While Microsoft had controversially ripped Windows Media Center out of Windows 8 and announced it would then charge extra for it, the firm is now trying to set things right for fans. It will make Media Center available for free for a limited time.
The offer is available now will go live tomorrow on the Windows 8 Feature Packs page on Microsoft’s new Windows web site. And yes, it works:
Update: Since posting this, the email entry form has stopped working. No worries, it will go live tomorrow, on Friday.
“If your PC is running Windows 8 Pro and you'd like to get Windows 8 Media Center Pack so you can watch and record live TV with Windows Media Center, you can take advantage of the following special offer,” the site reads. “For a limited time, get Windows 8 Media Center Pack for free.”
The offer is valid from October 26, 2012, until January 31, 2013, according to Microsoft, and is limited to one product key per email address. You qualify for this promotion if your PC is running Windows 8 Pro.
Also available on that page is the Windows 8 Pro Pack, which is a paid update for Windows 8 Core users that provides both the upgrade to Windows 8 Pro and Media Center. That feature pack will become available tomorrow.
Thanks to Pedro C. for the tip!