According to a leaked memo, Microsoft will be offering free upgrades from Vista to Windows 7. Unfortunately, the offer doesn't start until June 26. The lesson? If you planned to buy a new computer this month, don't. Wait for Windows 7.To some extent, this new upgrade program shouldn't be a surprise; Microsoft offered free or low-cost upgrade coupons for Vista when it came out in 2007. In retrospect, the only thing worse than a Vista upgrade coupon was twoVista upgrade coupons. That's especially true for those poor saps who bought "Vista capable" computers, only to find they couldn't handle Vista.

What Microsoft hasn't yet announced is the make-good program for Vista users that I wished for a few weeks ago. A generous discount for Vista users, especially the early adopters who suffered through its birthing pains in early 2007, would be a great thank-you gift. Microsoft might lose a bit of money from upgraders, but they can consider it a PR cost of putting Vista behind them.

A program like the one Microsoft announced is aimed at preventing a sales freezeup that could occur now that users know Windows 7 is coming in late October. That could wipe out the back-to-school sales season, for example. Given the choice between a Vista computer that I can upgrade to Windows 7 and one with Windows 7 preinstalled, though, the best way to ensure compatibility is to wait.