What's happened
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft ended free security and feature updates for Windows 10, urging users to upgrade to Windows 11. To encourage adoption, Microsoft introduced new AI-powered features in Windows 11, including voice-activated Copilot and Copilot Vision. Millions still use Windows 10, raising concerns about security risks and electronic waste.
What's behind the headline?
Security and Upgrade Challenges
Microsoft's end of support for Windows 10 marks a significant shift for millions of users worldwide still reliant on the older OS. While Windows 10 will continue to function, the lack of security patches exposes users to increased cyber threats. The stricter hardware requirements of Windows 11 have left many users without a straightforward upgrade path, forcing difficult choices between security risks, costly hardware upgrades, or paying for extended support.
AI Integration as a Strategic Incentive
Microsoft’s rollout of AI features like voice-activated Copilot and Copilot Vision in Windows 11 aims to make the new OS more attractive. Positioning voice as the "third input mechanism" after mouse and keyboard signals a strategic bet on AI to redefine PC interaction. However, adoption may be slow due to privacy concerns and workplace etiquette around voice commands.
Environmental and Economic Implications
The end of Windows 10 support risks accelerating electronic waste as users discard incompatible devices. Consumer advocates warn this creates both security and environmental problems. Microsoft's push for recycling and extended security updates attempts to mitigate these issues but may not fully address the scale of the challenge.
Gaming and Hardware Innovation
Separately, Microsoft and Asus’s ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming device, running Windows 11, showcases the company’s push to blend gaming and productivity on portable hardware. Despite some early software hiccups, it represents a new frontier in Windows-powered devices, potentially driving Windows 11 adoption among gamers.
Outlook
Users must act swiftly to secure their devices, either by upgrading to Windows 11, enrolling in extended support, or exploring alternatives like Linux. Microsoft's AI-driven Windows 11 features will likely accelerate adoption but face hurdles in user acceptance and hardware compatibility. The transition period will be critical for balancing security, user experience, and environmental impact.
What the papers say
The South China Morning Post and Bloomberg highlight Microsoft's introduction of AI features in Windows 11, such as voice-activated Copilot and Copilot Vision, framing these as transformative for PC interaction. The Independent and AP News emphasize the end of Windows 10 support and the security risks for millions still using the older OS, quoting consumer advocates like Brenna Stevens who warn of the trade-offs users face between cyber risks and hardware replacement. The Guardian and Gulf News focus on the scale of users affected, with Which? survey data showing many UK users intend to continue using Windows 10 despite risks, and Gulf News detailing the UAE context and upgrade options. Ars Technica provides a technical perspective on Microsoft's tightening of Windows setup processes and the challenges in transitioning users to Windows 11, including the Microsoft account requirement. Meanwhile, Ars Technica and The Guardian also review the ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming device, noting its Windows 11 base and mixed user experience, illustrating Microsoft's broader hardware strategy. The NY Post captures user sentiment around Windows 10's retirement, reflecting nostalgia and resistance to upgrading. Together, these sources paint a comprehensive picture of a major OS transition with technological innovation, user challenges, and environmental concerns all intertwined.
How we got here
Windows 10, launched in 2015, was Microsoft's widely adopted OS, but Windows 11, released in 2021, requires newer hardware, leaving many users on Windows 10. Microsoft’s decade-long support for Windows 10 has now ended, pushing users to upgrade or pay for extended security updates.
Go deeper
- What are the new AI features in Windows 11?
- How can Windows 10 users stay secure after support ends?
- What is the ROG Xbox Ally X and how does it relate to Windows 11?
Common question
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What Does the End of Windows 10 Support Mean for You?
Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10 as of October 14, 2025. This means that while your device will still work, it will no longer receive security updates or technical support. Many users are wondering what this change means for their safety, device performance, and options moving forward. Below, we answer the most common questions about this transition and help you understand what steps you should take next.
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What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends?
Microsoft officially ended free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This means no more security updates or patches, leaving millions of users vulnerable to cyber threats. Many are wondering what their options are—should they upgrade, stick with their current system, or look for alternatives? Below, we answer the most common questions about Windows 10's end of support and what it means for you.
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What Does the End of Windows 10 Support Mean for Users?
Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10 as of October 14, 2025. This means no more free security updates or new features for the popular OS, prompting many users to consider their next move. If you're still on Windows 10, you might be wondering what risks you face, whether you should upgrade now, and what new features await in Windows 11. Below, we answer the most common questions about this major transition and help you navigate your options.
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What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends? Risks and Next Steps
Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10 as of October 14, 2025. This means no more free security updates or features, raising questions about security risks, environmental impact, and what users should do next. Many still rely on Windows 10, but what are the consequences of sticking with an outdated OS? Here, we explore the implications and guide you through your options.
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