System builders praised Microsoft's decision to offer an Express Upgrade coupon that gives buyers of Windows XP-based PCs a free or discounted upgrade to Windows Vista through March 15.
As part of the deal, designed to drive PC sales though the holiday season, Microsoft plans to include coupons with new Windows XP SKUs that give buyers a free pass to the next-generation operating system when it ships in the first quarter of 2007, industry sources said.
The Windows Vista Technology Upgrade Program runs from Oct. 26, 2006, through March 15, 2007. Distributors are expected to have the new Windows XP SKUs in house for system builders by Oct. 15.
|