New Zealand and Australia Get First Dibs on Windows 7

The first people in the word who will be able to get their hands on Windows 7 is New Zealanders and Australians.

Windows 7 will first hit New Zealand than Australia because of the countries placement on the International Date Line. Microsoft announced last week that Windows 7 will be released October 22 2009.

"Our understanding at this time is that the availability of Windows 7 will 'follow the sun' on Thursday October 22, As such, we're excited that the first retail sales globally of Windows 7 will take place in New Zealand and Australia as we cross the dateline ahead of other markets." A Microsoft spokesman said last week

A large amount of Australian firms including National Australia Bank, Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Centrelink have already started examining Windows 7 are looking into upgrading to Windows 7.

Microsoft Australia could not confirm what upgrade programs will be available to locals. Without giving details, Microsoft said it plans to offer some sort of "technology guarantee" giving those who buy Vista machines close to the Windows 7 launch a free or discounted copy of the new operating system.

As with past versions of Windows pricing of Windows 7 is up to computer manufacturers (as long as Microsoft gets paid).