Microsoft Vista upgrade for home and small business PC’s

Microsoft recently announced the start of the Windows 7 Upgrade Option program which will enable consumers and small businesses to receive Windows 7 when they purchase a qualifying Windows Vista PC starting June 26, 2009.

“There is a lot of excitement for Windows 7 in the marketplace today. However, many consumers need a new Windows PC for school, work or home before October 22,” said Brad Brooks, corporate vice president, Windows consumer marketing at Microsoft. “So starting June 26th, any customer who buys a PC from a participating computer maker or retailer with Windows Vista Home Premium, Business or Ultimate will also receive an upgrade to the corresponding version of Window 7 at little or no cost.”

In association with the Windows 7 Upgrade Option program, Microsoft will defer approximately 50% of the revenue from eligible sales under the program to the program fulfilment date or the program’s expiration. For the fourth quarter fiscal year 2009, Microsoft will defer an estimated $200 to $300 million of revenue.

Under the Windows 7 Upgrade Option program, the following Windows Vista versions will correspond to the following Windows 7 upgrade equivalents:

The Windows 7 licenses will be provided to computer manufacturers at no charge from Microsoft; some manufacturers may require some modest payment for costs such as shipping and handling.

This program is generally available through January 31, 2010 from computer manufacturers and participating retail partners selling qualifying editions of Windows Vista. Customers should check with computer manufacturers and retailers for more information on specific program details.

Retail packaged Windows Vista software products may also qualify for an upgrade to the equivalent Windows 7 product with participating retailers in participating markets.

The Windows 7 licenses may be offered for free or at a discounted price to qualifying customers when the Windows 7 product becomes available in the market.