Credit: House Party Inc.

Microsoft is using this promotional image to depict its vision for the Windows 7 house parties, but we have a hunch the reality will be much more geeky.

Microsoft is putting a Tupperware-style twist on the upcoming Windows 7 rollout -- launching a new initiative to encourage thousands of employees, partners and technology enthusiasts to throw parties in their homes and communities to demonstrate and help spread the word about its new operating system.

People accepted as official launch party hosts will get their own copy of Windows 7 Ultimate Edition, and a chance to win a computer.

But unlike the Tupperware model, there will be no literal selling. These parties are more about generating word-of-mouth buzz. And based on early reviews, at least, it appears that this version of Microsoft's flagship product will be somewhat more compelling than a plastic storage container.

Of course, the fact that people would need to be invited to a Windows launch shows just how much things have changed for the company and the industry. Windows 95's launch had them lining up around the block.

But the plan also shows Microsoft's confidence in Windows 7. After all, nothing would kill the party like a system crash or a buggy device driver. Those kinds of problems plagued the January 2007 launch of Windows Vista, creating a negative reputation that Microsoft is eager to put behind itself. Windows 7 has won praise so far for its stability and compatibility with devices and software.

The company isn't yet talking publicly about the house party plan, but the basics are laid out on the site of House Party Inc., an event and direct marketing company that has worked with Microsoft on Xbox events. Engadget also posted an item, and I was able to confirm additional details with people who know about the plan.

Microsoft is calling them "launch parties" rather than house parties, because it doesn't want to limit the venues to homes. The company is expected to suggest other possible locations including cafes or malls.

Invitations to host parties will be sent to House Party's user base and Windows 7 testers and enthusiasts. Microsoft employees in qualifying countries are getting a message inviting them to host parties, as well.

Other people can apply to be hosts via the House Party site, but it notes that slots are "very limited."

Aspiring hosts who are accepted into the program will pick one of four "party themes" and receive special "party packs" (contents not yet disclosed) to help them throw their events -- plus a "signature edition" of Windows 7 Ultimate to keep afterward. Non-Microsoft employees who throw parties will also be eligible for a sweepstakes to win a mini-notebook computer worth $750.

Microsoft employees in the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Hong Kong, Japan, Spain, Italy and India are expected to host parties between Oct. 8 and 12, prior to Windows 7's debut. The company is encouraging employees in other markets to host parties, as well, although they won't have the benefit of the House Party support or the special party packs.

Members of the public who are accepted into the House Party program would hold their sanctioned Windows 7 parties anytime between the Oct. 22 launch and Oct. 29.

Separately, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is expected to host the company's big Windows 7 launch party Oct. 22 -- not at his home, at least not on that day, but rather in New York City.

Previous Coverage

Leaping from Windows XP to Windows 7? Important stuff to consider

Details: Microsoft's Windows 7 price cuts, upgrade promotions

Windows 7 Family Pack pricing, and details on 'Anytime Upgrade'