Microsoft FINALLY launches Aussie Win 7 family pack with 'limited' BS

Alex Zaharov-Reutt
Monday, 30 November 2009 06:49

Opinion and Analysis

Putt putted one in nicely when he put it to us that: “We listened to the feedback from our customers and we are very pleased to announce that we are piloting Family Pack in Australia as part of our Christmas offers.”

Putt continued, saying: “Windows 7 makes it easier for people to do the things they want on their PC, so we’re excited to make it even easier for our customers to upgrade their PC’s at home to Windows 7 by providing this fantastic offer.”
 
Of course Microsoft would have looked even more family friendly and open eared had Redmond HQ actually had the wherewithal to get off their butts and decide on a Win 7 Family Pack for Australia before the official launch, but hey, better late than never.

For those who “may have already purchased three upgrade licenses to Windows 7 Home Premium prior to 30 November”, which has strict eligibility requirements, “will qualify for three complimentary Wireless Comfort Desktops, each featuring a wireless keyboard and mouse set.”

The requirements are that: “Acceptable proof of purchase to qualify for the three complimentary Wireless Comfort Desktops will be a single receipt showing the purchase of three Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade licenses in a single transaction or up to three receipts showing the purchase of separate Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade licenses that were transacted on the same credit card.  Receipts must be dated prior to November 30, 2009.”

For anyone with further questions on the Wireless Comfort Desktop offer to “see if they qualify”, Microsoft advises that: “customers should contact Microsoft Customer Service on 13 20 58”.

Microsoft says that the “Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade Family Pack will be only be available at the following participating Australian retailers: Betta Electrical, Bing Lee, David Jones, Dick Smith, Harvey Norman, JB Hi Fi, Myer, Officeworks, Retravision,  The Good Guys, WOW Sight and Sound.”
 
To sum up, Microsoft’s Family Deal may be long overdue, but it has finally arrived, with Microsoft able to trumpet it as more evidence of the company listening to the customers that keep it in business.

Any price cut is always welcome – especially in the face of ever improving free Linux distros - so I just hope we see more of it from Microsoft in the future!