Microsoft disclosed its plans to announce a beta version of its latest Windows operating system later this month.

The US technology giant sent out invitations to a “Windows Consumer Preview” event which is going to be held on February 29 at a hotel in Barcelona at the time of Mobile World Congress assembling in that city.

Microsoft also guaranteed to disclose more information regarding “Windows Consumer Preview” event closer to the end of this month.

The launch of Windows 8 beta version to the public is anticipated to be affiliated by the opening of a ” Windows app store” accumulated with mini-programs accommodated for the next-generation OS.

In December last year, Microsoft started addressing developers for a February opening of its first ever Windows Store dedicated to give prominence to third-party applications discovered for computers powered by the Redmond, Washington-based software firm.

Microsoft will take on Google and Apple in the flourishing market of fun or functional applications developed for computers, tablets and smartphones.