Spotted on Amazon and Newegg this week, Microsoft will be selling two versions of Windows 10 on USB drives after the initial launch of the new operating system on July 29, 2015. While digital downloads will likely be the primary method of distribution for Windows 10, physical drives could be ideal for companies that would prefer a tangible backup of the software.
These Windows 10 copies will be distributed in four versions. Specifically, retail and OEM versions of Windows 10 Home as well as Windows 10 Professional. The retail copies of Windows 10 will cost $120 for Home and $200 for Professional. Alternatively, the OEM versions will cost $100 for Home and $140 for Professional. OEM versions are commonly purchased when PC enthusiasts build a new computer.
Of course, if you already own a valid copy of Windows 7 (with Service Pack 1) or Windows 8.1, you do not need to purchase a copy of Windows 10. You will be able to download a free copy of Windows 10 for your personal computer up to a year after the initial release of the new operating system. The Windows 10 upgrade will be delivered through the Windows Update service. If Windows users are still using older versions of the operating system, like Windows XP and Vista, users will have to purchase a new copy of Windows 10 in order to upgrade.
Mentioning the ongoing efforts to get Windows 10 ready for launch in the next two weeks, Microsoft Engineering General Manager Gabe Aul said “We’re all working super hard here to deliver the best Windows ever, and are preparing everything that needs to be in place for our public release. We cannot wait for all of you, and your friends and family who reserved their upgrade, to see the result.”
Aul continued “This is going to be an exciting couple of weeks, but it is also only the beginning. Windows as a service means that we’ll continue to keep Windows up to date with improvements and features, and our Windows Insider Program will continue so you can get early builds and share your feedback with us.”
