Microsoft launches Windows 7 in India

Fri, Oct 23 12:22 PM

In line with the global launch of Windows 7, American technology giant Microsoft Corp on Thursday launched its new operating system in India as well. The much-awaited OS, which has received rave reviews for its improved features, multimedia tools in line with changing technology and better security features, is pegged to give a major boost to the image of the world's largest software major, which suffered a severe dent after the launch of its last OS, Microsoft Vista.

All major PC manufacturers in the country, including HP, HCL, Acer and Dell, among others, have come forward to offer the new OS with their range of desktops and laptops.

However, consumers who have been waiting to upgrade their existing Vista or XP OS with the new product will have to wait a little longer, as the product is not available off the shelf immediately.

As reported by FE on Tuesday, the retail consignment of the software is yet to get clearance from the customs. Microsoft India chairman Ravi Venkatesan said, "We are hoping to get customs clearance soon."

Though retail sales do not constitute a large chunk of the overall sales as most of the offtake traditionally happens through purchase of new PCs in the consumer segment and renewal of hardware or new orders in the case of enterprises, the non-availability of the stand-alone software will come across as a disappointment for the consumer segment.

Once in the market, the software, which has been launched in six different versions, will attract a price tag of Rs 5,800 for its home basic version. The most feature-rich and advanced version of Windows 7 - Windows Ultimate -- will cost Rs 11,000. "We have launched Windows 7 in six editions targeted at specific user groups and it would be available on desktops, laptops and netbooks across a varied price range," said Venkatesan.

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