In an atempt to prevent a slowdown in PC sales in the months immediately before the Vista launch when consumers typically delay new computer purchases in anticipation of major operating system revisions, Microsoft will be offering consumers and small businesses that purchase new Windows Vista Capable personal computers, free or discounted upgrades to Windows Vista and the forthcoming Microsoft Office 2007 from 26 October 2006 through 15 March 2007.

Both software applications are slated for general availability next January.

For all holiday purchases of machines loaded with Windows XP, Microsoft recommends that buyers consider Windows Vista Capable PCs that are designated Premium Ready, and specifically such PCs loaded with Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Tablet PC Edition or Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. PCs that are designated as Premium Ready can deliver the core Windows Vista experiences, plus features such as the Windows Aero™ user experience and Media Center. For more information about what version of Windows Vista is right for them, buyers can visit http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready/capable.mspx.

A number of computer manufacturers worldwide have confirmed plans to participate in the Express Upgrade to Windows Vista program. PCs carrying the Windows Vista Capable logo may be eligible for the program, but upgrade offers will vary among PC makers. The upgrade to Windows Vista may be offered for free or at a discounted price, and customers should check with PC makers for their specific offers. Consumers can also visit http://www.windowsvista.com/expressupgrade for more information.

Microsoft will be working with participating smaller PC makers, known as system builders, to provide customers with upgrade discount coupons for Windows Vista with the purchase of a qualifying Windows Vista Capable PC. The offer will vary by region, but in the U.S. upgrades from Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 to Windows Vista Home Premium, and upgrades from Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Tablet PC Edition and Windows XP Professional x64 Edition to Windows Vista Business and Windows Vista Business 64, will be offered for a nominal fee. Upgrades from Windows XP Home Edition to Windows Vista Home Basic and to Windows Vista Home Premium will be offered at a 50 percent discount from the boxed product upgrade price, plus the cost of shipping and handling.

Microsoft will also enable customers to upgrade to comparable editions of the 2007 Microsoft Office release when they purchase PCs pre-installed with qualifying Microsoft Office 2003 software. For Microsoft Office purchases made through participating computer manufacturers in qualifying locations, customers will receive upgrades to comparable 2007 Microsoft Office release products for the cost of shipping and handling when the product becomes available. For purchases of Microsoft Office through a system builder, customers will need to provide valid proof of purchase. Customers in North America will receive a coupon with the purchase that must also be submitted.