We know that Windows 11 is coming, but Microsoft has been decidedly tight-lipped about the exact release date. However, it appears that Intel's leak has narrowed down that release date.

Windows Latest has discovered some Intel drivers called "Windows 11 -64 - October 2021 Update - version 21H2". This is much more specific than the generic "late 2021." Microsoft is telling everyone.

The driver names were found in the release notes for Intel's latest GPU drivers. We don't know the exact date, but the clear reference to Windows 11 in October 2021 suggests that this may be the month that Microsoft's next operating system begins its rollout.

It also helps that Microsoft has a habit of naming Windows updates based on when they arrive; "21H2" means the update is scheduled for late 2021, and "October" is fairly straightforward.

There have already been several rumors that Windows 11 will arrive in October. To be really specific, October 20, which is the date that Microsoft's announcement presentation hinted at; even Walmart's website listed "Free Upgrade to Windows October 2021" on some of its laptop listings.

Of course, the release of Windows 11 will likely be phased in, and not everyone will be able to update to the software on day one. Microsoft has already confirmed that the operating system will be available "over several months" and that the rollout of Windows 10 upgrades will not begin until early 2022.

In other words, Windows 11 may be released in October, but you'll have to wait to get it, unless you buy a Windows 11 laptop with the OS already installed.

Of course, if you can't wait for the stable release, you can install the Windows 11 beta version. If your PC has compatible hardware, it is available now. If that appeals to you, be sure to check out our guide on how to install Windows 11 Insider Preview.