Windows 10 won’t be pre-installed on new devices on launch day

The long-awaited Windows 10 launch is right around the corner and yet another little tidbit of previously unknown information has popped up regarding the launch. The first tidbit was that the launch would come in waves, meaning not everyone would be able to get their hands on the update on launch day, and now it looks like Windows 10-powered PCs won’t be available for sale either. 

Microsoft is weeks away from debuting its Windows 10 operating system, but don’t expect to see it pre-installed on new PCs at launch. Instead, Microsoft will offer customers who buy a new PC starting on July 29 the opportunity to upgrade to Windows 10 Home or Pro at retail stores. If you want a new PC and Windows 10 on launch day, expect to spend a little bit of extra time at your retailer for the entire process. Best Buy, Bic Camera, Croma, Currys/PC World, Elkjøp, Jarrir, Incredible Connection, Media Markt, Staples, Wal-Mart, Yamada, Yodobashi and other retailers will offer new PC buyers data migration services and upgrade support, said Yusuf Mehdi, Vice President of Windows and Device Marketing, in a blog post. The problem is that Microsoft is still working on finalizing the operating system ahead of the launch. This means that Windows 10 hasn’t been sent to device manufacturers to test with their own drivers, despite rumors that a “release to manufacturing” build would be ready last week.