The Windows Family Pack offer has ended. Microsoft offered the software for a mere $150 but the offer expired at about the end of November, 2009. The sudden expiration of the so-called limited offer has sparked the anger of some consumers. Some have been waiting to get a copy when they first heard of the limited discount. Other consumers complain that the stores where they were looking for the Family Pack had earlier told them that all copies had been sold already and supplies should arrive soon. Supplies did not come. With the rest of the available copies pulled out from other stores, there would be no other opportunity to get the Windows Family Pack Limited Edition.

Shops that still have copies of the Family Pack are taking advantage of the situation. They increased the prices at a 90% rate. This should inspire more outrage from consumers.

Microsoft's limited offer

Microsoft’s limited offer started last October 22, 2009, a little before Windows 7’s retail launch. The offer enables consumers to upgrade up to 3 PCs to Windows 7 Home Premium. Those who did manage to get copies were able to save a whooping $210 each. According to Microsoft, the offer will continue "while supplies lasted." However, it was never announced just how many copies were to be sold at the limited offer price.

Rumors regarding the pull out of MS Windows Family Pack

Microsoft had offered discounted software before. Last summer, Windows 7 Home Premium was up for grabs at $49.99. There are some conflicts as to when the Family Pack will be pulled out. There were reports that said December 1 and there were those who claim that the offer had expired as far back as November 26. Even Microsoft Store was reportedly out of stock for two weeks already before word began spreading about the end of the offer.

Several sellers are increasing their copies’ prices dramatically while other owners are selling their own copies at Ebay, from $225 to $255. With the Family Pack gone, at least on its limited offer price, consumers have to pay more than double the price to upgrade three PCs.

The consumers' reaction and possible consequences

The pull out is quite unexpected and shocking because consumers believed that such an offer should continue until the end of the holidays. With Christmas just around the corner, some technology bloggers could only call Microsoft a real Scrooge. Other bloggers believe that the decision is mistimed and downright stupid. Because of its move, Microsoft may lose some buyers and admirers. If people start looking elsewhere because of this stunted offer, Microsoft will feel the people’s disappointment.

During the holidays, offers should abound. When an offer ends weeks before Christmas, consumers cannot help but wonder if waiting on Microsoft’s next move is wise, after all.