Microsoft promotion coupon upgrade to Vista

Since this week, Microsoft will begin a promotional coupon program for computer users who want to upgrade to the Vista operating system in an effort to prevent PC sales from falling in the 2006 Christmas season.

Microsoft said the upgrade program will start October 26 for both Windows Vista and the Office office suite. Under the program, customers who buy Windows XP-based computers can still upgrade to Vista when the operating system is officially released in early 2007. A similar program applies to Office 2007.

Window effect in Windows Vista ( Source: fayerwayer )

The vast majority of major PC vendors, including HP and Dell, will participate in this upgrade program, although promotion policies may vary between brands. " The upgrade may be completely free or cheap, depending on the manufacturer, " Microsoft said.

" There is no reason for you not to buy a new computer this Christmas season, because you know what you will get upgraded, " said Brad Brooks, general manager of Windows marketing.

Vista is the first important operating system after Windows XP for the past 5 years. According to research firm IDC, Vista will be installed on over 100 million computers worldwide.

Mr. Brooks estimates that 80-85% of the computers sold during the Christmas season this year are within the framework of the upgrade program. Just buy a "Windows Vista Capable" computer, users will receive an upgrade to Vista, whether they buy at a retail store or directly from the manufacturer.

After Windows Vista is released to the market, consumers will receive a DVD containing the operating system inside.

Windows and Office now account for more than half of Microsoft's total revenue and nearly all of the giant's profit. The upgrade program will last until March 15 next year.

Trong Cam