The end of October is an incredibly busy month for the tech sector, with rival platforms including Apple, Google and Microsoft launching competing services to boost their respective ecosystems.

For months we’ve known that Microsoft will be officially launching Windows 8 next week.  Apple, on the other hand, just recently confirmed a Oct. 23 event, though rumors have been milling for weeks, while Google surprised everyone with their news of an event just days after Apple’s.

So what are we to expect from these three giants?  Here are what we know and assume for the events:

Microsoft

Microsoft sent out invites for an event that will begin at 10 AM EDT on October 25 in New York, which will stretch to midnight for the big reveal of the Windows 8 platform and possibly the Surface RT and Surface Pro, among other Windows 8-based hybrids and tablets from various partner manufacturers.  Some sources say that the Surface tablets will be immediately available, going on sale October 26 along with the other Windows 8-based tablets, hybrids and PCs.

Apple

The fruity company recently sent invites for an event on October 23, a couple of days before Microsoft’s event.  As usual, Apple kept the invite simple, a colorful palette above with the top of the Apple logo clearly visible and the “We’ve got a little more to show you,” one-liner that tickles one’s curiosity.

The word “little” has got everybody saying, “I knew it!  It’s an iPad Mini!”  Maybe it is, or maybe it just pertains to the new version of the Mac Mini.  The colorful palette on the invite also made me think that the iPad Mini will come in various colors just like the new generation of the iPod Touch.  The event is scheduled for October 23 at 10 a.m. PT in San Jose’s historic downtown California Theater.

Google

The search giant sent out invites for an event on October 29, days after the Apple and Microsoft events.  According to reports, Google will be unveiling the new Nexus smartphone said to be from LG, not Samsung.  The invitation looks simple with the New York City skyline featured at the background as the event will be held in NYC, then there appears to be a search bar complete with the mic icon where the words “The playground is open,” was placed.  Written below is the details of the event like the time it will start which will be at 10 AM Eastern time but guest are informed that doors of the venue will open at 9:15 AM.  Also, it is an Android event which is probably hinting at the unveiling of a new Nexus device.

So far, that’s what we know about the three major events.  We’ll keep you guys posted if anything changes and of course, when the big reveal happens.

For more speculation on Google’s event in particular, see the video below.