Tech beta testers to get free Windows 7

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Microsoft has apparently changed its mind and will offer a free copy of its next operating system Windows 7 to technical beta testers.

The offer is just for those who took part in the invite-only Technical Beta Program, and not for anyone else who downloaded the beta or release candidate.

As Windows 7 hit the RTM milestone last week, Microsoft said the only reward beta testers would get is the discount on pre-orders - which were open to absolutely everyone. It noted most of its technical testers were subscribers, and would therefore get the OS free anyway.

Now, after an apparent change of heart, technical testers will receive a free copy as a thank you from the firm.

"As a member of the technical beta program you took the time to download, install and give us your feedback on Windows 7 during development. Over the last seven months you have participated in chats, live meetings and newsgroups as well as reported bugs to help us find and fix many issues," Microsoft said on the beta newsgroup.

The offer is open to English technical and international mini-beta programs. Such testers will get a full copy of Windows 7 Ultimate Edition, either via download on 6 August or a boxed copy will be shipped for 22 October.

Click here for the top business features in Windows 7.

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