Microsoft has announced the pricing details for Windows 8.1, the first major update for Windows 8. The latest Microsoft OS will be be offered as a free download to Windows 8 users. New customers can buy Windows 8.1 for $119.99 and Windows 8.1 Pro for $199.99, either as a download from Windows.com or at their local store as a retail packaged DVD product.
Windows 7 users will be able to upgrade to Windows 8.1 which will bring along all their files, but they'll have to reinstall all desktop apps. Windows XP and Vista users, on the other hand, will lose all their files, settings, and programs. "Windows 8.1 is not designed for installation on devices running Windows XP or Windows Vista. Although not designed or recommended for devices running Windows XP or Windows Vista, consumers still wanting to upgrade from Windows XP or Windows Vista should buy the retail DVD instead of using the download and boot from the DVD to do a clean install of Windows 8.1.", Microsoft said.