Windows anytime upgrade is no longer available for online purchase

Microsoft Announces End-of-Sale for Windows Anytime Upgrade Online Purchases

As part of ongoing efforts to streamline its product offerings and focus resources on more innovative endeavors, Microsoft has announced that it will no longer be selling Windows Anywhere Upgrades online starting immediately.

For those who may not be familiar with this particular feature, the Windows Anytime Upgrade allowed users running a lower edition of Windows 10 (such as Home) to upgrade directly within their system to either Professional or Enterprise without having to perform a full operating system reinstallation. This proved especially convenient for individuals and businesses looking to scale up their software capabilities while avoiding costly hardware upgrades.

Eligibility Criteria

While the ability to purchase these upgrades will soon be limited, existing customers who purchased qualifying devices prior to specific cutoff dates can still take advantage of this offer through other channels. The following models remain eligible:

* iPhone 12 series (iPhone 10R5G not included)

+ iPhone 12 Pro Max

+ iPhone XS

+ iPhone XR

Samsung Galaxy S10 users are also covered, provided they acquired their device before October 13th, 2020.

Apple's newer generation of iPhones – the iPhone 11 line (iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max) - will continue to be supported if purchased prior to October 15th last year. For those with older devices like the iPhone XS, XS Max or XR who bought their device before September 12th in 2019 still have time.

How To Upgrade

If you're looking to take advantage of this offer but don't yet possess a product key, fear not! Microsoft provides an alternative route through its online store. Here are the steps:

1. Open either your Start menu or Start screen.

2. Type 'Activation' into the search bar and select Activation from the results list.

You'll then be directed to Microsoft's Store page where you can purchase a license for Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise depending on your needs.

After completing this process, simply follow these final steps:

1. Click 'Go to Store' at the top right corner of the next window.

2. Log in with your existing Microsoft account details if prompted (or create one free-of-charge).

3. Once logged-in click 'Upgrade now'.

The upgrade will begin automatically within minutes; you may need to restart your device once complete.

While this news might seem somewhat underwhelming for some users, it's worth noting that the shift towards more recent operating systems like Windows 11 has been gaining momentum over time anyway – especially given its numerous performance enhancements and security patches compared to earlier versions. Still, we hope these guidelines prove helpful in ensuring a smooth transition into whatever Microsoft has lined up next!

Windows anytime upgrade is no longer available for online purchase