Microsoft to Unveil Windows 8 Consumer Preview in Spain on Feb. 29

Microsoft is likely to unveil the Windows 8 Consumer Preview at a special event during the Mobile World Congress trade show in Barcelona, Spain on Feb. 29, 2012.

The Redmond software giant began seeding invites for its exclusive event but there were virtually no details beyond the invite.

It is expected that Microsoft will open Windows 8 downloads to consumers who will be able to install and preview the new OS on current hardware.

The Consumer Preview should also represent the first major update since Microsoft delivered the Developer’s Preview at its Build conference in September 2011. Response to this anticipated update should be big: millions downloaded the Developers Preview last fall.