Windows 10, the next major version of Windows is slated for final release on July 29th. We have been keeping track of the new features on Windows 10 in the preview version and there are lot of new features and changes coming compared to Windows 8.1. We also covered the versions of Windows and the upgrade path. Microsoft had mentioned that Windows 10 will be offered for free to people who have genuine Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 license.
Now Microsoft has revealed more information on the upgrade and now mentions that you can get Windows 10 even if you do not have Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. The Redmond based company is now offering the final version free to all who have signed up for Insiders Program.
Insider is the program for testing Windows 10 Preview and you just need to create a Microsoft Account (MSA) to be in the Insider program. Once you have enrolled in the Insider program, you need to install the preview build on your PC. Preview build of Windows 10 will be getting newer builds before the final release.
So once you have installed the preview build, when the final build is released on July 29th, you will be able to upgrade to RTM without paying any money. It is not just the upgrade, you will be able to clean install in the same PC without having to pay for any license.
As long as you are running an Insider Preview build and connected with the MSA you used to register, you will receive the Windows 10 final release build and remain activated. Once you have successfully installed this build and activated, you will also be able to clean install on that PC from final media if you want to start over fresh.
Even after the final release, Windows Insider will be able to receive newer versions before the general rollout. So finally, you have multiple ways to get Windows 10 for free. You can either get Windows 10 for free if you have Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 or else you can join the insiders program to get the free RTM version of Windows 10.
But which version of Windows 10?
Actually, this is not true. Another sentence has been added to Microsoft’s statement, which reads… “It’s important to note that only people running Genuine Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 can upgrade to Windows 10 as part of the free upgrade offer.”
Microsoft Windows team has confirmed this on Twitter.
All in All this is optional. If privacy is your concern then don’t sign- up. It ’s FREE but still you ’ll need to follow Microsoft’s terms/policy by having your FREE ( genuinely spied) copy of Windows 24/ 7 monitored, I even wonder if this FREE copy requires for you to be connected to the internet like XBONE ?. If you want privacy or have not the need to sign-in/ connect to MSA then buy or upgrade your genuinely bought Windows 7 /8 .