By Salonee Kulkarni
In October 2025, Microsoft will officially announce its plan to curb support for Windows 10. Consumers can infer that to receive or continue with free security updates, they will now have to incur additional costs or subscribe to Microsoft’s special programs.
For existing consumers, the journey seems a bit easier till October 2026, as they are granted an option of paying $30 to receive security updates for an additional fee. A paid extension has been granted for the first time. Consumers have expressed a dislike towards the latest updates. Consumers feel that the system is enforced, and those whose PC’s function well are required to pay an additional amount to ensure safety.
Microsoft has absorbed the dissent expressed by consumers and has provided two alternatives. OneDrive will have a Windows Backup option so that data can be stored. The other option includes redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to ensure security support for an additional year.
Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has voiced their concern regarding the latest upgrade, pointing out the longevity of the upgrade and its feasibility on a huge number of consumer databases. Windows 11 runs on strict hardware requirements; 400 million PC’s will be unable to tick off the checkbox of every single requirement. Another sustainability issue raised is e-waste generated as a result of computers rendered unprogrammable.
The disparity between consumers and businesses has been brought to light. Highlighting that the extension granted to businesses is for three years, while the extension granted to consumers is one year. Tech specialists have argued that Microsoft should offer two to three years of extension for everyone. Another solution suggested was running ads to comply with the upgrade and ensure the safety of the device.
PIRG has urged Microsoft to take more responsibility in relation to the latest upgrade. Since Microsoft 11 won’t be able to run on older devices. This means that the landfill will generate a ton of e-waste.
The decision levied on the consumers appears to be an uncalled and coerced decision to pay a fee to ensure the security of their PC. The ongoing debate regarding the preferred solution continues.