We just heard from the folks at Microsoft on its Windows 7 Upgrade Option Program, availability and pricing offer for Asia.
According to the software giant, from June 26, 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. The upgrade offer will vary by PC manufacturer and retailer (a small fee for shipping and handling may be charged). Consumers should check with manufacturers and retailers for specific details.
The Windows 7 Upgrade Option program will be available until January 31, 2010 and the offer is redeemable until the end of February 2010.
PC manufacturers will start shipping Windows 7 PCs in all languages starting from October 22. For the full package product, Microsoft will make the first 14 languages including English, Spanish, Japanese, German, French, Italian, Dutch, Russian, Polish, Brazilian Portuguese, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese & Traditional Chinese (HK) available on October 22 and all other languages (including Thai) available on October 31.
Existing Windows customers can purchase Windows 7 Home Premium (Upgrade) at an estimated retail price of US$119.99. The full version of Windows 7 Home Premium (Full) is available at an estimated retail price of US$199.99.