Although the Redmond-based company would not confirm the program publicly, Microsoft did say "we"re working with partners on this." Free or upgrade versions of Windows Vista would be available to those purchasing a new computer after October 28, 2006. The coupon system would be valid through March 15, 2007 and the version of Vista would depend on which operating system was purchased. No details for Media Center Edition were given.
Details for prices include:
Widows XP Professional, XP Tablet PC Edition, and XP x64 Edition = a free upgrade
Windows XP Home = Vista Basic for $49 or Premium for $79
A boost to sales of Vista-ready computers is expected throughout the holiday season.