ChromeOS Archives

Winsage

September 21, 2025

Windows 10 Upgrade Guide: How to delay, avoid or survive the switch to Windows 11

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ceasing to provide new patches and security updates. Users can enroll in the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates program to receive critical security updates for an additional year, until October 2026, for a fee. Alternatively, users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for a free year of updates or use the Windows Backup App to qualify for the free updates. Upgrading to Windows 11 is free if the PC meets the system requirements. Users whose PCs do not qualify for Windows 11 may consider replacing their device or exploring other operating systems like macOS, ChromeOS, or Linux. Nearly half of all Windows PCs globally still run Windows 10, highlighting the potential security risks of remaining on an unsupported operating system.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Farewell, Windows 10!

On October 14, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, ceasing new features, security updates, or bug fixes. Users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 or purchase a new device. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers security updates for an additional year beyond October 2025, available for free with a Microsoft account or for a fee of 1,000 Microsoft reward points. Alternatives to Windows 10 include Linux distributions and Google's ChromeOS, with WINUX being a notable Linux option that resembles Windows. Recommended devices for those considering a new purchase include the ASUS Zenbook A14, priced around 9, and the Microsoft Surface Pro 11, priced around ,399.99.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Refurbished Windows 10 PCs on the ‘Back Market’ combat Microsoft’s programmed obsolescence with ChromeOS and Linux

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting approximately 400 million PCs that cannot upgrade to Windows 11. The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) warns this could lead to a significant increase in discarded computers. Microsoft is offering Extended Support Updates (ESU) but critics view these as temporary solutions. Companies like HP and Dell report that about half of the global PC market still relies on Windows 10, leading to accusations of planned obsolescence. Back Market is addressing this issue by offering refurbished laptops pre-installed with Google’s Chrome OS Flex, although only 50 units are available. They emphasize the environmental impact of planned obsolescence and suggest users consider alternative operating systems or participate in repair communities to extend the lifespan of their devices.

Winsage

September 16, 2025

PSA: You have less than one month to retire your Windows 10 PC — or take action NOW to keep it supported and secure

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, ending new features, bug fixes, and security updates. Users can enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to receive security updates until October 14, 2026, by accessing the Windows Update section in Settings. Enrollment requires a Microsoft account and may involve a fee or using Microsoft reward points. Users can also upgrade to Windows 11 if their hardware meets the requirements, or consider alternatives like ChromeOS Flex and Linux Ubuntu, which are free and compatible with many Windows 10 devices.

Winsage

September 15, 2025

Can’t upgrade your Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options – and just weeks to act

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ceasing technical support, security updates, and reliability fixes. Users will have several options, including: 1. Extended Security Updates (ESUs): Available on a subscription basis for up to three years, with varying costs for educational institutions and businesses. 2. Buying a New PC or Renting a Virtual PC: Users can opt to purchase new hardware or rent a virtual PC through Windows 365. 3. Upgrading Incompatible Hardware to Windows 11: Users can bypass compatibility checks to upgrade systems, though this carries risks. 4. Transitioning to Linux or ChromeOS Flex: Users may choose to switch to a different operating system. 5. Continuing to Use Windows 10: Some may decide to ignore the end-of-support deadline, which poses security risks.

Winsage

September 12, 2025

Can’t Run Windows 11? Here’s What You Should Do Next

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, meaning users will no longer receive security updates, technical support, or bug fixes. To check if a device is compatible with Windows 11, users can navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. The minimum requirements for Windows 11 include 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and a processor speed of at least 1GHz. Users with incompatible devices may consider upgrading to new computers, as Microsoft has released affordable Surface laptops with Windows 11. An Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will be available for Windows 10 at a cost, primarily aimed at businesses but with a consumer version expected. Alternatives to upgrading include exploring other operating systems like Linux or ChromeOS Flex, using cloud solutions like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop, or opting for third-party security software such as 0patch. Users can also bypass the Windows 11 upgrade compatibility checker using tools like Rufus or Registry Editor adjustments.

Winsage

September 9, 2025

Microsoft Unveils AI Upgrades for Windows 11 on Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft is introducing enhancements for Windows 11 tailored for Copilot+ PC users, leveraging artificial intelligence to improve productivity for creative and collaborative tasks. Key features include advanced voice dictation called "Live Captions with Voice Clarity," which uses neural processing units (NPUs) for real-time transcription and noise suppression, and "Studio Effects" for webcams, offering AI-powered filters like background blur and eye contact simulation. These tools will integrate with applications like Microsoft Teams, reducing reliance on third-party software. However, the introduction of AI-suggested actions in File Explorer has drawn criticism for potentially cluttering the interface. The updates require specific hardware, creating a divide between users with NPU-enabled machines and standard Windows users, which may influence the adoption of new laptops from partners like Qualcomm and AMD.

Winsage

August 28, 2025

Your Windows 10 PC Will Lose Security Updates Soon — Here’s What to Do Before It’s Too Late

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving users of older computers without security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance. Users can enroll in the Extended Security Update (ESU) program to extend protection until October 2026 by installing the free update KB5063709. The ESU program offers two payment methods: 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for local accounts or a payment option for up to ten PCs under a single Microsoft account. This program does not include new features, bug fixes, or technical support. For alternatives, various Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Zorin OS are available for older machines, as well as ChromeOS Flex for a browser-based experience. Users can also access Windows 11 through cloud services like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop, which requires a reliable internet connection and subscription costs. Microsoft 365 applications will continue to receive security updates on Windows 10 devices for three more years. The approaching end of Windows 10 support may prompt users with aging devices to consider upgrading to new computers that come with Windows 11 pre-installed, offering better performance, security features, and longer battery life.

Winsage

August 24, 2025

With critical Windows 10 deadline weeks away, it’s the ideal time for a £250 Chromebook price crash

Microsoft will discontinue security updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving users vulnerable to security risks. The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 is available for £249 at Currys and offers a budget-friendly alternative with features such as an Intel Core 3-N355 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. Currys provides a flexible payment plan for the Chromebook, and it operates on ChromeOS, which does not require regular updates. The device supports Wi-Fi 7 and includes a 1080p Full HD webcam, a 14-inch Full HD+ IPS display, and a long battery life of 10-15 hours. Purchasing the Chromebook also includes a complimentary 12-month trial of Gemini Advanced.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ends Soon. Here Are Your Best Options if You Can’t Upgrade

Microsoft will end official support for Windows 10 on October 14, meaning users will no longer receive bug fixes, technical support, or security updates. Extended security updates (ESU) will be available for a fee, primarily aimed at businesses and educational institutions, with a consumer version available for one year. Users can also consider alternative operating systems like Linux or ChromeOS Flex. Microsoft suggests cloud solutions like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop for those unable to upgrade their devices. Some users are opting for third-party security software, such as the 0patch agent, to address security risks associated with using Windows 10 post-support. There are methods to bypass Windows 11 upgrade compatibility checks using tools like Rufus or Registry Editor modifications.