Today we're announcing something you've all been waiting for -- information on the upgrade process for those of you who are planning to buy a new PC in the coming months but prior to the Windows Vista launch. Well, now you can have both (and Office to boot)!
Here's the scoop:
PCs loaded with Windows XP or pre-installed with 2003 Microsoft Office software can be upgraded via the Express Upgrade to Windows Vista and Microsoft Office Technology Guarantee program. Express Upgrade will be available to consumers and small businesses from 26 Oct 2006 through 15 March 2007.
Check out the Express Upgrade site for details.
Windows Vista
Windows Vista upgrades may be offered for free or at a discounted price (shipping and handling charges may also apply), so it pays to check with the particular PC manufacturer for details specific to their offer.
Consider looking for "Windows Vista Capable" PCs designated as "Premium Ready," as these PCs are designed to deliver the core Windows Vista experience. PCs carrying only the "Windows Vista Capable" logo may be eligible for the program, but the offer may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Go here for more information about Windows Vista Capable and Premium Ready PCs.
If you purchase a PC running Windows XP this holday, you should remember to take into account the upgrade path of the SKU you purchase. In the US, the upgrade path looks like this (but will vary by region):
Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 --> Windows Vista Home Premium (nominal fee)
Windows XP Professional --> Windows Vista Business (nominal fee)
Windows XP Tablet PC Edition --> Windows Vista Business (nominal fee)
Windows XP Professional x64 Edition --> Windows Vista Business 64 (nominal fee)
Meanwhile, upgrades of this type:
Windows XP Home Edition --> Windows Vista Home Basic
Windows XP Home Edition --> Windows Vista Home Premium
... are both available at 50% discount from the boxed product upgrade price, plus shipping and handling.
Office
You can upgrade to the comparable edition of 2007 Microsoft Office when you purchase a PC pre-installed with qualifying Microsoft Office 2003 software. More details are at the Express Upgrade site.
Boxed Product (FPP)
Similar programs are available region-by-region for upgrading both Microsoft Office 2003 and Windows XP FPP to Windows Vista and 2007 Microsoft Office; your local retailer will have the particulars.
So with this program, you can buy a PC with Windows XP now and upgrade it to Windows Vista once we've launched commercially. How's that for making your purchasing decision a little easier?