Microsoft has kicked of its Windows 8 launch with a special offer where the company will be offering Windows 8 Pro with Media Center included for free.

To try and compete with third-party developers who are building media software for Windows 8 the company will be selling a license for Media Center separately however for a limited time punters can get hold of the add-on for absolutely free.

The company launched its new operating system yesterday evening with customers now able to download or go and buy Windows 8 for PC or tablet.

Pricing for Windows 8 in the UK starts at £14.99 for those who are part of the eligable Windows 8 upgrade offer while those who want to take advantage of the free Media Center offer will need to grab a copy of Windows 8 Pro which is selling for £49.99.

The company also launched its Microsoft Surface tablet, the first new piece of hardware from Microsoft since the Xbox 360. Running a tablet-optomised version of the OS, Windows RT, the Surface will run all Windows 8 apps but is unable to run previous generation software.

As a way of making up for that Microsoft is throwing in a special touch-optomised version of Office Home & Student 2013 RT Preview for free.