Buying a new computer but afraid you'll get caught in a few months by the Windows 8 upgrade cycle? Fear not. According to a report from Paul Thurrott, Microsoft will launch a promotion in June that allows new PC purchasers to lock-in an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $14.99.

Microsoft typically offers upgrade deals in advance of its new operating system releases. But unlike the last upgrade cycle—when Microsoft offered free upgrades to corresponding versions of Windows 7 to buyers of systems pre-loaded with Windows Vista—there will only be two consumer versions of Windows 8 for PCs. The entry-level Windows 8 will lack support for Windows Media Center (which will be sold separately), encryption, and other high-end features.

So instead of a free pass, Microsoft will be offering a paid upgrade to the Pro version of Windows 8 to anyone who buys a system with at least Windows 7 Home Basic installed—up-selling new PC buyers to the professional/enthusiast feature set. Microsoft will also offer boxed upgrade "packs," including versions of Windows 8 Pro bundled with Windows Media Center, but no pricing has been revealed for these new buyer upgrades.