14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 10 is still in development, but that doesn’t stop more and more users from downloading and installing it on their main PCs, despite the fact that Microsoft itself has made it clear that it’s only supposed to be used on testing machines.
And the number of those who were curious to find out what’s new in Windows 10 has grown impressively fast, with Joe Belfiore now revealing that no less than 3.7 million users registered for the Windows Insider program.
This figure includes users who are testing either the PC or the phone version of Windows 10, but given the fact that the program was started in October last year, it’s a really important change that sets the foundation for a successful launch later this year.
Windows 10 could be free for insiders
Windows 10 will be offered as a free upgrade to Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users within the first year after launch, but rumors that emerged recently claimed that the new OS could also come in the form of a free update for Windows insiders.
In other words, all those who have been helping Microsoft to develop the new operating system could get it free of charge as part of what could be an unexpected reward and a way to boost adoption in the short term.
Microsoft wants 1 billion devices powered by Windows 10 to be sold in the next two to three years, so offering the OS free of charge to as many people as possible would be a way to support this goal. Obviously, these details aren’t yet confirmed, as Microsoft avoids providing any specifics until Windows 10 is ready for launch.
According to the company itself, the new operating system should see daylight during the summer, and people close to the matter indicated that July or August could witness the official introduction.