Windows 10 consumer preview coming 21 January

Microsoft will hold a press event at its Redmond headquarters on 21 January where it will reveal more details about Windows 10, and launch a consumer-focused preview.

Windows 10 is set to be the biggest overhaul to Microsoft's market-dominating software ever, with the operating system working across a vast range of devices, from smartphones and tablets to laptops, desktops, and severs.

The company announced Windows 10 at the end of September, launching a Technical Preview alongside it which is aimed at "PC experts comfortable downloading unfinished software" such as IT managers, enthusiasts and early adopters.

Now the company has announced that it will hold a media event - entitled Windows 10: The Next Chapter - at its Redmond headquarters on 21 January where it is expected to give much more detail on the consumer version of Windows 10, potentially show Windows 10 working on touchscreen devices, and launch a consumer-focused preview.

"You'll hear directly from senior leaders from the Operating Systems Group including Terry Myerson, Joe Belfiore and Phil Spencer who will talk about the Windows 10 consumer experience," Brandon LeBlanc said on the Blogging Windows website.

Microsoft has not given a specific launch date for the final version of Windows 10, simply saying that it will be launched at some point in 2015, likely towards the end of the year.

Following the event on 21 January, the company will reveal more details aimed at developers at its annual Build conference which will be held at the end of April 2015.

The event will be live-streamed online allowing everyone to follow the announcements.