It was reported on March 26 that Microsoft has begun sending upgrade reminder emails to Windows 10 users. These emails clearly indicate that all technical support for the system will cease on October 14, 2025.
According to recent data from StatCounter, this decision will impact 58.7% of PCs globally, which will stop receiving security updates after the deadline. Notably, because of Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements, around 80% of current Windows 10 devices are unable to upgrade directly.
In an official email, Microsoft suggested two options: buying compatible devices via the "Trade-in" program or choosing the old device recycling service. Even though devices can still function after support ends, systems lacking security patches will be vulnerable to ongoing network threats.
This "mandatory upgrade" strategy has stirred debate within the industry. Windows 10, being Microsoft's most successful operating system ever, boasted a global installation base exceeding 1.3 billion devices at its peak. Over its nine-year lifespan, it rolled out pioneering features like the WSL Linux subsystem and cross-device collaboration tools. Moreover, it established a standard for ongoing updates via the "Windows as a Service" (WaaS) model.
When Microsoft launched Windows 11 in 2021, they introduced strict hardware requirements including the TPM 2.0 chip. This move effectively excluded many devices that were still operational from being eligible for the upgrade.
Market data indicates that although Windows 11 has been available for almost three years, its market share is only 38.13%, which is significantly lower than the dominance achieved by Windows 10. This transitional phase in the market underscores the urgency of the upcoming October support termination deadline.
Industry experts highlight that while Microsoft's initiative might boost PC upgrade demand, it imposes substantial migration costs on educational institutions and corporate users. Critics contend that this policy overlooks the sustainability value of electronic devices, noting that many discarded devices are still functional for over five years.
