Microsoft to release Windows 10 on July 29

TORONTO – Microsoft promised Windows 10 would be available for download sometime this summer and now consumers have an exact date. The company announced Monday its new operating system would be available for download for PCs on July 29.

Users running Windows 7 or 8.1 – the two previous versions of the software – will be able to upgrade their devices for free.

The software giant will allow users to reserve their Windows 10 upgrade by clicking on the Windows logo at the right hand side of their taskbar. Once users reserve their upgrade, the new operating system will automatically download once its available.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Windows 10

“If you purchase a new Windows 8.1 device between now and then, the Windows 10 upgrade will be available to you and many retail stores will upgrade your new device for you,” read the Windows blog.

“The Windows 10 upgrade is designed to be compatible with your current Windows device and applications. We are hard at work to make this upgrade process a great experience.”

The initial release will only be available for PCs, tablets and 2-in-1 hybrid devices.

In May, Microsoft revealed there would be seven different versions of Windows 10, including desktop and mobile versions for both home and business users, versions for school and even an “Internet of Things” edition. Each version will be tailored to suit a certain type of user or device – for example, business users will have their own versions, but small companies will have a different version than larger companies.

READ MORE: Windows 10 will have 7 different editions

Windows 10 will feature Microsoft Edge, the company’s new web browser, and will have Microsoft’s voice assistant Cortana integrated into the operating system.