Beta testers get free Windows 7 Ultimate for their efforts
Windows 7 is set to be a fine addition to the line-up of Windows operating systems on the market when it’s released to the public on Oct. 22. A big part of the reason for that are the testers who entered the Technical Beta Program in order to test the various builds of the OS to ensure they are as bug-free as possible before release.
Those who tested Windows Vista, and clearly did a great job of doing so, received a free copy of Vista Ultimate if they detected and reported at least one bug. But it looked as though the same honor wouldn’t be afforded to the Windows 7 beta testers.
In the Windows Team Blog post last week announcing Windows 7 RTM and outlining when every group can expect to get their hands on the new OS, Brandon LeBlanc stated that Windows 7 beta testers would not be receiving a complimentary copy of the new operating system. This announcement was wrapped by a special thank you from Microsoft but that really isn’t comparable to a free copy of the OS.
Thankfully, Microsoft has now seen the light and is offering a free copy of Windows 7 Ultimate to all testers who took part in the invitation-only Technical Beta Program. The complimentary offer was announced and detailed on the .Beta_Program newsgroup, and the important part of the message reads:
Thank you for doing your part in making Windows 7 great! As a member of the technical beta program you took the time to download, install and give us your feedback on Windows 7 during development. Over the last 7 months you have participated in chats, live meetings and newsgroups as well as reported bugs to help us find and fix many issues. To recognize your outstanding contribution to the product we are pleased to offer you a complimentary copy of Windows 7 for your personal use.
It should be noted that this offer doesn’t extend to the public beta testing of the later and RC builds, only the technical testers who were invited to take part by Microsoft. Tech testers will be able to get their free copy of Windows 7 on Aug. 6.
This is a good move on Microsoft’s part because the announcement that there would be no free Windows 7 for testers was greeted with a heavy degree of annoyance and antagonism. Doing this may cost Microsoft a few dollars but it ensures the happiness of tech testers who are an essential tool that Microsoft needs every time it develops a new operating system. The good PR won’t go amiss either.
The only sticking point for me is that LeBlanc suggested the heavy pre-order discounts were offered with beta testers in mind. So what happens to the ones who have gone ahead and ordered their copies prior to being told they can get Windows 7 Ultimate for free? Surely a refund should be offered.
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