Poll: Will Microsoft Windows 8 Be a Winner?

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Microsoft(MSFT) has confirmed that its eagerly-anticipated Windows 8 operating system will be generally available in October, marking a significant milestone for the tech giant.

Seen as a driver of top-line growth, Windows 8 is expected to be a positive catalyst for financial results toward the end of the year.

Critics, however, have warned that Windows 8 will not be able to halt Apple's(APPL) growing popularity with consumers.

Key Windows 8 features include a new user interface with touchscreen capabilities, Xbox Live integration and more efficient power usage. A version of Windows 8 called Windows RT will support chips designed by ARM(ARMH) .