And unlike the weaselly "Genuine Windows" label on older upgrades, the activation screens for a Windows 10 upgrade specifically confirm the existence of a "digital license.
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Anyway, the free upgrade offer was extended, at least for people who use assistive technologies. The FAQ on a separate page even called it a "free upgrade offer extension" and pointedly noted that it was not limited to specific assistive technologies. I regularly use the Magnifier utility in Windows, which is indisputably an assistive technology.
Of course, I'm not a lawyer, and this column isn't legal advice. But I will say that I am personally confident in the activation status of any PC upgraded using the tool on that page during the eligibility period. This extension was, I think, a very large nod and a wink, designed to make it easy for those who wanted a Windows 10 upgrade to still get it while placating the OEM partners who were none too happy about the year-long emphasis on upgrades rather than new PC sales.
Alas, I say "was," because the extension which was itself extended officially ended on Jan. The page that formerly ran an Upgrade Assistant now displays a message about the expiration of the offer. The big question now is whether Microsoft will ever turn off the code on its activation servers that dispenses digital licenses after an upgrade from an earlier Windows version. I've continued to test that scenario, and I can confirm, long after the end of support for Windows 7, that it still works.
I continue to hear from readers sharing their experiences. If you've used this technique on a PC, click my name at the top of this post and use the contact form to let me know how it went for you. Note: This article was originally published in January It has been updated multiple times since then to reflect the most current information. Windows Give yourself more time to roll back the upgrade. DocuSign CEO: 'We've got a little bit of turning the ship, but it's straightforward what we need to do'.
Open-source Vizio lawsuit takes an ugly turn. Strapi v4: Big changes in latest release of this open-source 'headless' CMS. Microsoft is rolling out this new look for Office that tackles 'pain points' in design. DocuSign shares plunge as fiscal Q3 results top expectations but outlook disappoints.
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System requirements. See the system requirements before installing Windows We also recommend that you visit your PC manufacturer's website for info about updated drivers and hardware compatibility. Language in Windows. You'll need to choose the same language when you install Windows Edition of Windows.
You should also choose the same edition of Windows. Please see the Volume Licensing Service Center for more information. Microsoft Office products. If you just purchased a new device that includes Office , we recommend redeeming installing Office before upgrading to Windows For more information, check How to upgrade to Windows 10 on new devices that include Office Select an edition from the drop down menu.
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