Microsoft begins cut-price Windows 8 upgrade sales

Microsoft has kicked off the discounted upgrade window for its Windows 8 operating system.

The company said users will now be able to register their PCs for the reduced £14.99 upgrade offer for Windows 8 Pro.

The update will be open to all customers who purchase eligible Windows 7-equipped systems between 2 June 2012 and 31 January 2013. Systems shipped with Windows 7 Starter Edition will not be eligible for the reduced-cost upgrade.

To receive the update, users will need to register with Microsoft on the company's Windows Upgrade site and provide contact details as well as model number and manufacturer data on their PCs.

Once registered, users will be able to download the Windows 8 package on 26 October, when the operating system reaches its general availability phase.

The transition marks the latest phase in the march to the October release for Windows 8. The operating system was released to manufacturers on 1 August, allowing PC vendors to begin manufacturing on Windows 8-equipped PCs.

Earlier this month, Microsoft also gave developers access to the final build of Windows 8 in an effort to spur testing and development of compatible software ahead of the operating system's public debut.

In addition to providing enhancements for desktop and notebook systems, Windows 8 will be the first operating system from Microsoft designed for use with tablet devices. The platform will include the Modern UI (formerly Metro) interface as well as the introduction of support for ARM processors.