Microsoft to start Vista & Office 2007 coupon plan for PC buyers

Microsoft will begin with a Vista & Office 2007 coupon program for personal computer this week. Buyers with a coupon can upgrade to the new Vista operating system when it premiers next year. This way, the company hopes to prevent a drop-off in PC sales over the holidays.

The upgrade program will begin on October 26 and includes Windows Vista & the Office 2007 software suite.

The program allows customers who buy a PC running Windows XP to still be able to upgrade to Windows Vista when the new operating system becomes available in early 2007. A similar program is in place for Office 2007, also due out early next year to consumers.