Latest reports claim that Windows 10 will be coming to Windows 7 and 8 users by simply updating their computer's OS without the need to reformat the system. Moreover, the OS will be available for free to Windows 8.1 users. 

Windows 10 will be available as a direct upgrade for Windows 7 and 8, while machines still running older versions of Windows like Vista and XP will need full reformat and reinstall. According to an official tweet by Gabriel Aul, the Engineering General Manager for the Operating Systems Group at Microsoft, the new Windows OS support full upgrade installation paths are absent in older Windows. 

Microsoft rolled out the Technical Preview of Windows 10 last year aimed for testing and feedback. The Redmond-based tech giant encouraged testers to provide feedback about the OS, which will be useful for developers in continuously improving the software before its official release. The developers aim for a smooth release and to sweep the bugs off the OS. According to Smart Company, 1.5 million users participated in the test preview which led to 1,300 bugs fixed. 

Meanwhile, Microsoft will release the Windows 10 Consumer Preview in its event scheduled on Jan. 21. At the event, the company will start its Windows Insider Program. 

Windows 10 will include new key features such as the reintroduction of the start menu in the desktop that Windows 8 did away with. Some users did not like this move by Micrsoft that is why the company is bringing it back. The OS will also feature universal apps and a unified app store for both Windows 10 and Windows Phone OS. This will allow a single version of the app to work on both desktop and mobile devices. In addition, the operating system will feature Linux-style multiple desktops that will enable users to switch between apps and files. 

Microsoft's chief operating officer Kevin Turner confirmed that Windows 10 is still on track and the Developer Preview is bound for release in early summer, giving app makers ample time to tweak their respective apps. Microsoft is expected to take the wraps off Windows 10 this fall.