Rumor: Microsoft is scrapping retail version Windows 8

Microsoft plans to scrap the retail version of Windows 8 and only offer an upgrade DVD and OEM version. At least that’s what two journalists who specialize in news from the software giant claim.

Until now, home users could always purchase a box with Windows in it, but also opt for a cheaper upgrade or OEM version. The OEM edition is actually for system builders, but is invariably offered to consumers through retail channels. In the Pricewatch, the OEM version of Windows 7 Home Premium is offered for just over 80 euros, while the retail version is twice as expensive. Microsoft now plans to scrap the entire retail version and only offer the upgrade DVD and a so-called System Builder Kit, or the OEM version, of Windows 8.

The rumor coming from sources from Paul Thurrot and Mary Jo Foley, two journalists who specialize in Microsoft news. If the rumor is true, this is another indication that Windows 8 is going to be cheaper than expected. At the beginning of July, it became clear that users of Windows XP, Vista and 7 can download an upgrade to the new operating system for $ 40 as soon as Windows 8 comes out. This concerns a license for the Pro edition, which also gives users access to Media Center.