From Microsoft

Jul 14, 2010 09:40 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft is offering users a chance to win free copies of the latest iteration of its cash cows, as well as the 16GB version of its digital media player. The prize package put together by the Redmond company is worth approximately $670 in terms of retail value. On July 13th 2010, the software giant kicked off round 1 of the Windows Recession Sweepstakes. Up for grabs are a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate, one of Microsoft Office 2010 Home & Student and a 16GB Zune HD.

However, users must hurry if they want a chance to win, as round 1 of the Windows Recession Sweepstakes closes in just 24 hours following its introduction. At the time of this article there was still plenty of time to enter the completion.

“Starting today (July 13) at 1:00pm PT you have 24 hours to leave a comment telling us which Windows 7 feature is your favorite. If you know someone who is having a tough year, pay it forward and pass the word. Remember: leave us an email address or your Twitter handle in your comment so we have a way to reach you if you win,” revealed Microsoft’s Ashley Brown.

Comments containing responses to the question from Microsoft regarding your favorite Windows 7 feature can be left on the Windows Team blog, specifically, in the post announcing the sweepstakes’ kick off. There is a small catch however, as the offering is only available to people in the United States.

“And while this sweepstakes is open to everyone in the United States, we specifically designed the prize packs with students in mind. With unemployment among young people in high double digits and student debt at dream-crushing levels we thought our still-in-school mates could use some special help landing the latest tech. Here’s to you hardworking students—we think you rock and good luck!” Brown added.

And if you missed the debut of the Windows Recession Sweepstakes, do not despair. Fact is that Microsoft will offer users a plethora of additional chances to win by the end of this month. “Ten (10) times between today and July 31 I will publish a “Recession Sweepstakes” post. You will only find out when a new sweepstakes is live if you follow me, Brandon, Ben or the Windows Blog on Twitter (or if you keep checking the Windows Experience Blog). So sign up to follow us,” Brown said. “In the post, I’ll tell you how long comments will be open and the steps you need to take to enter. Once I close the comments, Brandon and I will enter everyone who left a valid entry into a hat (well, maybe not an actual hat but something hat-like) and draw the lucky winner.”

Follow me on Twitter @MariusOiaga.