Microsoft announced on Tuesday a plan to give holiday-season computer buyers discounts on upgrades to its Vista operating system and new-generation Microsoft Office suite due out next year.
The Redmond, Washington, software giant’s aim was to overcome reservations of shoppers inclined to strip their year-end gift lists of products based on soon-to-be outdated Microsoft software.
Microsoft missed the original delivery date this year for Vista, saying it needed more time to refine it.
Microsoft said it was collaborating with hardware makers to provide coupons guaranteeing holiday-season computer buyers ”Express Upgrade” to Vista and Microsoft Office 2007.
The offer would apply to Windows Vista Capable personal computers that came installed with Windows XP or 2003 Microsoft Office.
”Our customers can shop for a new PC with confidence this holiday season because of the Express Upgrade to Windows Vista and Office Technology Guarantee programs,” Microsoft vice-president Mike Sievert said in a release.
”These programs ensure people will have a great experience with their Windows XP-based PCs today, and an even better one when Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office release become available.”
Upgrades would be offered free of charge or at discounted prices depending on computer manufacturer, according to Microsoft. – Sapa-AFP