Microsoft just announced that Windows 8.1 users will get a free upgrade to Windows 10. Windows Phone 8.1 users will also get a free upgrade. And those still running Windows 7 will have a 12 month timeframe to upgrade for free (before presumably attracting a cost).
Microsoft want to get all users on the latest version so developers can target one single platform and every single device. This is a new strategy for the company.
“Windows as a service makes Windows the most attractive development platform ever”
In the enterprise, Microsoft wants people to connect devices directly to Windows update so they get the latest straight away. That’s a big shift away from tradition ICT deployment strategies which use System Center Configuration Manager to deploy updates when they’re ready. Will be interesting to watch the reaction of ICT departments on this one.
