Microsoft giving away gift cards if you'll buy a Windows 8/8.1 device for the holidays

The official holiday shopping season kicked off last week and reached full speed today with Cyber Monday. Like every year, Microsoft hopes to see a Windows product on everyone's wish list. This year the company is even planning to throw in a little something extra to sweeten the deal.

The software and services company is announcing that starting now, and running through December 28th, anyone who purchases a new touch PC or tablet is eligible for a shiny new gift card to go along with it. The card can be used to purchase any app or game in the Windows Store.

Microsoft also points out that, "Windows Store gift cards are also available for purchase in over 25 markets from more than 100 retailers, enabling you to buy apps and games online directly from the Windows Store, the Windows Phone Store and select Xbox stores".

The Windows Store now boasts more than 100,000 apps and is steadily growing. The deal runs just past the holiday for those who receive the product on that day, or perhaps in hopes of snagging a few people who return that Apple device in exchange for one from Microsoft.