Now that Windows 8 has finally arrived in the market, it is time to check out how much will the new operating system cost for consumers. Turns out that the pricing for Malaysia is still the same as per what we reported earlier.
By that, we actually mean the existing Windows Upgrade Offer program which is for new PC owners to upgrade their Windows 7 to Windows 8 Pro as well as the upgrade program for existing Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 users. Both promos will end on 31 January 2013 in which the pricing will then be changed to the much heftier standard pricing as what you can see in the summary below:
For those who are wondering, the Windows 8 Pro Pack is basically the upgrade pack for a standard Windows 8 which will give users access to the additional features that are exclusively available on Windows 8 Pro such as data protection, Remote Desktop connection and domain join. On top of that, users will also receive Windows Media Centre together with the pack.
Looking at the standard pricing of the operating system, we got to say that it is pretty high to our liking although the promo pricing are rather good. Hence, if you planning to obtain Windows 8 for your PC, we reckoned that there is no better time to do that other than now.
UPDATE (October 31): Microsoft Malaysia has provided us more information to clarify the pricing above. Hit the Read More link below to find out.
Information below came directly from Microsoft Malaysia’s Windows 8 launch press release:
Windows 8 is available to Malaysian consumers through three paths:
1. Purchase of a new Windows 8 Device
Consumers will enjoy Windows 8 which comes pre-installed through the stunning array of All-in-Ones; touch-optimized laptops and ultrabooks; and even new hybrid form factors such as convertibles and tablets, made available at all major retail outlets from partners such Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Lenovo, LG, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba.
2. Windows Upgrade Offer for consumers purchasing a new Windows 7 PC
The Windows Upgrade Offer provides consumers who buy an eligible Windows 7 PC the option to purchase a downloadable upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of just US$14.99 USD during the time of the promotion. This program is available for consumers buying new Windows 7 PCs that are preinstalled with Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional or Ultimate and include a matching and valid OEM Certificate of Authenticity. The Windows 7 PC must be purchased new during the eligibility period of 2 June 2012 to 31 January 2013 and redeemed before the program expiration at the end of February 2013. Consumers who register for the Windows Upgrade Offer will be able to download Windows 8 starting 26 October 2012. The upgrade can be installed on any eligible and compatible Windows PC and comes with 90 days of support from Microsoft.
3. Purchase of Windows 8 Pro upgrades
Consumers whose devices do not qualify for the Windows Upgrade Offer may opt to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro by purchasing a Windows 8 Pro Upgrade retail packaged product at participating outlets (see below for more details). Windows 8 Pro is available at a special retail price of RM229 (US$69.99) for a limited time only until 31 January 2013. Thereafter, Windows 8 Pro will be available for an estimated retail price of RM885 (US$289.99).
Windows 8 Participating Retailers
