Sometimes it does pay to own a licensed copy of Windows OS. Microsoft announced that XP, VISTA and Windows 7 users will be able to upgrade to the latest Windows 8 OS for just $39.99.

Microsoft will be offering this upgrade for a minimal cost on promotional basis which will be valid up to Jan 31st 2013. Now before you get excited about it, do note that Microsoft will not be sending you any CD’s instead the upgrade will be available via downloads only but in case you need a backup disk you will need to pay an extra $15 for the same.

In 2011 Microsoft released the developer preview and later this year the Windows 8 consumer preview. The new OS features the fluid touch interface, there is a performance improvement and apps load and work faster than before. The same OS seamlessly works on any device that supports it, like the Tablet or a Desktop PC. The Windows 8 also comes with the latest IE 10 browser and the Metro user interface.

Windows 8 System Requirements

  • Minimum 1 GHz processor.
  • Graphics card that supports DirectX 9 or higher.
  • For 64 Bit OS you need at least 2 GB RAM and for 32 Bit a minimum of 1 GB.
  • Minimum HDD storage of about 16GB for 32bit and 20 GB for 64 bit.

Upgrade to windows 8 pro

If you already own a licensed windows copy and you’re PC / laptop satisfies the minimum tech requirements, you should upgrade to Windows 8 pro edition. This offer will be for a limited period only – up to 31st Jan 2013.

The offer will be made available in 131 countries and you will find it listed on the Windows website. For now you will have to wait for the Windows 8 launch which may happen within few months (probably in October).

By Rajeev Rana

Founder and Chief Editor - gogi.in