As I am sure everyone with an Internet connection is aware. Microsoft’s latest brainchild, Window7, is going to be released to the public on the 22^nd of October 2009. This includes both the stand alone software and the operating system on preinstalled systems.

As of the 17^th of September 2009 those of you who are really excited about Windows 7 can preorder the operating system from most major software outlets.

Windows 7

Currently pricing for Windows 7 seems as reasonable as it ever has been, with the Windows 7 Home Premium Edition currently looking to retail in at around R1496 ($200) and the Professional Version for around R2244 ($300).

For students there does appear to be some reprieve from the pricing as Microsoft have indicated that they will be offering students in selected countries who attend university or college a massive price discount. Student will be able to purchase Windows 7 (assuming they have a valid education institution email address) for only R224 ($29.99).

According to the head of the Windows 7 group in South Africa, Colin Erasmus, it’s not clear yet if South African students will be able to apply for this discount, but he did indicate that selected local universities have volume licensing agreements with Microsoft South Africa that allows students to get access to free copies of Windows 7 and Microsoft Office products.

For those of you who have purchased or are going to purchase a system running Microsoft Windows Vista (Home Premium, Business or Vista Ultimate) between 26^th of June 2009 and the 22^nd of October 2009, you will be eligible for a free copy of Windows 7. This free upgrade will only be available between the 22^nd of October 2009 and the 21 January 2010.