Earlier in the Beta testing stage of Windows 7, we learned that Microsoft would be offering free upgrades from Vista for some PC owners who bought their systems after July of 2009. Computerworld reported today that those Windows XP holdouts will be able to “purchase upgrade media and an upgrade license to move from Windows XP to Windows 7.” The company spokesperson also said, “You will be able to get the discounted ‘upgrade’ license, but it will include full bits.” Looks like good news for those XP users who have been swayed towards Windows 7 for its speed and reliability.

Microsoft released information yesterday about the six versions of Windows 7. No word yet on how they may be priced or if Windows XP users will be able to upgrade to different types of licenses. Windows XP users will have to do a clean install however. There won’t be an “upgrade” disc like from XP to Vista or Vista to Windows 7. Users will have to format their install and re-do the install process for Windows 7. This may effect how many users Microsoft can sway to their new operating system. But the company’s spokesperson said also, “Microsoft plans to have other tools and ways to help people get through that process, but we don’t have full details on that at this time.” So, there may be other news for XP users in the near future.

This step towards getting Windows XP holdouts to convert to Seven is the latest in Microsoft’s attempt to slowly fade out their old operating system. Microsoft plans to cut off their support and updates for XP users within the future. Not suprising, considering Windows XP still takes up roughly 69.8% of the operating system market.

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