Microsoft offers netbook users a cheaper escape from Windows 7 Starter

Filed under: OS Updates, Microsoft

With that silly simultaneous application limit in Windows 7 starter nixed, it looked like the netbook-targeted OS was headed in the right direction. On launch day, however, one seriously goofy limitation remained intact: the complete removal of personalization options -- including the ability to change your wallpaper image.

Sure, I understand that the move was probably a carrot dangled to wireless carriers -- who could then permanently brand their inexpensive subsidized netbooks and get a little free advertising. And yes, I know there are hacks out there to enable background changes, but it still seems like a goofy feature to disable.

The Windows Anytime Upgrade offers a solution, too. Buy it, install it, and bump your netbook from Starter to Windows 7 Home Premium. And now, Microsoft has announced that you can make the move at an even better price.

Until July 3rd 2010, you'll be able to make the switch for $49.99 (a $30 discount) at "select retailers." You can also move from Windows 7 Home Premium to Professional for $79 (though that's a much less exciting $10 off).

Now the bad news: this only applies to new systems purchased during the promotional period. If you've already bought a system with Starter on it, stay tuned to our site -- we'll keep posting restriction-busting programs as we find them!

Microsoft offers netbook users a cheaper escape from Windows 7 Starter originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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