03-07-2025
Consumer group slams Microsoft for leaving Windows 10 users stuck without options
Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025. After that, users won't get security updates unless they pay or pick special options. One option Microsoft gave is to pay $30 for one more year of security updates, till October is a first-time offer for regular users, and not everyone is happy about it, as mentioned in the report by TechRadar.
Now, Microsoft added two new ways to avoid paying $30: Use the Windows Backup app to save your data to OneDrive. Or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points instead of cash. But the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) says that's not good enough. PIRG fights against tech waste and supports longer product life, according to the report.
Many old PCs can't upgrade to Windows 11
PIRG's Lucas Rockett Gutterman says 400 million PCs can't upgrade to Windows 11. These older PCs will be 'junked' just because they don't meet Windows 11's strict hardware rules. Gutterman believes Microsoft should do more, like give longer support for Windows 10 automatically or make Windows 11 work on older PCs, as per the report by TechRadar.
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He also said most people feel confused and frustrated. 'Users feel yanked around,' and these updates won't fix the bigger problem. Tech expert Darren Allan thinks adding the Backup app option is a positive step. But it's still not enough to solve the long-term problem, according to the reports.
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Experts say one year of support isn't enough
He points out businesses get 3 years of extra updates, while consumers only get one. That's unfair, especially with so many PCs still working fine. He suggests Microsoft should think about giving 2–3 more years of updates to consumers. Even if ads were added in return, it might be worth it, according to the report by TechRadar.
The bigger issue is preventing e-waste, says both PIRG and Darren Allan. Millions of devices could end up in landfills even though they still work well. Conclusion: PIRG and experts agree Microsoft must take more responsibility. A single year of support and minor options aren't enough to stop a major tech waste crisis, as per the reports.
FAQs
Q1. What will happen to Windows 10 after October 2025?
Microsoft will stop free security updates for Windows 10 after October 2025, unless users pay or choose new options.
Q2. Can old PCs upgrade to Windows 11?
Most older PCs can't upgrade to Windows 11 due to strict hardware rules set by Microsoft.
