Microsoft Malaysia, Windows 8 Launch

Microsoft Malaysia unveiled its latest operating system, Windows 8, which is designed for a no-compromise experience for work and play across various device form-factors – from desktop-based All-in-Ones, to laptops and ultrabooks, as well as new hybrid and tablet models.

“This year, Microsoft Malaysia celebrates its 20th anniversary of Transforming Malaysia Together. We have made such a huge impact on transforming education, businesses and lives here in Malaysia through the power of computing technology. Today, this is best exemplified through the launch of Windows 8!” declared Ananth Lazarus, Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia.

Some of the main features of Windows 8 include the new fast and fluid Start screen that gives people one-click access to the apps and content they care most about. In addition, the entirely new Internet Explorer 10 has been perfectly designed for touch and offers built-in cloud storage capabilities with SkyDrive.

Ananth Lazarus, Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia (Center)

Experience Windows 8 nationwide

As a follow up to the launch of Windows 8 today, Microsoft’s will also be conducting a nationwide roadshow to promote Windows 8 and the new Windows 8 optimized devices. Members of the public will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the new operating system and Windows 8 devices during the following dates and at these locations:-

How to get One?

Windows 8 is available to Malaysian consumers through three paths:

1. Purchase of a new Windows 8 Device

Consumers will enjoy Windows 8 which comes pre-installed through the stunning array of All-in-Ones; touch-optimized laptops and ultrabooks; and even new hybrid form factors such as convertibles and tablets, made available at all major retail outlets from partners such Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Lenovo, LG, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba.

2. Windows Upgrade Offer for consumers purchasing a new Windows 7 PC

The Windows Upgrade Offer provides consumers who buy an eligible Windows 7 PC the option to purchase a downloadable upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of just US$14.99 USD during the time of the promotion. This program is available for consumers buying new Windows 7 PCs that are preinstalled with Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional or Ultimate and include a matching and valid OEM Certificate of Authenticity. The Windows 7 PC must be purchased new during the eligibility period of 2 June 2012 to 31 January 2013 and redeemed before the program expiration at the end of February 2013. Consumers who register for the Windows Upgrade Offer will be able to download Windows 8 starting 26 October 2012. The upgrade can be installed on any eligible and compatible Windows PC and comes with 90 days of support from Microsoft.

3. Purchase of Windows 8 Pro upgrades

Consumers whose devices do not qualify for the Windows Upgrade Offer may opt to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro by purchasing a Windows 8 Pro Upgrade retail packaged product at participating outlets (see Appendix 2 for more details). Windows 8 Pro is available at a special retail price of RM229 (US$69.99) for a limited time only until 31 January 2013.  Thereafter, Windows 8 Pro will be available for an estimated retail price of RM885 (US$289.99).

Still no news on the latest Microsoft Surface tablet yet.