On 27/10/2012 I bought windows 8 pro from PC World in the UK and it installed o.k. with no problem. When it came to using the product key for the Pro Pack it tells me that
I can't use this key and will have to purchase a new one.
I spent 45 minutes speaking to Microsoft Technical Support (as advised by PC World after contacting them straight away) and verifying that the key I was given in an empty box was not blocked or activated, I was no further forward in making it work.
It still does not work and then I found on the Microsoft website that I could get a free Windows 8 Media Center Pack product key, but it will cease to work in January 2013 unless
you purchase it. After receiving a key by e-mail the media player installed and worked perfectly.
I have asked Microsoft for another key or my money refunded.
See what happens………
no, the windows media center free offer starts from october 26, 2012 to january 31, 2013.
after that date, windows media center becomes a paid app.
request for free windows media center here:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/feature-packs
* Offer valid from October 26, 2012, until January 31, 2013, and is limited to five licenses per customer per promotion. To install
Windows 8 Pro Pack, you must be running
Windows 8. Internet access fees may apply. Prices shown are estimated retail prices; actual price may vary by retailer. If you purchase a new PC with
Windows 8 preinstalled and you later upgrade that PC with
Windows 8 Pro Pack,
Windows 8 Media Center Pack, a volume license edition, or a retail edition, you will no longer be able to install apps that are provided exclusively from your PC manufacturer through the Windows Store.
Get the full details on our special offers.
** Windows 8 Media Center Pack is available at no charge for a limited time only through this promotional page on Windows.com. If you obtain
Windows 8 Media Center Pack through any other location fees might apply. Offer valid from October 26, 2012, until January 31, 2013, and is limited to one product key per email address. You qualify for this promotion if
your PC is running Windows 8 Pro. Additional hardware may be required to watch and record live TV. You must provide a valid email address to receive your
Windows 8 Media Center Pack product key. Your product key must be activated no later than January 31, 2013. Microsoft will only contact you at the email address you provide to send you your product key and to remind you
when the activation period for your product key is ending. Catalysis Corporation is a third-party company we use to collect subscription information and process the delivery of these emails. If you purchase a new PC with
Windows 8 preinstalled and you later upgrade that PC with
Windows 8 Pro Pack,
Windows 8 Media Center Pack, a volume license edition, or a retail edition, you will no longer be able to install apps that are provided exclusively from your PC manufacturer through the Windows Store.