It's official, folks: Windows 10 is going to be free upgrade for existing Windows users-as long whenever you claim it quickly.

Kicking there are many consumer-focused Windows 10 event in Redmond on Tuesday, January 21, Microsoft os chief Terry Myerson announced that current users of Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows Phone 8.1 will upgrade around the new computer system without cost make sure that they greatly so within 1 year of Windows 10's July 29 launch. Once you've claimed the upgrade, it's permanent, and Microsoft keep you updated of the supported lifetime with the device.

"We dream of Windows 10 becoming a service," Myerson said.

UPDATE: It's here! Here's what almost certainly have from Windows 10's staggered rollout-the updates only start on July 29. Ensure that you go look at PCWorld's Windows 10 review, and also our guides to its best additional features, the proper Windows 10 tips and tricks, and approaches to improve your first Thirty with all the os in this handset.

Here's the small from the Windows 10 page on Microsoft's site:

"It is our intent that a lot of people devices will qualify, however, many hardware/software requirements apply and feature availability may differ by device. Devices will be attached to the internet and now have Windows Update enabled. ISP fees may apply. Windows 7 SP1 and Windows 8.1 Update required. Some editions are excluded: Windows 7 Enterprise, Windows 8/8.1 Enterprise, and Windows RT/RT 8.1. Active Software Assurance customers in volume licensing possess the advantage to upgrade to Windows 10 Enterprise lateral side of this offer. Analysis be sharing considerably more and other offer terms in coming months."

Would you catch that? Windows RT tablets are not upgraded to Windows 10-though they'll add-on to a greenhouse of your new features-and business users really should pay to upgrade and receive continued support.

Deciding to get Windows 10 like the upgrade for existing users is wise. Windows 8 users have vocally expressed their displeasure along with the os in this handset, prompting happy Windows 7 users to stay build that OS. That hinders Microsoft's ability execute its vision for any service-centric, cloud-connected future for Windows; making Windows 10 free could spur more users into embracing a modern Microsoft platform.

And hey, it'd be weird to charge for Windows 10 after Windows 8 flopped so faithfully and Apple started releasing OS upgrades. Right?