14 DAY TRIAL // At the end of July 2009, just one week after it released Windows 7 to manufacturing, Microsoft revealed that, despite its initial position, testers that helped build the latest iteration of the Windows client with their feedback would be awarded a free copy of the Ultimate SKU of the operating system. Testers could opt between downloading the Windows 7 RTM bits ahead of October 22nd, or simply having a boxed copy of Windows 7 Ultimate (full license) shipped to them after the general availability deadline of the operating system. Windows 7 Technical Beta Program participants that choose to have the Ultimate edition sent to them in the box variant will be happy to know that Microsoft is gearing up to start shipping the products (via CNBeta).
Although it initially noted that it would not deliver free Windows 7 licenses to the participants in the Windows 7 Technical Beta, a limited invitation-only program, Microsoft had a change of heart at the end of July. Then, in the first half of August 2009, the Redmond company gave Windows 7 RTM downloads the green light and offered Beta testers access to the bits via Microsoft Connect, starting with August 6th.
“As a member of our technical beta program you have an alternative. We have reserved a limited amount of boxed retail copies that you can choose to receive instead. These are 'first come, first served'. If you opt to have us ship you the boxed copy you should be aware that it will take much longer until you will be up and running on the final version. We will need time to manufacture and ship the copies to you. This means that you may not receive them until they are available on shelves October 22nd or later. Also, for people outside the United States you may be required to pay duties or other local taxes upon receipt,” the software giant mentioned in an email to Beta testers at that time.
The Windows 7 Beta Team provided an update to the testers that helped build the successor of Windows Vista, informing them that they would be receiving their Windows 7 commemorative boxed copies soon. Below is the new message sent by Microsoft to Windows 7 Technical Beta Program participants.
“At this time we would like to update our participants on the status of your boxed copy of Windows 7. We have received the commemorative boxed copies and will begin shipments to you next week. Once you receive them we think you'll agree that they will be worth the wait!” reads the email. “Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Please note that we will not be providing tracking numbers to participants. Most shipments should arrive via Fed-Ex although this will vary by locale. No deliveries will require a signature. People outside the United States may be required to pay duties or other local taxes upon receipt.”