Windows 10 Free Upgrade for Personal Users; Microsoft January Event to Reveal Connection with Xbox Console

By Shawn Schuster
Windows 10
Windows 10

Microsoft's newest operating system for the PC, Windows 10, aims to reinvigurate the desktop market with an OS that more closely mimics the popular Windows 7 platform rather than the buggy, but more recent Windows 8.

But Windows 10 is much more than a revisit to familiar user interface design. It was developed to create an improved user experience between mobile and non-touchscreen displays, and provide the ability to run Windows apps right on the desktop or laptop computer.

Just about a year ago, in December of 2013, Microsoft had just begun teasing a project codenamed Threshold that would be bringing Windows PCs, mobile devices, and the Xbox gaming systems together more closely than ever. This news was the first step in paving the road for Windows 10, including word that the Start Menu would be returning after a brief vacation from Windows in version 8.

Even at this early stage, the rumors focused on a possible timeline of Spring 2015 for a new version of Windows. In January of 2014, the first rumors dropped that "Windows 9" would be coming in April of 2015, but the "9" number was replaced with "10" to give more of a feeling that the operating system would be moving that much further forward. That Windows 9 name was used throughout much of the year until the official reveal of the product -- and new name -- on September 30.

But it was during that San Francisco reveal in September that Microsoft recalculated the release window to be "Fall 2015."

Since then, we've had dozens of news tidbits surrounding Windows 10, including the inclusion of a digital personal assitant named Cortana that will also be on the Xbox console, a sneak peek at the new interface design, Mac-like trackpad gestures, and several versions of the Technical Preview that's making the rounds.

One major point that many eager Microsoft users are debating is whether or not Windows 10 will be free. After Microsoft dropped the ball by making Windows 8 so expensive to the average user, Apple gave their competition a shot in the arm by giving away its own operating system update for free. But now, Microsoft may have read the writing on the wall as the company is expected to offer Windows 10 for free for personal users. The catch is that they are expected to still offer enterprise users a paid version with further upgrades and features being for-pay. Unfortunately, none of that has been officially confirmed, and there's been no word on what types of services would be part of the pay system.

In addition to that bit of news, Microsoft's Windows 10 event on January 21 is expected to reveal some new information that should appeal to both Windows and Xbox users, according to a tweet from Xbox boss Phil Spencer.

Spencer has already teased information that would please gaming fans as he has previously said that the January event would "talk about gaming on Windows," but the main focus of the event will be on the Windows 10 consumer experience.

Whether or not we'll get a concrete release date and price structure during that January event is unknown, but Microsoft will also hold an event in April that is said to reveal even more information. We'll be sure to keep our eyes on both events and report any further developments. 

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories