After the WannaCry ransomware attack, the authorities of India have asked Microsoft to provide a discount for Windows 10 so the more than 50 million Windows users in the country can get a cheap upgrade to the latest Windows version.
The talks with Microsoft on the discount started after the latest WannaCry outbreak, according to Gulshan Rai, India's cyber security coordinator. Rai hopes for a 'sharply discounted one-time deal'. There are even talks about 'throw-away prices', according to Reuters.
Due to the recent cyber attacks, the government of India wants consumers to upgrade their systems. Rai declined to provide further details on the expected price other than he hopes for, "less than a quarter of the current price."
Windows 10 Home currently retails for 7,999 rupees ($124) in India, while the Pro version of the software typically used by large companies and institutions costs 14,999 rupees ($232). The average monthly income in India is $295.
Windows 7 is the most used Windows version (58%) in India, according to StatCounter, followed by Windows 10 (22%). Windows XP has a market share of about 5%.
