Microsoft is offering college students a hefty price break on its upcoming Windows 7 operating system by matching Apple's US$29 Snow Leopard price point. To help promote the limited time price cut, Microsoft launched a new Web site that also tells students just how hip Windows 7 is.
The promotion includes Windows 7 Home Premium and Professional editions, and is good through January 3, 2010.
The offer will likely entice some Windows users to upgrade when Windows 7 ships in late October, just like Apple's low price for Mac OS X 10.6 was a draw for many Mac owners. The difference, however, is that Apple's pricing is available to all Mac OS X 10.5 users, where Microsoft's special discount is available only to college students that can provide a valid student email address.
Microsoft is also limiting the promotion to downloadable upgrades instead of offering an installer DVD.
Along with the discount offer for students, Microsoft's promotional Web site also touts the features in Windows 7 that the college-bound set are sure to enjoy, and promises some exclusive Family Guy content, too.
Considering how poorly Windows Vista was received, Microsoft needs something to help boost consumer interest in its new operating system. Copying a page from Apple's playbook -- at least for students -- looks like another step in an effort to help boost the company's image.