Microsoft
A technician adjusts a spotlight at the exhibition stand of Microsoft in preparation for the CeBIT computer fair in the northern German town of Hanover March 12, 2007. Reuters/Christian Charisus

Windows 10 is the next major operating system from Microsoft that is going to get unveiled through a launch event at Redmond on Jan 21. Microsoft had revealed the Windows 10 OS in September by focusing more on business experience of the operating system. On Jan. 21, the Microsoft will highlight on the consumer experience of the OS. Fresh rumours claim that the Windows 10 will be available for free or at a cheaper price for existing Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 users. Windows 10 OS can be installed on PCs running on Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1.

Windows 10 To Be Available For Free For Windows 8/8.1 Users, Low-Price For Windows 7 Users

Softpedia claims that the Windows 8.1 users will be able to upgrade to Windows 10 for free. People who are still using Windows 7 will be required to a small fee to use the Windows 10 OS. Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1 users can make use of an exclusive upgrade tool to install Windows 10. This tool will not delete any files present on the hard drive during the installation process.

Windows 10 For Windows XP and Windows Vista Users

According to Softpedia, PCs running on Windows XP and Windows Vista can be upgraded to Windows 10. However, users will be only upgrade to the new OS by performing a fresh install. This means carrying out the Windows 10 installation process would delete files present on the hard drive. Hence, users will have to first perform a backup of their data and then perform Win 10 installation.

Windows 10 will be available as an ISO file which can be used to create a Windows 10 installation disc. Users may also use the ISO to USB software to create USB Windows 10 installer. Windows XP and Windows Vista users will have to purchase the Windows 10 at full price in order to use it, adds Softpedia.

The information on Windows 10 pricing released by Softpedia has not been confirmed by Microsoft. Also, Microsoft has not announced the Windows 10 release date yet. Still, the rumour mill claims that Windows 10 will release in the second half of the year.

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