Looks like Win 8 Pc version release is firming up. Special pricing availble through Jan 31 2013.

 

There's only 2 "feature" versions: Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro

 

Unless you buy a pre-loaded PC, the only install options are upgrade (from XP SP3, Vista, or Win7) or system-builder OEM full (unless you have access to some sort of volume delivery method). Pricing is set so Win 8 Pro is the same as Win 7 Home Premium, so in effect you are getting Win 7 Ultimate comparable at the Win 7 HP price.

 

The "sale" prices are for upgrade Win 8 Pro, either physical DVD+packaging (USD$70) or download from MS (USD$40).

 

Of course for desktop apps, it isn't clear what you are getting for the $40. I guess hybrid hibernate/boot and no aero, though if you are on Win 7 HP it is effectively also an upgrade to Ultimate. Though the drawback is unless you load some third-party desktop app it is hard to start desktop programs becaue MS wants you to constantly go back to the "modern UI" tiled screen to launch apps. IMHO unless you have a touch screen the tiled start screen kind of sucks if you have more than a handful of "shortcut" tiles. But my method has been to have folders of shortcuts on the desktop.

 

scott s.

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