MUMBAI, INDIA: Microsoft is all set to release the latest version Windows7 - operating system (OS) globally on October 22 (Thursday). However, the company is likely to miss the OS launch in India.

The key reason that could impact the Microsoft's Windows7 release in the country is the Union Budget 2009-10, according to The Financial Express. The budget has altered the tax structure for packaged software as it directed partial exemption of packaged software from the excise duty.

Windows 7: All you want to know

Owing to this, the packaged software is taxed twice – where the software packaged media or CD will require to pay the excise duty and the software license will require to pay the service tax.

Moreover, the customs tariff also has been changed to exempt the imported packaged software for neutralizing duty and intended to overcome the dual taxation. However, this tax norms and regulations for the Microsoft's Windows7 release in India may need clearance from the Finance Ministry.

Windows 7 will change the PC industry forever

Even in past other software companies had faced the similar situation before they could release their packaged softwares in India. From the company perspective, any delay during the launch could easily affect the business and incur loss too.

The present situation could affect Microsoft's retail sale of its Windows7 in India. However, for large businesses and enterprises that may not be the case as there's high possibility of software up gradation over the Internet.   

Windows 7 is a result of consumer feedback

When contacted by CyberMedia News, a Microsoft spokesperson stated that the issue does not impact Microsoft alone but it impacts the entire IT industry. Microsoft hasn't directly got in touch with the Government of India, but has approached Nasscom, the spokesperson added.

“We had consulted Nasscom and the body has taken up this issue with the government. However, our OEM partners will be launching the Windows7 with their machines as well as the enterprises will upgrade to the latest version,” she clarified.

Further, she pointed out that off-the-shelf software pack may not be available immediately in India but hoped and expected the issue to get resolved at the earliest with the government.

©CyberMedia News