Windows® 7 promises exciting new functionality for PC users, so maybe you're set on waiting until the final release date to get your new PC [3]. Wait no more! HP's Windows 7 Upgrade Option Program allows you to order an Upgrade Kit for free if your PC purchase qualifies [1]. Just order now and your kit will ship after Windows 7 becomes publicly available on October 22, 2009.

What is the upgrade program?
If you purchase one to 25 eligible HP desktop PCs, notebook PCs, or workstations, just meet these simple Eligibility Requirements to receive a free Windows 7 Upgrade Kit [1,2]

1. Your PC must be purchased on or after June 26, 2009 and before January 31, 2010.

2. Your PC must have one of the following Windows Vista versions factory-installed:
►Windows Vista Business
►Windows Vista Ultimate
►Windows Vista Home Premium
►Windows XP Professional downgraded by HP from Windows Vista Business.

3. Your PC must be on the Eligible Models list [2].

The upgrade program supports "like-to-like upgrades," so customers who purchase Windows Vista Business are eligible for upgrade to Windows 7 Professional, Windows Vista Home Premium to Windows Home Premium, and Windows Vista Ultimate to Windows 7 Ultimate.

Additionally, you must have proof of purchase, in the form of a receipt, invoice or packing slip that clearly shows the vendor and date of purchase. Please visit HP’s Windows 7 upgrade program website to learn more about eligibility requirements.

Your first upgrade kit will cost $12.99 in shipping and handling, and each subsequent kit will cost an additional $3.50. After general availability of Windows 7 from Microsoft, HP will ship you a Windows 7 upgrade kit.

Shipping and handling fees are reimbursed by HP, via a new mail-in rebate program, if you purchase an eligible product bundle between August 3 and October 31, 2009.

>> Eligible desktop bundles and rebate form
>> Eligible notebook bundles and rebate form
>> Eligible workstation bundles and rebate form

How to order
If you are ordering up to five Windows 7 Upgrade Kits please visit the HP Windows 7 Upgrade Program website. However, if you are ordering between six and 25 Upgrade Kits, you will need to call 877-280-2279 or email hpupgrade@arvatousa.com to complete your order.

If your organization needs to upgrade more than 25 PCs, you can work with Microsoft and Microsoft Volume Licensing.

For additional information on the program, including Frequently Asked Questions, please visit HP Windows 7 Upgrade Program website.

What's so great about Windows7?
There's a lot to look forward to in Microsoft's latest operating system. The whole goal of Windows 7 is to make everyday computing tasks as efficient and intuitive as possible so you work faster and smarter.

Here are just a few of the cool features coming in Windows 7:

• Aero Shake, Aero Peek and Snap help you get instant access to your desktop by instantly making your windows translucent, snapping them to the sides, and more.
• The "superbar" takes the taskbar to the next level by providing full screen previews of stacked windows so you never have to guess.
• If you have a very small or home-based business, HomeGroup can make networking a snap. It takes the frustration out of adding and configuring PCs, and sports built-in security.
• Jump Lists take you right to the documents, pictures, songs or websites you use most frequently. You can even "pin" whatever files you like there.
• Finally, you can search your desktop like you search the internet. Just type a search term in the Start menu search box and you'll instantly see a list of relevant files grouped by category.
• Improved Backup and Restore functionality makes it easier than ever to make sure you never lose a valuable file.

For more information on the new features in Windows 7, take a video tour at Microsoft and see them in action.

Don't pass up that great deal on the perfect HP PC just because you're waiting for Windows 7. HP will make sure Windows 7 comes to you!

[1] Actual software upgrade is free- this does not include a $12.99 processing and handling fee.

[2]Systems may require upgraded and/or separately purchased hardware and/or a DVD drive to install the Windows 7 software and take full advantage of Windows 7 functionality. See Microsoft for details.

[3] Information about Windows 7 is preliminary and subject to change. Some product features of Windows 7, such as the ability to watch and record live TV or navigation through the use of "touch," may require advanced or additional hardware. The features and functionality you find in the pre-release product may not appear in the final version of Windows 7. Windows XP Mode requires either OEM pre-installation or post-purchase installation of Windows XP Mode (which runs on Windows 7 Professional or Ultimate) and a virtualization technology such as Windows Virtual PC. Windows XP Mode will be available in early 2010. Here's more information on the system requirements.