Microsoft Urged to Extend Windows 10 Support by Consumer Reports
▼ Summary
– Consumer Reports urges Microsoft to extend the free security updates deadline for Windows 10 beyond October 14th to avoid stranding millions of users.
– Around 46.2% of global users still rely on Windows 10 as of August 2025, with 200-400 million PCs unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware limitations.
– Consumer Reports criticizes Microsoft as hypocritical for promoting Windows 11 for cybersecurity while leaving Windows 10 vulnerable and charging $30 for a one-year security extension.
– The organization also objects to Microsoft’s free support options that require using its products, potentially increasing its market share over competitors.
– Both Consumer Reports and PIRG advocate for continued free Windows 10 support until more users can upgrade, warning that otherwise up to 400 million functional computers may be discarded.
Consumer Reports is urging Microsoft to reconsider its plan to end free security updates for Windows 10, arguing the move will leave millions of users vulnerable and force unnecessary electronic waste. The advocacy group has formally requested that the company extend support beyond the scheduled October 14 cutoff, especially for devices unable to meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11.
According to recent data, around 46.2 percent of global users still rely on Windows 10, with an estimated 200 to 400 million computers incapable of upgrading to the newer operating system. In a direct letter to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Consumer Reports criticized the company for what it calls a “hypocritical” stance on cybersecurity, promoting upgrades for safety while abandoning functional devices to potential threats.
The organization also took issue with Microsoft’s paid Extended Security Update program, which offers an additional year of protection for a fee. Describing the $30 charge as inadequate, Consumer Reports suggested the company is leveraging security concerns to push users toward its ecosystem and gain competitive advantage.
Joining the appeal, the Public Interest Research Group highlighted the environmental impact, warning that up to 400 million usable computers could be discarded prematurely if support is discontinued. Both groups are calling for free continued updates until a smoother transition to Windows 11 is feasible for all users.
(Source: The Verge)
