electronic waste Archives

Winsage

December 9, 2024

Computer owner shares frustration after seeing concerning message on Windows laptop: ‘I will not be buying a new one’

Microsoft will end free security updates for Windows 10 in October, prompting concerns among users about the need to purchase new devices, especially as the company promotes Windows 11. Users have expressed frustration over "programmed obsolescence," which forces consumers to buy new models more frequently. The financial impact of planned obsolescence can reach approximately ,000 over a consumer's lifetime, contributing to significant environmental issues, including the generation of over 68 million tons of e-waste in 2022, with only 22% recycled properly. Some users are considering alternatives like Linux to avoid the costs of new computers. Companies like Staples and Redwood Materials offer recycling programs for e-waste.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

Microsoft kills hope old PCs will run Windows 11 as death of world’s most popular OS nears

Microsoft has announced stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, mandating TPM 2.0, which has barred many older systems from upgrading. This decision creates a divide between modern and outdated hardware and raises concerns for Windows 10 users, as support for that operating system will end in October 2025. Windows 11 has a slower adoption rate, with Windows 10 holding a 61.8% market share compared to Windows 11's 34.9%. The transition may result in approximately 240 million PCs being discarded, raising sustainability concerns. Microsoft is expected to increase promotions for Windows 11 within the Windows 10 interface to encourage upgrades.

Winsage

October 30, 2024

Microsoft Update Warning—400 Million Windows PCs Now At Risk

Approximately 400 million users are at risk as vulnerabilities in Windows resurface, prompting warnings for immediate action to protect PCs and personal data. The public interest advocacy group PIRG is urging Microsoft to extend Windows 10 support to all users, as the current support for educational institutions will end in one year, potentially rendering many computers obsolete. Microsoft has provided extended support options for educational institutions, allowing them to maintain security for an additional three years at a nominal fee, but details for consumer options remain undisclosed. A significant vulnerability, referred to as a "downdate" threat, remains unpatched, and a new Windows Theme vulnerability has been classified as a zero-day threat. PIRG is advocating for automatic extensions of essential security updates for Windows 10 to prevent a surge of electronic waste and enhance security for users.

Winsage

October 15, 2024

Microsoft asking us to buy new Windows 11 PCs is wasteful

Microsoft's push for users to upgrade to Windows 11 has faced resistance due to stringent hardware requirements, particularly the need for TPM 2.0, which many older PCs lack. Despite initial concerns, recent updates have shown that older hardware can run Windows 11 effectively, challenging the notion that only new machines are suitable. The TPM 2.0 requirement has led to older CPUs being deemed obsolete, even though they can perform adequately. This situation raises concerns about electronic waste, as users may discard functional machines that do not meet the criteria. Additionally, Microsoft's hardware push may be aimed at boosting sales of its new Copilot+ devices, which rely on AI for enhanced productivity. As Windows 10 nears its end-of-life, users must consider alternatives, including non-Windows operating systems.