How To Update Windows 8.1 To Windows 10 Free

Yes, there's still a way to get Windows 10 for costless.

screenshot by Lance Whitney/CNET

Editors' note, Nov. iii, 2017: This story was updated to specify that the gratuitous upgrade for those seeking assistive technologies volition elapse December. 31. Subsequently that, all users will need to pay for the Windows ten upgrade, which starts at $119.

Microsoft hasn't yet closed the door all the way for those in search of a Windows 10 freebie.

Until Dec. 31, you can go your hands on a no-cost upgrade to Windows ten through an exception made for those who seek assistive technologies.

You qualify for the costless upgrade if you use assistive technologies, which include such features as a magnifier to ameliorate see the screen, a narrator to read text aloud, keyboard shortcuts and an on-screen keyboard. Such tech is "designed to provide additional accessibility to individuals who have physical or cognitive difficulties, impairments, and disabilities," co-ordinate to Microsoft.

Post-obit the trials and tribulations of Windows 8, Microsoft has been working hard to coax people to jump to Windows ten. The gratis upgrade offer for users of Windows seven and 8.1 was a huge function of the company'southward strategy to button Windows ten. That freebie has since expired and people must now pay $119 for the Home edition or $199 for the Pro edition -- with the exception of assistive tech users.

Here's how to go the upgrade at no accuse:

From a Windows 7 or 8.ane device, go to the webpage entitled "Windows 10 free upgrade for customers who use assistive technologies." Click on the Upgrade now button. Run the executable file to install the upgrade.

Microsoft then displays a series of screens that take y'all step by step through the setup process. Follow the screens until Windows 10 is comfortably nestled into your device.

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At no indicate during the upgrade does Microsoft inquire for proof that you actually use whatever of the assistive technologies. So the upgrade could be attainable to whatever Windows seven or 8.1 user who nonetheless wants to get Windows x for free.

"As we shared before, nosotros've extended the free upgrade offer for those who use assistive technology," a Microsoft spokeswoman told CNET. "That said, information technology is not intended to be a workaround for people who don't use assistive technology and who missed the deadline for the free offer."

The borderline for the complimentary offer for users of assistive technologies, is Dec. 31, 2017.

Update, 9:15 a.m. PT: Adds comment from Microsoft.