Microsoft Offers Windows 7 Freebies

Microsoft has turned to social media to ramp up the hype around Windows 7, offering Twitter users a chance to win free pizza, candy, and other prizes in the weeks prior to the operating system's formal launch on Oct. 22nd.

"Throughout the next 7 weeks, @mswindows will be giving away prizes all based on the number 7 (for Windows 7," wrote Brandon LeBlanc, Microsoft's in-house Windows blogger, in a post Friday. "Make sure you're following @mswindows and tell them Brandon sent you," wrote LeBlanc. "Oh, and watch for the official #WinWin7 hash tag too," he added.

Microsoft delivered seven "piping hot" pizzas over the weekend to seven Twitter followers, LeBlanc said, and will continue with the giveaways up until Windows 7's launch date. On Tuesday, Microsoft's Twitter team was doling out free candy. Twitter users "Kyaizen", "dolls123", and "sheil1" appeared to be among the lucky recipients.

The social media campaign and other Windows 7 promotions aren't surprising, as Microsoft is desperate to avoid a repeat of the Vista debacle. Vista, Windows 7's direct predecessor, was unpopular with many users and was virtually shunned by the enterprise market. Complaints included Vista's intrusive security measures, incompatibility with older software, and heavy horsepower requirements.

Early reports indicate Microsoft has solved many of those issues in Windows 7. The software maker has provided few details about Windows 7 launch events, but the company is expected to hold at least one high-profile gathering in New York City.

The full version of Windows 7 Home Premium is priced at $199, with an upgrade from Vista or XP costing $119. The full version of Windows 7 Professional is $299, with upgrades going for $199. Windows 7 Ultimate is priced at $319, with the upgrade version at $219.

Upgrading from XP to Windows 7? Here's a step-by-step guide.