Windows 10 is a Free Upgrade for Windows 7 and Up

Microsoft just held an event a couple of days ago announcing new products and services. One of the surprised announcements was that Terry Myerson, Microsoft's executive vice president of operating systems said that existing Windows and Windows Phone users will have a free upgrade to the upcoming Windows 10 OS once it becomes available.

Microsoft said that existing users with Windows 7 up to Windows 8.1 and mobile users with Windows Phone 8.1 are the ones who are eligible for the free update. The company said that the users can take advantage of the free upgrade within the first year after the official launch and then after that first year, fees will be applied to whoever would like to switch to the Windows 10.

At first I was confused as some of the blogs I have read seem to say that the free upgrade is only available on the first year and then after that there would be a monthly or yearly fee. But according to TheNextWeb's post that is not the case.  As long as the upgrade is made within the first year from release date, that will be free of charge for the rest of the device's life. So users have to make sure they do it within the window period.

Now the next questions I had was, how much is the Windows 10 going to be for after the first year and when it will be rolled out? Well, unfortunately Microsoft hasn't announced either of the answers yet.

Now is there a catch to this treat? Below is what it is said on the Windows 10 webpage. You may also visit the website and "Sign up with your email today, and we will send you more information about Windows 10 and the upgrade offer in the coming months." the page said.

The fine print says...

*It is our intent that most of these devices will qualify, but some hardware/software requirements apply and feature availability may vary by device. Devices must be connected to the internet and have Windows Update enabled. ISP fees may apply. Windows 7 SP1 and Windows 8.1 Update required. Some editions are excluded: Windows 7 Enterprise, Windows 8/8.1 Enterprise, and Windows RT/RT 8.1. Active Software Assurance customers in volume licensing have the benefit to upgrade to Windows 10 Enterprise outside of this offer. We will be sharing more information and additional offer terms in coming months.

 Are you excited about the update and are you going to take the free Windows 10 upgrade as well? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.