Microsoft finally confirmed that its new Windows 7 would be launched on October 22 this year. The company’s representative said that the folks over at Microsoft are putting up the final touches of the new operating system by the middle or end of next month.

“The feedback from the release candidate has been good,” said Microsoft Senior Vice President Bill Veghte.

Microsoft made available the near-to-completion final version of Windows 7 last month, and shortly after that said release, Microsoft made another announcement and said that it is slated to release the official version of the OS by October.

Phil McKinney, chief technology officer of Hewlett-Packard’s computer unit, said he feels good about the chosen release date of Microsoft.

“We’re locked and loaded for the launch. The quality of code is just absolutely stellar,” McKinney was quoted as saying.

Microsoft also disclosed, although without further confirmation from its big bosses, that those who would purchase a Vista close to the launch date of Windows 7 might get a free copy of the OS, or they could get it at a discounted price.

Like with past softwares, the price of the Windows 7 will depend on individual computer makers. But they said that the update program will apply to Vista Home Premium and its other high-priced editions (note that this does not include Vista Basic).

Microsoft also said that it would offer low upgrade rates to those who are already using the Vista.

It added that Windows 7 will come out in five editions—Starter, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate.

There will also be a “Windows 7 Basic” in some markets, according to Microsoft.

No price has been announced so far.