Windows 8 Consumer Preview is almost here

After changing the logo and announcing an approximate date for a public beta, Microsoft has reportedly stopped compiling beta builds of their new OS and are said to be preparing to sign off on the Consumer Preview of Windows 8. The build (8250) is said to be unveiled at a special event that will take place at the same time as the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona next Wednesday at 9AM ET.

As has been reported more than once, the public beta will feature some radical changes including a new “Charms bar” which replaces the Start menu. The Consumer Preview is also said to come with preinstalled games such as Pinball and Solitaire, no real news there, however the preview version of the Windows Store will have games such as Angry Birds available.

Like other markets, the Windows Store will be open to developers who wish to publish their own apps, both for free or as paid apps with the price ranging between $1.49 to $999 per download. Microsoft will take a 30% stake in the sales but once passed $25,000 in sales, the stake will decrease to 20%.

Source: TweakTown