Microsoft offers free upgrade from Vista to Windows 7

by Stevie Smith - Jun 26 2009, 15:30

Looking to kill two consumer birds with one stone, Microsoft Corp. has announced the Windows 7 Upgrade Option Program, a promotional offer that might inspire more people to embrace its much-maligned Vista operating system (OS) while increasing exposure for its upcoming Windows 7 platform. $Windows 7... it\'s Windows, but not as we know it. Image: Fillmore/Flickr.$

Windows 7... it\'s Windows, but not as we know it. Image: Fillmore/Flickr.

Specifically, Redmond-based Microsoft has revealed that customers willing to purchase new PC hardware equipped with Premium, Business or Ultimate editions of Vista ahead of the October launch of Windows 7 will be eligible for free upgrade access to the latest iteration of the software giant’s OS.And, in order to help place focus on its new OS – which some have labelled as Vista the way it should have been from the outset – Microsoft will also open Windows 7 pre-orders on July 26 with accompanying Home Premium upgrades priced at $49 USD and Professional upgrades priced at $99 USD. According to Microsoft, demand will likely see the pre-order promotion completely sold out within a matter of weeks.Built on the structural roots put down by Vista, and largely thought to be a significant step up in terms of system boot speed, reduced UAC intrusion, and generally improved reliability and operation, Windows 7 will be officially unleashed upon the world on October 22.Microsoft’s free shift to Windows 7 via the Upgrade Option Program will run through to January 31 of 2010 and will be redeemable until the end of February.The Tech Herald: Microsoft offers more details about Windows 7The Tech Herald: Leaked copies of Windows 7 shipping with Trojan Want regular updates from The Tech Herald? Follow us on Twitter.Interested in a more interactive TTH? Join our Facebook Group.

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