Windows 8 computers are available for preorder

Major computer makers announced that computers that are Windows 8-compatible now are available for preorder.

Acer, Asus, Dell, Hewlett-Packard and Sony announced Oct. 12, 2012, that consumers can reserve desktop computers or notebook computers that are installed with Microsoft’s Windows 8 computer operating system. The products will be available for pickup Oct. 26.

Windows 8, Microsoft’s latest operating system, replaces the screen-desktop user interface with one that relies on touch controls and mobile-friendly elements such as application tiles. The system will be available beginning Oct. 26 for $40 at Amazon, Best Buy, Microsoft.com, Office Depot and Staples.

Consumers who have a desktop computer or notebook computer that runs Windows 7 can upgrade to Windows 8 for $15 starting Oct. 26, as long as their computer was purchased between June 2, 2012, and Jan. 31, 2013. To redeem the discount, qualifying customers may register their computer for the Window 8 upgrade offer, and Microsoft will email a promotional code to the customer Oct. 26 that can be used to redeem the discount.