Microsoft's major announcement is only hours away and rumors have reached an all time high. Speculation over Barnes & Noble's involvement in Microsoft's rumored tablet introduction has forced the company to reveal it is not part of the announcements. Speaking to Benzinga, a Barnes & Noble spokesperson ruled the company out of today's announcements.

We have reached out to Barnes & Noble for comment and will update you accordingly.

Update: A Barnes & Noble spokesperson has confirmed to The Verge that the company is not part of Microsoft's announcement, stating "we are not part of their announcement."