Windows 10 Launches This Summer, Microsoft Partners with Xiaomi and Lenovo

Following the news of Internet Explorer’s demise, Microsoft today announced the availability of Windows 10 this summer, across 190 countries in 111 languages. Microsoft made the announcement at its Windows Hardware Engineering Community (WinHEC) summit in China, the biggest consumer electronics market in the world and a haven for piracy. Given the case, it makes sense for Microsoft to court Chinese consumers.

Microsoft previously hinted that it would offer free Windows 10 upgrades to customers with computers running Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows Phone 8.1. The company renewed that commitment today, saying that it will offer Windows 10 upgrades for free during the first year of its release. By doing so, Microsoft hopes to counter the rampant freebooting in China and around the world.

But to make that possible, Microsoft needs the right partners. Microsoft is now partnering with Lenovo, Tencent, Qihu 360, and Xiaomi, one of the best smartphone manufacturers today. Lenovo promised to offer free Windows 10 upgrades at its 2,500 service centers and stores in China, while Tencent said that it plans to offer Windows 10 as a free upgrade to its customers. Meanwhile, Xiaomi said that owners of its Mi 4 smartphone will be able to test Windows 10 later this year.

Microsoft also announced an exclusive feature on Windows 10 called Windows Hello, a biometric authentication that provides instant access to Windows 10 devices. The feature allows users to use their face or finger to authenticate applications and content. The company also revealed a new programming system called Passport for IT professionals and software developers. According to Microsoft, Passport in Windows 10 authenticates websites and networks without passwords.