Microsoft had previously announced an upgrade offer for purchasers of new PCs. They will be able to upgrade to Window 8 for $15 if their purchase is between June 2nd, 2012 and January 31st, 2013. Yesterday, Microsoft announced a broader upgrade program for everybody else.
With the release of Windows 8, if your PC is running Windows XP, Vista, or 7, you will be able to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $39.99 by downloading it through Windows.com. Another benefit will be the ability to install Windows Media Center at no additional cost through Windows 8 “Add Features”.
The Upgrade Assistant will walk individuals through the update process to inform you of what software is compatible and how features might differ.
Upgrades from the various Windows versions will affect how much can be brought along from just files in XP to files, applications, and Windows Settings in Windows 7 and everything but the applications if you’re upgrading from Vista. You can also format the hard drive to start from scratch, but you’ll need to do this within the Windows 8 Setup utility so it can first verify your previous Windows install. The download from Windows 8 upgrade assistant will allow you to create a bootable USB or a DVD media. You can also purchase a backup DVD for $15.
If you want to shop at the store, you can buy the Windows 8 pro upgrade packaged DVD for $70. This offer will run from the general release date through January 31st, 2013. Windows 8 will also be available as a regular purchase for non-upgrades as well.
The low price and timing on the promotion will certainly help drive adoption of the new OS. Many enterprises have the practice of waiting for the first service pack. I know my organization is waiting to get more hands-on with it.
As for myself, I will probably get Windows 8 on a new ultrabook one of these days but won’t upgrade my PCs until they are replaced. Of course, it depends if you believe Windows 8 will be a good tick or a not-so-good tick for Microsoft. I think I can see a pattern here and if Microsoft is on track to release a new version of Windows every 2 years now, I should be able to hold out until Windows 9. Will you upgrade and take advantage of this promotion?
