Microsoft has pulled forward the start of its free Windows 7 upgrade programme so customers buying a new PC from today can upgrade to the new operating system for free. The company says anyone who buys a PC from a participating manufacturer or retailer, and which runs Windows Vista Home Premium, Business or Ultimate, will receive an upgrade to Windows 7 "at little or no cost".
Microsoft says the upgrade offer will vary by PC manufacturer and retailer ( for example, a small fee for shipping and handling may be charged).
New Zealand pricing of Windows 7 is yet to be confirmed.
HP, meanwhile, says it will offer the OS on consumer and business PCs from local launch on 22 October, participating in the Upgrade Option programme. Customers who buy HP PCs from June 26 may be eligible for the upgrade, HP says.