Microsoft has confirmed 29 July as the launch date for Windows 10, the new OS it believes will power 1bn devices in the coming years. The OS will be available as a free upgrade for the first year for existing Windows users.
However, if you don’t already own a Windows operating system like Windows 7 or Windows 8 or 8.1, moving to the new OS will cost you.
The new OS will cost US$119 for the Home edition and US$199 for the Pro edition for new users of the software. Moving from Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Pro will cost US$99.
Microsoft said the new OS is the result of the collaboration of more than 4m people around the world.
“Consumers will have one year from July 29, 2015 to take advantage of the free upgrade,” Microsoft said in a statement.
“Once a Windows device is upgraded to Windows 10, Microsoft will continue to keep it current for the supported lifetime of the device — at no cost. Those who want to be among the first in line for the free Windows 10 upgrade can reserve a free copy in the coming weeks.”
The new Windows 10 will come with a variety of features, such as a dynamic new Start button, built-in artificial intelligence in the form of Cortana, the successor to its Explorer browser called Edge, and the ability to work seamlessly across desktop, tablet and mobile devices.
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