Microsoft promised Mac users that they’d have the new version of Office before the end of October. Looks like they weren’t lying.

While the software giant hasn’t made an official announcement about Office for Mac, the online retailer, Amazon, recently spilled the beans by posting the availability date for Office for Mac 2011. Release date: Oct. 26.

Microsoft promised the new version of Office for Mac before the end of October, and they’ll beat that. Just barely, however.

The software will come in two configurations: a one-license pack and a multi-license version. The software giant also announced the price for the package:

• Home and Student 2011: $119-149, for one and three licenses respectively, and
• Home and Business 2011: $199-249, for one- and two-license versions.

Also of note: no upgrade discounts unless you take advantage of a limited time offer on Office for Mac 2008.

Customers who purchase Office for Mac Home and Student 2008 before Nov. 30, 2010, can get a free upgrade to the 2011 version.

Depending on which version you buy and in which configuration, you’ll save money because 2008 is somewhat cheaper than the new version.

For details on the offer, visit here.

Tags: 2008, 2011, Amazon, availability, Office for Mac, upgrade