TITLE: Windows 10 Support Ending Creates Digital Divide Concerns
Windows 10 Support Deadline Approaches
Microsoft is preparing to end support for Windows 10, creating significant concerns about planned obsolescence and its impact on millions of users worldwide. As the October 2025 deadline approaches, the technology giant continues pushing users toward Windows 11, despite many computers being unable to meet the new operating system‘s hardware requirements.
Market Shifts and User Resistance
While Windows 11 has recently surpassed Windows 10 as the dominant desktop operating system, many users remain hesitant to upgrade. The stringent hardware requirements and design changes in Windows 11 have prompted some users to even revert to Windows 7, despite its lack of security updates. This surprising trend highlights the challenges users face in adapting to Microsoft’s new platform requirements.
Environmental and Security Implications
The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has been vocal in its opposition to Microsoft’s decision, noting that up to 400 million functional computers could become obsolete. This mass obsolescence would create substantial electronic waste while leaving millions of users vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. As reported in coverage of this issue, the environmental impact could be significant given the number of devices affected.
Limited Options for Users
Windows 10 users currently have few practical alternatives once support ends. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers temporary protection, either free through cloud synchronization or for a fee of $30. However, this solution only provides an additional 12 months of security updates, essentially delaying rather than solving the problem.
Digital Divide Concerns
The situation particularly affects vulnerable populations, including seniors, disabled individuals, and low-income households. A 2021 Census survey revealed that approximately 20% of American households lack a personal computer. For these communities, functional devices provide essential access to social services, healthcare resources, and communication tools.
Functional Devices Facing Obsolescence
Digital navigators and technology advocates note that many computers running Windows 10 remain fully functional for users’ daily needs. The primary barrier isn’t device performance but Microsoft’s hardware requirements for Windows 11. As one expert noted, people are being told they need to upgrade devices that otherwise serve their purposes perfectly well.
Uncertain Future for Millions
With 40% of global Windows PCs still running Windows 10, the impact of Microsoft’s decision will be far-reaching. Whether Microsoft will reconsider its position remains uncertain, but the consequences for digital accessibility and electronic waste are already becoming clear. The situation continues to develop as the support deadline approaches.