Microsoft is reportedly working on creating a free version of its operating software Windows 8.1.

According to reports, Microsoft is currently experimenting with different ways to offer Windows 8.1 for free.

"We're told that Microsoft is aiming to position Windows 8.1 with Bing as a free or low-cost upgrade for Windows 7 users," The Verge reports. "Any upgrade offers will be focused on boosting the number of people using Windows 8.1."

Apparently, Microsoft is hoping that its Windows 8.1 with Bing experiment will help make Bing become even more profitable.

"Windows and Windows Phone are seen internally as being powered, at least in part, by Bing," ZDNet reports. "Maybe, as crazy as this might have once sounded -- and still may sound -- they'll be monetized by Bing, moving forward, as well."

Still, there is reason to be skeptical about at how profitable this experiment can really be.

"...that argument ignores the current reality where those apps and services are available as 'part' of the OS," ZDNet said. "Microsoft's OneDrive; Bing Maps and other Bing apps; Xbox music streaming; Bing SmartSearch; and the core Office apps (for Windows RT users) all currently ship for free with Windows 8. And OneDrive, Bing, Xbox music streaming and Mobile Office all ship for free with Windows Phone 8."

According to ZDNet, Microsoft is working on eliminating the OS licensing for Windows OEMS. The Verge says that this will be a 70 percent price cut available for devices that cost less than $250. Microsoft is also allegedly thinking about making a new version of Windows Phone that is either free or very cheap.

The company has yet to officially announce or discuss Windows 8.1 with Bing. Updates or price cuts to Windows Phone have also not been officially discussed.

The first Windows 8.1 update debuts this spring.

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