In anticipation of the big October launch of Microsoft Windows 7, two new announcements regarding pricing have been made – one a good deal, the other, not so much…
The first offer is called Family Pack, which includes Windows 7 Home Premium installation media and a license key that can be activated on three PCs in a single household. This is being sold for an estimated retail price of $150. Upside is the multiple licenses for this cost – families nowadays are likely to have more than one computer per household, good to see Microsoft recognizing that. The downside? Its available only “while supplies last” which means that you need to fight tooth and nail to get a hold of your family pack! They really should offer this for the long-term if you ask me…
The second announcement is all about upgrades. Microsoft is offering a Windows Anytime Upgrade program which allows Windows users to buy a new PC with one edition of Windows 7 installed with the ability to upgrade later. This is a step in the right direction for those looking to upgrade, but are apprehensive about doing it so soon after the Windows 7 launch. The pricing is fairly straightforward (see the below chart posted by Ed Bott at ZDnet). We definitely think the Anytime Upgrade is a great way to go to give consumers and enterprise customers more choice and freedom for upgrading. It also prevents millions from being forced Beta testers for Microsoft. Does this mean Microsoft has learned its lesson from the disastrous Vista launch?
What do you think? We would love to hear about your plans and how they involve Windows 7!
|
Upgrade to -> |
Home Premium |
Professional |
Ultimate |
|
Starter |
$80 |
$115 |
$165 |
|
Home Basic |
$80 |
– |
$165 |
|
Home Premium |
– |
$90 |
$140 |
|
Professional |
– |
– |
$130 |