I've been waiting on this announcement so I could update my WUA feature focus for RTM; I'll do that over the weekend. Here's the scoop:
Most people buy a PC preinstalled with the edition of Windows that meets their unique needs. However, for some customers their needs may change over time.
Windows Anytime Upgrade
With Windows Anytime Upgrade (or WAU), we make it super easy and convenient for the small number of customers who’s PC needs evolve to need a higher edition of Windows 7.
Windows 7 Starter to Windows 7 Home Premium: $79.99
Windows 7 Home Premium to Windows 7 Professional: $89.99
Windows 7 Home Premium to Windows 7 Ultimate: $139.99** You’ll note that we’ve reduced the price of moving from Home Premium to Ultimate 12% in the US as compared to Vista pricing
If you live in Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK or the US (13 countries) – you will be able to purchase the upgrade from Microsoft online directly within Windows 7.
Windows 7 Family Pack
Now let’s talk about the Windows 7 Family Pack.
The Windows 7 Family Pack is an easy and affordable way to get all your PCs in your household running Windows 7 through licensing to install Windows 7 Home Premium on up to 3 PCs.
The Windows 7 Family Pack will be available starting on October 22nd until supplies last here in the US and other select markets [emphasis mine --Paul]. In the US, the price for the Windows 7 Family Pack will be $149.99 for 3 Windows 7 Home Premium licenses. That’s a savings of more than $200 for three licenses. This is a great value and we’re excited to be able to offer it to customers.
"While supplies last"???? OH COME ON.
This is all such good news. Until that last bit. Geesh.