Redmond (WA) – Microsoft confirmed that it will in fact give out a few free copies of Windows 7 Ultimate, when the software becomes available. However, the offer will be limited to a certain group of beta testers.
Users who are participating in the invitation-only Microsoft’s Windows Technical Beta Program can sign up for a “free final copy of Windows 7 Ultimate.” All other beta testers, users of the free public beta as well as users of the current release candidate will not receive a free copy. Microsoft did not say how many free copies may be given out to its Technical Beta Program users.
Microsoft will begin selling Windows 7 on October 22, just in time for the Christmas season. However, developers and certain customers, including Technet subscribers, will be able to download the operating system as early as August 6.
The full version of Windows 7 Ultimate will sell for $319.99. The upgrade will go for $219.99.
