Winsage
July 30, 2025
Microsoft unveiled Windows 10 ten years ago, marking a significant milestone in its desktop computing platform. The operating system has been both celebrated and scrutinized for its contributions and shortcomings, with some critics noting a decline in user experience termed "enshittification." Issues with Windows 10 can be traced back to its predecessor, Windows 8, which faced criticism for its "touch-first" design and the introduction of advertising in universal in-box applications. Concerns were raised about the implications of monetizing the platform, particularly with the low upgrade price leading to ads. Under CEO Satya Nadella, who took over in early 2014, Microsoft adopted a more aggressive monetization strategy, which became evident in Windows 10 and its successor, Windows 11. By 2017, the use of advertising and related tactics had escalated, raising questions about user trust and satisfaction.
