Infotech Lead India: Microsoft announced the availability of its Windows 8 operating system for its customers in India.
From October 26, Microsoft users in India and abroad can access the latest Microsoft OS on a range of Windows 8 PCs, ultrabooks, tablets and hybrid devices.
Windows 8 PCs and tablets will be available in India from 14 manufacturers – Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, HCL, HP, Lenovo, RP Infosystems, Sai Info System, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, Wipro and Zenith Computers.
In India, over 250 Windows 8 enabled devices, including 23 completely new SKUs of Windows 8 PCs will be available across 100 cities and more than 2500 retail stores.
Besides new Windows 8 devices, consumers can also upgrade their existing PCs to Windows 8.
Those who have bought Windows 7 PCs running Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 since June 2, 2012 can buy Windows 8 Pro for Rs 699.
The offer applies to Windows 7 PCs sold until January 31, and the upgrade must be claimed by February 28.
Consumers, who bought Windows PCs before June 2, can download Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of Rs 1,999. Those who prefer buying a DVD to upgrade will have to pay Rs 3,499.
Windows 8 will be available in two versions at retail – Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro. For business users, Windows 8 Enterprise offers new features like Windows To Go, DirectAccess, and BranchCache, as well as security with features including BitLocker and AppLocker.
Windows 8 is cloud-connected so users can access data on any other Windows 8 PC. Microsoft says Windows 8 to be seamlessly synced across multiple devices. Windows 8 also comes with a new browser – Internet Explorer 10, according to a report in Times of India.
Microsoft plans to continue providing technical support for Windows 7 until January 14, 2020.
