Redmond, Washington — In fresh move that tempts existing users to upgrade to Windows 8, software behemoth Microsoft on Monday announced a promotion that upgrading to the next version of Windows just got cheaper: The software giant knocked down the upgrade price for users running Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7, later this year will be able to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $39.99, and throws in Media Center, too, Microsoft said.
However, the company did not revealed an official date for the commercial availability of Windows 8, but it is widely assumed that it will ship before the end of the year. Besides, the offer includes a free option to add Windows Media Center after the upgrade, according to Microsoft.
Accordingly, he dwindled away to stamp the price as “aggressive,” analyst Stephen Baker of the NPD Group acknowledged that it signaled Microsoft seriousness about getting as many people as possible to adopt the new operating system.
“It is even more significant this time around,” said Baker, referring to the gamble Microsoft is taking with the dramatically different Windows 8 and its new Metro user interface [UI].
Image Credit: (Microsoft)
That might not seem like too tremendous but Microsoft said previously that Media Center must be “acquired” via “Add Features to Windows 8” and that Media Center Pack pricing would be “in line with marginal costs.”
As a matter of fact, the software maker has yet to disclose the release date for Windows 8 or the regular prices of either Windows 8 Pro or the lower-cost Windows 8. But, this unimaginable deal kicks off when Microsoft launches Windows 8 later this year, and offers the most advanced retail version of the new OS, Windows 8 Pro, as the upgrade.
Moving forward, users in 131 different markets and in 37 languages will be able to purchase the upgrade package at windows.com when Redmond releases for Windows 8 Pro both online and at retail would predominantly runs through January 31, 2013. Also note that this upgrade must be done via download and Upgrade Assistant. A packaged DVD version of the upgrade at retail will cost $69.99.
Windows 8 Pro upgrade settings, files, apps migration details:
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From consumer Windows 7: Can bring everything, which includes Windows settings, personal files, and apps.
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From Windows Vista: Can bring Windows settings and personal files.
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From Windows XP: Can only bring along personal files.
“You will be able to create your own bootable USB or .ISO file, which can be burned onto a DVD for upgrade and backup purposes. If you prefer, you also have the option of purchasing a backup DVD for $15 plus shipping and handling,” Microsoft added.
“We set out to make it as easy as possible for everyone to upgrade to Windows 8,” Microsoft spokesman Brandon LeBlanc wrote in a blog post.
For more, check out PCMag’s slideshow.