Loophole allows anyone to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $14.99

After the recent launch of the Windows 8 operating system, a loophole that allows any Windows user to buy a license for Windows 8 Pro for $14.99 (Rs 800 approximately) has been uncovered. According to Technology Personalized, the discount can be availed by simply faking some of the information to be enterted on Microsoft's website when applying for the discount.

Microsoft has offered the discount to customers who bought a Windows 7 machine between June 2, 2012 and January 31, 2013. The discount is coupled with another that Microsoft is offering with Windows 8, allowing users to buy the OS for $14.99 instead of the retail price, $169.99 (Rs 12,000). According to the information required by Microsoft's website while upgrading the version, there is no way for Microsoft to verify if the Windows 7 key was purchased within the time frame that makes the customer eligible for the discount on the upgrade. The website does not ask for the Windows 7 license key.

Windows 8 can be bought for $14.99

Windows 8 was launched recently at an event held by Microsoft. Also announced was the opening of the Windows Store. As a result of work with hardware partners, more than 1,000 certified PCs and tablets, including Microsoft Surface, are available for the launch of Windows 8 — making it the best lineup of PCs ever across the Windows 8 and Windows RT ecosystem.

“We have reimagined Windows and the result is a stunning lineup of new PCs,” said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. “Windows 8 brings together the best of the PC and the tablet. It works perfect for work and play and it is alive with your world. Every one of our customers will find a PC that they will absolutely love.”

Windows 8 can be purchased in a variety of ways from the world’s leading retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy and Staples in the US, Casas Bahia in Brazil, Future Shop and Staples in Canada, Suning in China, Media Markt across Europe, FNAC in France, Yamada in Japan, Telmex in Mexico, Dixons in the UK, and many more stores, which have a variety of offers for customers looking for great deals on Windows 8 PCs, devices and software. Consumers can learn here about the large array of Windows 8 devices available and find the one that best fits their needs. More information on the great offers around the world is available here.

In addition to the range of new Windows-based devices available, customers can also upgrade their existing PCs. Till the end of January, customers currently running PCs with Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 are qualified to download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of US$39.99 (approximately Rs 2,150). And eligible Windows 7 PCs purchased between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013, in more than 140 markets can download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of US$14.99 (approximately Rs 800) with the Windows Upgrade Offer, available here.