Microsoft Announces Vista Purchase Options
Microsoft elaborated on its purchase options for the release of Windows Vista, to be released publicly in less than two weeks. Among the options are online upgrades to higher tiers, a family discount, or online purchase and direct download via Windows Marketplace.
"With the consumer launch of Windows Vista so close, we're excited to announce three new ways to make the purchase and upgrade experience easier than ever," said Brad Brooks, general manager of Windows Client Marketing at Microsoft.
The first option will allow those with any version of Windows Vista to immediately upgrade to a higher-tier via a simple online transaction using the Windows Vista DVD. Once it is completed, the user will gain immediate access to the new features of that tier.
Those who purchase a retail boxed copy of Windows Vista Ultimate will be allowed to upgrade two of their home PCs from Basic to Premium for $49.99 each. This program is only available for a limited time and would end on June 30, but Microsoft left open the possibly of extending the program depending on its success. The company will evaluate the offering, and make a decision whether or not to continue or modify the program at a later date, it said in a statement.
Finally, in what is possibly the biggest change for Microsoft, the operating system itself will be made available January 30 for direct purchase and download from the Windows Marketplace. Windows Vista Home Basic, Home Premium, Business and Ultimate will be made available.
In addition, the company will make three versions of Office 2007 available: Standard, Professional, and Home and Student.