Windows 10 Will No Longer Be a Free Upgrade From July 29

Hygemsta

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posted on 8 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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The Windows 10 Redstone anniversary update will be released from August 2.

When it launched July 29, 2015, Windows 10 was made available as a free upgrade for one year only to users running Windows 7 and 8.1 operating systems. Now, as the one-year deadline approaches, the days of the free upgrade are numbered, and those who still haven't updated their systems will soon have to pay to get Windows 10. At the same time, a major (and free) update is set to bring a host of improvements to the system.

All PCs running the Windows 7 (SP1) or Windows 8.1 operating systems can be upgraded to Windows 10. As with Mac OS X, which rolls out each new update at no cost to users, Microsoft has been letting PC owners upgrade to its latest operating system free of charge, but only for one year. As from July 29, 2016, it will cost $119 or €135 to install Windows 10 Home or $199 or €279 to get Windows 10 Pro.

A progressively deployed update

The Windows 10 Redstone anniversary update will be released from August 2. Given the huge number of devices running Windows 10 worldwide, it's likely to roll out over several days. This is a first major update to the OS, bringing new features and promising enhanced system stability and security.

Onscreen, the most noticeable change is the new "Start" menu, offering easier access to the full list of applications installed on the computer. The Windows tablet interface -- designed for users of hybrid PCs working in touchscreen mode -- will also evolve. The famous Live Tiles, for example, should allow access to more specific content rather than simply opening an application. Plus, like Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome, users will be able to add functionality to the Microsoft Edge web browser by downloading and installing extensions.

Finally, the Windows Hello biometric authentication system will see functionality extended to all compatible applications and websites accessible with a password. Improvements are also in store for the Continuum mode, for working seamlessly across several devices (PC, tablet, smartphone), as well as the Cortana intelligent voice assistant.