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It looks like bargain-hunting computer geeks will have a field day with the Windows 7 launch, as Microsoft, retailers and PC makers try to drum up extra interest in the new operating system with special packages and promotions. Some of the deals have already started to leak out, and more are expected in the coming days.
For starters, Best Buy appears to be taking a page from Costco's retail playbook by offering a bulk package of three -- yes, three -- Windows 7 computers for $1,200. The "PC Home Makeover" package includes a desktop computer, laptop and netbook, with an 18.5-inch monitor, a wireless router and free Geek Squad setup.
A cautionary note: The price might sound tempting, but make sure the computers being offered actually fit your needs. See this page for more details on the specs of the machines included in the package.
Microsoft is calling the overall Windows 7 price promotions "7 Days of Windows 7," and the company says it's planning to roll out new deals each day on the Windows home page during the week. Other machines expected to be highlighted on Day 1 of Windows 7 include the Dell Studio XPS 13, available at a $100 discount; and the Acer AZ5610-U9072 23" Touch All-in-One machine, which sells for $880.
Deals are also available for people planning to upgrade existing machines to the new operating system, without buying a new PC. Microsoft is offering Windows 7 to college students for $30 via this page.
Other offers include a Windows 7 family pack that lets PC users upgrade to Windows 7 Home Premium on up to three existing Windows Vista or XP computers for $149.99, a discount of more than $200 from buying the Windows 7 Home Premium upgrades individually.
Click here for full Windows 7 coverage on TechFlash.
Todd Bishop is co-founder and managing editor of TechFlash. He has covered Microsoft and the technology industry for more than five years, most recently as a daily newspaper reporter and blogger based in Seattle.
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