BioWare confirmed that all those keen on Mass Effect 3 are going to get a playable a  pre-release demo of the game in January 2012. Expect the demo to feature both single-player and multiplayer portions.

Here's the scoop, taken from BioWare's officail FAQ (via BioWare Social Network):

What are the details of the Mass Effect 3 pre-release demo?

• The Mass Effect 3 prerelease demo will launch in January 2012 (exact date TBA).
• The demo will include both single-player and multi-player sections.
• The demo will be released in all regions where the game is

How can I get early access to the multi-player portion of the Mass Effect 3 demo coming in January 2012?

• Owners of Battlefield 3, on any platform, who activate their Online Pass will automatically be granted early access to the multiplayer portion of the Mass Effect 3 demo. There is no need to enter any other codes, the early access will be applied to the EA Account associated with the Online Pass.
• This applies to all regions where the demo is released (to be announced)
• The exact date of the demo launch will be announced in late November
• There will be another program whereby players and fans of the Mass Effect franchise can unlock this early access (with no purchase necessary) ' this will also be announced in late November or early December.
• There will also be a tool posted on www.masseffect.com allowing players to check if their EA account has been granted the early access.
• The length of the early access period is TBA.
• The single-player section of the demo will be available to all players on day one of the demo launch.

The full, retail edition of Mass Effect 3 launches on March 6, 2012.