Microsoft has previously announced that Windows 8.1 will be a free upgrade for anyone running Windows 8. This still holds true, and the company says that the free update will be available via an easy download from the Windows Store starting from October 18th.
Details 0n how much Windows 8.1 will cost
Today, the company revealed more details on how much Windows 8.1 will cost—for new users as well as for those running on Windows. For those who’re running on older version of Windows, such as Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, Windows 8.1 will cost $119.99. Windows 8.1 Pro will cost $199.99. These prices are for download via Windows.com or as a retail-packed DVD. Microsoft says that these prices are similar to what the company charges for the Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro upgrades.
For those who have purchased a device that comes with Windows 8.1 and want to get the Windows 8.1 Pro pack, such users will need to shell out an additional $99.99 to unlock all features of Pro as well as Windows Media Center. If you’re already on Windows 8.1 Pro, then you can buy Windows Media Center for $9.99.
The biggest change that’s coming this time from Microsoft is that you’re getting a full version of Windows 8.1. This means that there’s no requirement for users to run a previous version of Windows in order to install Windows 8.1. Currently, Windows 8, which is available in retail and online is simply an “upgrade version”, and not a full version, unlike Windows 8.1 will be. Microsoft says that they are making this change to give “more flexibility for customers in specific technical scenarios.”
Microsoft has also outlined how non-Windows 8 users will be upgrading to Windows 8.1 using the retail DVD and download software:
Windows 7: Consumers can upgrade a Windows 7 PC which will bring along all their files, but will require them to reinstall desktop apps including Microsoft Office.
Windows XP & Windows Vista: Windows 8.1 is not designed for installation on devices running Windows XP or Windows Vista. Although not designed or recommended for devices running Windows XP or Windows Vista, consumers still wanting to upgrade from Windows XP or Windows Vista should buy the retail DVD instead of using the download and boot from the DVD to do a clean install of Windows 8.1. Note: files, settings and programs will not transfer – Consumers will need to back up their files and settings, perform clean installation, and then reinstall their files, settings and programs.
Windows 8.1 is believed to what Windows 8 should have been. But let’s hope that Microsoft has learned from its mistakes and improved on them. The company claims that they’ve listened to user’s feedback and complaints.
As usual, we’ll update you with more news as we near the official release date. Stay tuned!
