Microsoft Offers $100 Discount to Switch from XP to Windows 8.1

Microsoft is giving away a $100 discount for Windows XP users when they buy a Surface Pro 2 or other Windows 8.1 computers.

The offer is valid from March 20 until June 15, 2014 as stated in the official website for Microsoft. Those who are interested can avail of the offer in participating Microsoft retail branches as well as online stores across the U.S, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

Although the promo is expected to run until June, it may end sooner if all the supplies will be purchased before that date. The promo is only applicable to one device and the $100 discount is not valid for purchases and orders made before the offer started. Those who will avail of the promo will also be awarded with a 90-day free support service for their Windows 8.

"This is a special promotion for current XP users. Customers going to MicrosoftStore.com from a machine running Windows XP will see the deal pop up automatically," a spokesperson for Microsoft told ZDNet.

"People can also bring in their old XP device to one of the more than 80 Microsoft retail store locations and instantly save $100 on the purchase of a qualifying PC priced at $599 or above."

Apr.8, 2014 marks the last day that Microsoft will support Windows XP. After that date, the company will stop issuing fixes and patches for XP users, except for those who are using the Premier Support. However, Premier Support users will be required to pay every time they request for a custom patch for their operating system.

"There will be no more security updates or technical support for the Windows XP operating system," Microsoft stated as reported by CNET.

XP users who are used to the mouse-controlled functions may find it hard to adapt to Windows 8 and Windows 8.1, however, several changes are added to these operating systems that would make the transition easier.

These changes include context-related menus, search and power buttons on the Start screen, and allowing users to pin apps to their Desktop bar.

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