Ahead of the launch of its next operating system Windows 8, Microsoft has launched a new global offer for users of machines running XP, Windows Vista or Windows to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for US$39.99.
In a blog post, Microsoft revealed that the offer, available to users in 131 markets, qualifies users of these operating systems to download Windows 8 Pro from Windows.com.
Users will also be given the option to add Media Center for free through the “add features” option within Windows 8 Pro after their upgrade.
A Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant allows users to upgrade from any consumer edition of Windows 7 and bring all their settings, personal files and apps.
Users upgrading from Vista will be able to import their settings and files while users upgrading from XP will only be able to bring their personal files.
The US$39.99 price per download of the new OS contrasts sharply with the US$69.99 for a physical in-store copy of the OS during the offer which runs to 31 January 2013.
