Word on the web is that the Redmond-based software giant is considering selling Windows 7 on thumb drives (USB stick, flash drives). The Windows 7 thumb drives would make it easier for netbook owners to install the operating system on their machines – because as we all know, netbooks do not have CD or DVD drives.

“Microsoft is considering offering Windows 7 on a thumb drive to allow Netbook owners to more easily upgrade their machines, a source tells CNET News. The move, which is still under consideration, is one of several things Microsoft has looked at to try to make it convenient to upgrade machines that don't come with a CD or DVD drives,” explains CNET’s Ina Fried.

While this would be great news for anyone interested in getting a Windows 7 thumb drive instead of a DVD (and I’m not counting netbook owners only), the thing to keep in mind is that there is no official confirmation from Microsoft. The only thing we know for sure is that all Windows 7 versions will work on small notebook PCs as Microsoft likes to call netbooks. We also know when Windows 7 will become generally available and how much it will cost to upgrade or purchase a full packaged retail product.

Windows 7 will become generally available (GA) on: October 22nd, 2009.

Estimated retail prices for upgrade packaged retail product of Windows 7 in the US of A
Windows 7 Home Premium (Upgrade): $119.99
Windows 7 Professional (Upgrade): $199.99
Windows 7 Ultimate (Upgrade): $219.99

Estimated retail prices for full packaged retail product of Windows 7 in the US of A
Windows 7 Home Premium (Full): $199.99
Windows 7 Professional (Full): $299.99
Windows 7 Ultimate (Full): $319.99

If you live in the USA, Canada, Japan, UK, France and Germany, you can get Windows 7 Home Premium or Windows 7 Profession at half price (limited time offer – details here).
If you have purchased a PC with a qualifying Vista version preinstalled on it, you can upgrade to Windows 7 for free (details here).