On July 20, Microsoft will kick off its marketing blitz for Windows 10, ahead of the next-gen operating system"s official consumer launch on July 29. The company said today that it plans to "celebrate the role" that five million Windows Insiders have played in helping to develop the new OS, with special Windows 10 events in 13 cities around the world.
In the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, Microsoft Stores will also "celebrate the launch of Windows 10". Over 110 stores across these markets will engage in launch-day promotional activities - but some of them will also get extra treats.
The company says that "in select Microsoft Stores, fan celebrations will feature Windows 10 pop-up demo experiences, prizes, giveaways and more."
It adds that "Answer Desk services and free in-store workshops will help people learn how to get the most out of Windows 10." Alongside pop-up tips and built-in technical support in Windows 10, that should all help to make it a lot easier for users to transition to the new OS.
Still, it remains to be seen if the promise of special promotional events and giveaways will actually get people into Microsoft Stores on launch day. Many users will be getting Windows 10 as a free update via the web, and Microsoft confirmed today that you won"t actually be able to buy a PC with Windows 10 pre-installed when the OS launches.