The latest update on Windows 9, confirmed by the president of Microsoft Indonesia, is that an upgrade from Windows 8 to 9 will be free.

Microsoft's Windows has  always occupied a prominent place in the desktop operating systems. But as  competition gets intense across various technological fields, the Redmond-based software giant is feeling the heat from rivals like Google and Apple. While Apple makes high-end systems but offers free upgrades to all PC owners, Google has come up with an affordable solution for cloud computing with Chrome OS. Microsoft is pinning its hopes on the upcoming Windows 9 aka Threshold for the continued success of its OS business.

Several leaked reports have indicated different features of the upcoming desktop OS, ranging from a prominent Windows key to Live Tiles into the Windows Menu. According to an Indonesian online publication Detik, via BGR, President of Microsoft Indonesia, Andreas Diantoro, confirmed the Windows 9 upgrade will be free for all Windows 8 users, similar to Apple's updates to OS X.

The latest move comes largely as a way to win back the trust of its Windows followers after the botched Windows 8 launch. It serves as an incentive to the Windows 8 users who stayed with Microsoft through its tough days. Diantoro did not mention if the upgrade to Windows 9 will be free for earlier versions of Windows, such as Windows XP, which is no longer in support, Vista and Windows 7.

Offering a free upgrade will ensure a large number of Windows 8 users switching to the latest version of Windows.

In an earlier report by Russian Microsoft leaker WZOR, Microsoft is reportedly readying an "awesome" offer for Windows XP users that will compel them to switch to Windows 9. This adds to the company's continued efforts to convince the upset users of Windows XP, which lost support despite several requests.

Microsoft is also expected to hold a media event on Sept. 30, where more details on the upcoming Windows 9 OS will surface.