If you were wondering, the free product key to install Windows 8 Media Center Pack has an expiration date, and that is January 31st. No surprise here that the offer also coincide with the end of the Microsoft’s promotional offer to get Windows 8 Pro upgrade for $39.99 and $14.99 for those who purchase a new PC between June 2nd and January 31st, 2013.
Today Microsoft sent out an email to all those who requested a free product key and reminded all users that they “must” install the feature by January 31st. Here is the original message, plus fine print:
“This is a reminder that you must activate your free Windows 8 Media Center Pack product key** by January 31, 2013”.
“This promotion ends on January 31, 2013; your product key must be activated no later than February 1, 2013.”
This means that if you are running Windows 8 Pro and you want the additional features such as: play DVDs, watch and record live TV, you should take advantage of the offer now. Starting February 1st the pack will cost $9.99.
Instructions
Follow these steps to install Media Center in Windows 8 Pro:
1. Go to the Start screen and just type add features, and then tap or click Settings from the right pane.
2. Click Add features to Windows 8.
3. Then tap or click I already have a product key.
4. Type the product key, and then click Next.
5. Accept the license terms, and then click Add features.
After a moment your PC will restart automatically and Windows Media Center will be added to your installation.
Haven’t you requested your free product key? Time is running out, head over to the Microsoft’s web page, enter your email address and take advantage of this limited time offer.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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