Microsoft just laid out the Windows 7 pricing grid for us, and heres the big takeaway: Vista and XP users will need to pony up $119.99, $199.99, or $219.99 on October 22 to score their Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate upgrade, and those of you who want a full retail disc will need to roll up with $199.99, $299.99, or $319.99 respectively. Its not quite that simple, though: starting tomorrow, June 26, youll be able to pre-order upgrades at much cheaper prices -- $49.99 for Home Premium and $99.99 for Professional, just as wed heard -- but pre-orders will be strictly limited in number and are expected to sell out quickly. Obviously wed prefer it if final pricing was $49 and $99 for everyone, but its not a bad start, especially since participating manufacturers will be offering cheap / free upgrades to 7 on new computers sold after tomorrow with Vista as well.Oh, and dont you worry about scoring a place in line, because were here to help: later today well be giving away 100 codes that guarantee a pre-order spot at the discounted prices, and youll be able to share the code with two friends. Youll have to act fast, though -- the codes will only be valid for 48 hours. Keep your eyes peeled for our recession antidote post around noon EST, and get your clicky-fingers ready.
Update: Looks lke weve got our first participating manufacturer -- HP machines sold after tomorrow will receive free upgrades to 7, and were hearing Sony will announce a similar offer soon. Well be keeping a full list of announcements as the day goes on, check back later for more.
