Windows Upgrade Option Coupons Explained, Starting Soon

Why would you buy a computer right now and get a nasty version of Vista or XP when you know Windows 7 is coming out in just a few months? If it were me, I'd wait and get the latest and greatest OS, and that's what PC makers are afraid of. In a way to keep PC sales up through the months preceding the Windows 7 launch, several PC makers and Microsoft will be offering coupons allowing you to upgrade to Windows 7 if you buy now and are stuck with an outdated OS. Details after the jump.



Microsoft has not yet announced a date for when its Windows Upgrade Option program will begin. According to some Tawainese PC makers, the upgrade won't be completely free ... and the coupon may only apply to those who buy Vista Home Premium, Vista Ultimate or Vista Business between June 26 and October 22. It will be between $9 and $15 per PC to include the upgrade coupon.

However, word on the street is that there won't be a coupon available for those who buy anything with XP during these months before Windows 7 - that means netbook sales could take a huge dive. So, until Microsoft offers an option for a decent-priced upgrade from XP, we say, don't buy a netbook until after October 22. At least if you get Windows 7 on your netbook and don't like it, you can downgrade from there to XP and come out on top without ever wondering if you made a mistake buying your netbook on October 21.

For more on the latest tech news, check out these other blog posts:

Natal Rumor: Micrsoft to Release Natal-based Xbox in 2010

Blockbuster to Sell $10 Unlimited Rental Weeks this Summer

Order for 11-inch Netbook Screen Confirms Dell Argos Rumor?

Is This the LCD Screen of the Rumored Nikon D300s DSLR?