Microsoft under scrutiny: Consumer Reports challenges CEO Satya Nadella to offer a complimentary Windows 10 support extension for approximately 400 million computers
Microsoft's decision to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, has raised concerns among consumers and consumer advocacy groups, with accusations of hypocrisy for promoting Windows 11 as a cybersecurity upgrade while potentially leaving millions of PCs vulnerable.
According to recent data, around 46.2% of PCs worldwide are still running Windows 10, translating to approximately 646.8 million PCs. However, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) estimates that around 400 million of these PCs are unable to upgrade to Windows 11.
Consumer Reports, a well-known consumer advocacy organisation, has been vocal about the potential risks of ending support for Windows 10. In a letter sent to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Consumer Reports warned that doing so would strand millions of consumers, potentially leaving them exposed to malicious attacks.
The report argues that the available alternatives to extend Windows 10's lifeline, such as paying for extra support through Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, aren't viable solutions for many users. The ESU program offers an extra year of support for up to $30, but Microsoft requires users to earn Microsoft Rewards points, which can be obtained by using Microsoft products like Bing and Xbox.
Consumer Reports is also asking Microsoft to put elaborate measures in place to recycle the PCs that users will abandon when switching from Windows 10 to Windows 11. They suggest that purchasing new hardware, such as Copilot+ PCs, could be an option for users.
In response to these concerns, Microsoft has unveiled its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 users. However, the free option to enroll in this program requires users to use Microsoft products like Bing and Xbox to earn the required Microsoft Rewards points.
The PIRG petitioned Microsoft in 2023 to reconsider its decision, estimating that up to 400 million PCs will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11. Continuing to run Windows 10 on unsupported devices could expose them to malicious attacks, making this issue a significant cybersecurity concern.
Microsoft informed consumers about ending support for Windows 10 when launching Microsoft 365 in 2021. As the deadline approaches, the call for action from consumer advocacy groups continues to grow, urging Microsoft to reconsider its decision and provide a more accessible solution for all users.
Read also:
- Transforming Digital Inventories in the Food Industry: A Comprehensive Guide for Food Businesses
- Munich Airport Unveils Its New Electrical Vehicle Charging Parksite
- 1. Key Points for August 14: Gathering in Alaska, Immigration Enforcement (ICE), Financial service Zelle, Infowars, and Air Canada Airline Incidents
- Automobile manufacturer IM Motors reveals an extended-range powertrain akin to installing an internal combustion engine in a Tesla Model Y.
