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| Windows 10 | The new Windows 7 |
Update: Microsoft's Windows 10 is the new Windows 7
This is the dramatic climax to what Microsoft set out to do for
computers over four years ago - Windows 10. The Redmond, Wash based
firm's first attempt to smooth over the inevitable collision of laptops
and tablets; Windows 8, ended in what's widely regarded as a flop and Windows 8.1 helped, but not much.
But
this time, things are different. Despite learning it the hard way,
Microsoft has clearly gathered crucial feedback over the short lifespan
of Windows 8 and turned it into what might be the firm's most
well-equipped piece of software yet.
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| Windows 10 |
Over the past nine months since it was revealed, Microsoft Windows Insider
Program - has become a proverbial feedback faucet and has broken through the public software development phases till date. In fact, it's still going on and will continue well past the
general release for Windows 10. You can join up right here.
Between
that and several public events hyping the new operating system (OS)
over the past year, Windows 10 has grown right before our very eyes.
And
now, Microsoft's refined vision for the future of computing is prime
for picking. In fact, until July 28 2016, Windows 10 is free for those
upgrading from Windows 7 or Windows 8 devices.
To Answer A Few Questions From Enthusiasts
- What is this? A complete update for Windows
- When is it out? Upgrades are seeding out now – read the details below!
- How will it cost? If you're on Windows 7 or 8.1 now, the upgrades is free for one year.
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| A Window For All Devices | One Platform |
Has the Update Arrived
Following several leaks and a confirmation of its own, the OS launched in 190 countries on July 29.That said, Windows 10 did not release for all device types on this date. Judging from comments made by Microsoft Corporate VP of Operating Systems Joe Belfiore, the company has planned a phased approach to the launch. Windows 10 will release for desktop, laptop and tablet devices first, then trickle down to phones, the Xbox One, Arduino machines and its own HoloLens.
Furthermore, Windows 10 launched on July 29 through the direct upgrade program and first to the 5 million-plus Insider Preview testers. It wasn't until after then general public started receiving their reserved free upgrades.
If you're looking to pick up a Windows 10 install on a flash drive (Microsoft's method of choice for physical copies), these drives are available at retailers, like the Microsoft Store, immediately -- You could also per-order your install drive and hope it arrives at your door on its recorded August 30 ship date, according to Amazon.
How Much Will It Cost Users to Get the Upgrade
For current Windows 7 and 8.1 users, Windows 10 upgrades downloaded directly from Microsoft will be free for one year, Microsoft's EVP of Operating Systems Terry Myerson announced in January. After that period – for both product keys and standalone copies of the OS sold on those flash drives – the asking price starts at $119.If you're not eligible for Microsoft's free upgrade program – say you're running a non-genuine Windows version or one older than Windows 7 – Windows 10 Home will cost $119 (£99, €135) and Windows 10 Pro will cost $199 (about £131, €178) per license.
Windows 10 Home users who want to upgrade to Pro will have to pay an additional $99 (about £65, €88) for the Windows 10 Pro pack.
It has been reported that Microsoft has trademarked the term "Windows 365," supposedly with the intent of it being a service. The news and speculation has sent folks buzzing about the possibility of a subscription-based Windows service to come, though that's not likely to be Windows 10.
How Long Will Microsoft Support This New Windows
Windows 10 will be supported with new features and updates until October
13, 2020. Extended support, e.g. security patches, will carry on until
October 14, 2025. This seems to apply to both Windows 10 on desktop and
Windows 10 Mobile.
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| Windows 10 update now available |
Other Important Issues To Note | Scam Alert
Capitalising on this update fervor, some scammers are now sending users
an email about the free upgrade to Windows 10 which, in fact, is an
attempt at locking you out of your data - pending a ransom amount, of
course. The email looks like it has been sent from update@microsoft.com and goes over the new OS, finally ending with an exhortation for users to upgrade now. That's where the problem comes in.
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| The Scam Email Contains the Image Above |
The email has a Win10Installer.zip file attached to it. This file is, in fact, masking CTB-Locker, an example of ransom-ware. Running the file results in the above prompt and will encrypt all your files and lock you out of your data. You'll need to pay the scammers if you want to have any chance of retrieving it - there's also a 96 hour clock attached to the 'offer'.
The email was discovered by Cisco and we suggest that you be wary of any emails asking you to upgrade to Windows 10. As Microsoft continues to propagate the update, you'll receive a notification on the Windows 10 upgrade app found on the task-bar so don't let your excitement for Windows 10 cloud your judgement.
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