Windows 7 Upgrade Program for PC Makers Detailed

Article by George Norman (Cybersecurity Editor)

on 24 Jun 2009

Microsoft has already confirmed that it will allow user to upgrade from Vista to Windows 7 assuming that they cannot wait until October 22 when Windows 7 will become commercially available and decide to purchase a new PC right now. On top of that, thanks to a leaked BestBuy memo we already know that a technology guarantee program will reportedly debut on the 26th of June, allowing customers who purchase qualifying Vista OS to upgrade to Windows 7 when it becomes available.

“Some people may not be able to wait for Windows 7 to arrive before having to order a new PC (like parents who are sending their sons or daughters off to school who need of a PC to take with them). Fortunately, there is no need to wait. Soon, customers will be able to take advantage of the Windows 7 Upgrade Option Program. This program enables participating retailers and OEMs to offer a special deal to upgrade to Windows 7 for customers purchasing a qualifying PC,” explained Windows Communications Manger, Brandon LeBlanc, when Microsoft officially confirmed the release date of Windows 7.

Additional details have come to light into how Microsoft will enable OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and retailers to upgrade from Vista to Windows 7. The whole thing it will work like this:
- The PC manufacturer purchases a qualifying Windows Vista Upgrade Option SKU the Authorized Microsoft Distributor. This means the OEM has to purchase either Windows Vista Home Premium, Business or Ultimate and alongside the operating system it must have an Upgrade Option offer form.
- This qualifying Vista OS will be installed on the manufacturer’s PC.
- The PC, with the qualifying OS preinstalled will be sold during an eligibility period. The customer will receive the PC, the qualifying OS and the Upgrade Option offer form which he will use to order a Windows 7 upgrade at no additional cost.
- The customer will get the Windows 7 upgrade once the operating system is released.

In related news, it seems that Microsoft will allow users to downgrade from Windows 7 to Windows XP if they desire to do so (details here).


Latest News


Sony's 'Attack of the Blockbusters Sale' Slashes Prices in Half for a Ton of PS4 Games

17 Aug 2017

How Samsung's New T5 Compares to the Old T3 Portable SSD (Infographic)

17 Aug 2017

See all