Microsoft Launches Windows 8 in India

Microsoft has launched Windows 8 in India. Windows 8 PCs and tablets will be available in the country from 14 OEM partners - Acer, ASUS, Dell, Fujitsu, HCL, HP, Lenovo, RP Infosystems, Sai Info System, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, Wipro and Zenith Computers on a variety of form factors - from tablets and hybrids to laptops and ultrabooks, on both touch and non-touch devices. In India, over 250 Windows 8 enabled devices, including 23 completely new SKUs of Windows 8 PCs are available across 100 cities and more than 2500 retail stores.

"With the launch of Windows 8, Microsoft is unveiling a reimagined Windows to the world," said Bhaskar Pramanik, chairman, Microsoft Corporation India. "Whether you want a tablet or a PC, whether you want to consume or create, whether you want to work or play - Windows 8 delivers a personalized experience that fits your unique style and needs," he added.

Windows 8 comes with a new smooth and intuitive start screen and tiles with content, and update in real time. The software is natively cloud-connected and users only need to sign in once with their Microsoft account, to ensure that their mails, calendars, contact, pictures etc. are synced across multiple devices. Further, Windows 8 comes with a reimagined browser, Internet Explorer 10 that is touch-ready and delivers a full screen browsing experience.

The software will be available in two versions at retail, Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro. And for business customers who have signed up for software assurance, Windows 8 Enterprise offers new possibilities in mobile productivity with features like Windows To Go, DirectAccess, and BranchCache, as well as enhanced end-to-end security with features including BitLocker and AppLocker. Launching at the same time is a new member of the Windows family designed for ARM-based tablets, Windows RT, which will be available pre-installed on new devices.

In addition to the range of new devices available, consumers can also upgrade their existing PCs. From June 2, 2012 until January 31, 2013, consumers currently running PCs with Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, are qualified to download Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of Rs. 1,999. And Windows 7 PCs purchased between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013 can download Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of Rs. 699 with the Windows Upgrade Offer, available at www.windowsupgradeoffer.com < http://www.windowsupgradeoffer.com>.