Hong Kong, January 23, 2007 - Microsoft Hong Kong is preparing to release new versions of Windows and Office together for first time since 1995, delivering significant advancements that will transform the way people use technology to communicate, connect to communities, create and share content, and access information and entertainment.

On Saturday, 3 February 2007, the first retail copies of Windows Vista™ and 2007 Microsoft Office system will go on sale in retail outlets throughout the Hong Kong SAR, with a special first-day sale event at Times Square Fortress.

For one day only at the Times Square branch of Fortress, the first person to purchase Windows Vista Ultimate Edition on 3 February will receive a copy with a digital autograph by Microsoft® co-founder Bill Gates. To further reward loyal customers, the first 500 buyers will receive a gift of a set of two exclusive commemorative crystal blocks. Microsoft is also offering 100 copies of each of Windows Vista Ultimate Edition and the 2007 Microsoft Office system Home and Student Edition* at HK$699 on a first-come-first-served basis.

Microsoft will also create an unforgettable experience for consumers at Times Square's ground floor piazza, with a public roadshow starting at 2:30PM featuring some of Hong Kong's favorite pop stars, and elaborate booths with loads of demonstrations and games from launch partners including Canon, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, Lenovo, and many more. Participants will stand to win many attractive prizes.

Leading up to the 3 February launch, Microsoft is also inviting customers to 'Show Us Your "Wow"' with an exciting online competition at www.showusyourwow.com. To enter the competition, contestants simply submit their "Wow" digital photos or videos depicting incredible, exhilarating and amazing experiences to the website. One finalist from Hong Kong will win their choice of a deluxe Windows Vista ultimate desktop and monitor or laptop, and be selected to compete for the Grand Prize: a high-definition video camera and a seven-day trip for two to experience their choice of the world's most stunning vistas: Sydney's Harbor Bridge and Opera House; China's Great Wall, India's Taj Mahal,; New York's Empire State Building, or Paris' Eiffel Tower.

For more information about the programs, call (852) 2388 9600.

* this offer only applies to English and Chinese versions of Windows Vista Ultimate Edition and the Chinese version of 2007 Microsoft Office system Home and Student Edition


About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services, and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. The Microsoft Hong Kong office was established in 1991.

Microsoft and Windows Vista are either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries. Other product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners