Microsoft reduces Windows Vista prices

New Delhi, Mar 18: Microsoft Corporation India Private Ltd today said it has reduced the price on the retail versions of Windows Vista, the latest operating system, by 13-39 per cent.

''The price reduction is effective immediately and will be applicable only for Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows Vista Ultimate editions,'' a company statement said. The reduction varies from 13-39 per cent, with the estimated retail prices at present for Windows Home Basic Edition at Rs 4,000, Windows Vista Home Premium at Rs 5,300 and Windows Vista Ultimate at Rs 11,500.

''With the rise of the retail industry in India, we are witnessing increasing demand for off-the-shelf computer software from the do-it-yourself audiences. This reduction in pricing will enable us to reach out to this set of consumers, while at the same time providing our channel partners with a greater opportunity to sell original software,'' company Director (Windows Client Business Group) Prasanna Meduri said.

In a growing market like India, this price reduction is expected to have a significant impact on consumers looking to upgrade to Windows Vista.

Further, the new price lines would also enable consumers to experience the benefits of original Windows software, the statement said.

Windows Vista, the Microsoft's latest desktop operating system, is available in six versions, two for businesses, three for consumers, and one for emerging markets.

UNI