As we get closer to its October 26 launch date, the broad strokes of Windows 8 are now firmly in place with the final builds having been released to manufacturers, and attention is increasingly focused on getting answers to all of the many remaining questions that continue to loom over it.
One of the biggest questions is that of price. Microsoft has so far officially revealed only its promotional pricing, including a discounted upgrade offer for anyone buying a Windows 7 system between now and January 31 2013. We’ve known for some time that these customers will be able to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for just $14.99 - and registration for this is now open - but non-promotional pricing has remained elusive.
The Verge may have the answer though. A “source familiar with Microsoft’s plans” revealed to Tom Warren that Windows 8 Pro will launch with a $69.99 promotional price tag, before the cost leaps to $199 once the offer period expires at the end of January. Windows 8 users will also be able to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro – although it seems that this option will, confusingly, only be available through retail stores – at a discounted price of $69.99 until January, after which the price will jump to $99.99.
As previously reported, users of existing Windows versions will be able to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $39.99 online, although this fee is for a download only, and will not include physical media.
Source: The Verge