Microsoft has announced a special upgrade package for its customers by offering a Windows 8 Pro download for just $39.99 – around £25.

The offer apples to those who run Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7, and will be made available in “131 markets”. The UK has not been specified as one of the beneficiaries, though other sources believe it is “highly likely” the offer will apply on our shores.

Announcing the move, an official Windows blogger confirmed, “If you are upgrading from Windows Vista, you will be able to bring along your Windows settings and personal files, and if you are upgrading from Windows XP you will only be able to bring along your personal files.”

The upgrade promotion for Windows 8 Pro both online and at retail runs through to January 31st, 2013. That should leave a good four months for Windows users to take advantage, with the new platform expected to be launched around October this year.

Windows 8 Pro is set to offer enhanced features and tools compared to its standard Windows 8 counterpart as the two are released in tandem. Microsoft has confirmed that the latter will be available in the UK for £14.99 as an upgrade for those who buy a Windows 7 PC between 2 June and 31 January, 2013.

For a colourful and comprehensive lowdown on the exciting operating system, check out James Laird’s report from Amsterdam last week, as he was invited out to Microsoft’s TechEd Europe event to get acquainted with the latest Windows incarnation.