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Steve Ballmer once trashed Linux as "a cancer" — now it’s saving Windows 10 holdouts
Winsage
July 1, 2026

Steve Ballmer once trashed Linux as “a cancer” — now it’s saving Windows 10 holdouts

In 2001, Steve Ballmer, then CEO of Microsoft, referred to Linux as a "cancer" threatening Microsoft's intellectual property and likened its users to "communist thieves." By 2016, after Microsoft ported SQL Server to Linux, Ballmer expressed enthusiasm for the change and acknowledged that the conflict with open-source had benefited Microsoft's financial success. In 2020, Microsoft President Brad Smith admitted the company had been on the wrong side of history regarding open source and noted the need for change. Microsoft has since embraced open-source technologies, introducing products like Azure Linux 4.0, built on Fedora. As Windows 11's transition becomes difficult for users, advocacy groups have criticized Microsoft for ending support for Windows 10, which could lead to millions of discarded computers. Microsoft extended Windows 10's life through an Extended Security Updates program until October 14, 2026, with a recent announcement pushing it to 2027. Rising hardware costs and design flaws in Windows 11 have led some users to consider alternatives like Linux. A survey revealed that 30% of PCs are still running Windows 10, and a poll showed that 68% of respondents plan to stick with Windows 10 through 2027.
Steve Ballmer once called Linux a “cancer” — it's funny Windows 10 holdouts may now see it as the cure for Windows 11’s hardware rules and the RAM crisis
Winsage
June 30, 2026

Steve Ballmer once called Linux a “cancer” — it’s funny Windows 10 holdouts may now see it as the cure for Windows 11’s hardware rules and the RAM crisis

Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer initially described Linux as a "cancer" in 2001 but changed his perspective by 2016, supporting Microsoft's decision to port SQL Server to Linux. Microsoft President Brad Smith acknowledged the company's past underestimation of the open-source movement in 2020. Microsoft has integrated open-source solutions into its products, including PowerShell and Visual Studio Code, and launched Azure Linux 4.0. As Microsoft phases out support for Windows 10, critics argue this leads to programmed obsolescence, affecting up to 400 million PCs. Microsoft extended support for Windows 10 through its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program until October 14, 2026, with an additional extension through 2027. Rising hardware costs and stringent requirements for Windows 11 hinder many users' transitions. Advocacy groups are encouraging users to consider Linux, highlighting its advantages. Recent surveys show that 30% of HP PCs still run Windows 10, and a poll indicated that 68% of participants plan to stay with Windows 10 through 2027. There is a growing awareness among consumers regarding the potential shift to open-source alternatives like Linux.
Microsoft gives Windows 10 users a reprieve by extending security updates another year
Winsage
June 26, 2026

Microsoft gives Windows 10 users a reprieve by extending security updates another year

Microsoft has extended the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 personal computers until October 12, 2027. This extension was noted in a revised support document and aims to give users more time to transition to Windows 11 while still receiving security updates. The ESU program, launched in June 2025, was initially set to conclude in October 2026. Currently, Windows 10 powers approximately 26% of desktop Windows PCs globally, with around 1 billion PCs still running it, according to Dell COO Jeffrey Clarke.
Don't Tell Anyone But Windows 10 Will Get Another Year Of Updates
Winsage
June 26, 2026

Don’t Tell Anyone But Windows 10 Will Get Another Year Of Updates

Microsoft has extended its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 by an additional year, allowing users to continue receiving critical updates without the immediate need to transition to Windows 11. Users already enrolled in the ESU program can maintain their current operating system without additional steps, while those not yet signed up can access the updates by purchasing an ESU license through a Microsoft partner, enrolling in a volume licensing agreement that includes ESU, or utilizing a Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) for subscription-based access.
Steam Machine pricing starts at $1,049 for 512GB model
AppWizard
June 22, 2026

Steam Machine pricing starts at $1,049 for 512GB model

Valve's Steam Machine is now available for pre-order, with two versions priced at ,049 for the 512GB model and ,349 for the 2TB model, which includes a Steam Controller. The device runs on SteamOS and can play PC games, functioning as both a console and a desktop computer. Its compact design allows for easy integration into home environments. The pricing has been influenced by component shortages due to demand from AI sectors. Valve has stated that it does not follow the traditional console model of selling hardware at a loss, aiming instead for an open ecosystem. Insights suggest that the target price for the Steam Machine may have shifted significantly due to rising costs.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 22, 2026

“Nintendo will not be challenged at all” — Surging prices have damaged the PC gaming handheld market, and our readers did not hold back

The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is priced at ,799, reflecting increased component costs due to the AI boom and its premium build quality. In comparison, the Steam Deck started at 9, allowing consumers to buy multiple gaming consoles. Nintendo has shipped nearly 156 million Switch units and 19.86 million Switch 2 units, while the Steam Deck has sold an estimated 4 million units. The Nintendo Switch's sales surged after a price hike in Japan but later declined, with a similar price adjustment expected in the US, Canada, and Europe. Users distinguish the Steam Deck as an "enthusiast device" for PC gamers, while the Switch is the exclusive platform for Nintendo titles. The PC gaming handheld market is viewed as hibernating rather than over, with optimism for future developments despite current challenges. The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ features Intel's Arc G3 chips, which have generated excitement about its performance. There is a significant audience interested in the right combination of price and specifications for handheld PC gaming.
PlayStation’s PC port era appears over as Sony scrubs key policy language
AppWizard
June 21, 2026

PlayStation’s PC port era appears over as Sony scrubs key policy language

Sony's recent annual business report indicates a shift in its strategy for first-party titles, removing the previous commitment to release PlayStation games on PC after console launches. Analysts suggest this change signals a focus on PS5 exclusivity for upcoming single-player titles. Reports have indicated that future games like Ghost of Yotei, Saros, and Marvel’s Wolverine may remain exclusive to the PS5. Additionally, the report highlights Sony's commitment to integrating artificial intelligence in game development to enhance creativity. The company has also revised its business outlook, removing the term "profitable" due to ongoing supply chain challenges and rising hardware costs, which have affected its ability to expand the PS5 installed base.
'It feels to many like a tidal wave is sweeping over the AAA game business,' says Epic CEO Tim Sweeney in his diagnosis of the industry's woes
AppWizard
June 18, 2026

‘It feels to many like a tidal wave is sweeping over the AAA game business,’ says Epic CEO Tim Sweeney in his diagnosis of the industry’s woes

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, highlighted the need for improved game development efficiency and connectivity during his remarks at Unreal Fest. He noted that many major game releases are failing to meet expectations despite increased engagement among younger audiences and Fortnite's resurgence. Epic is developing Unreal Engine 6 to enhance efficiency and interoperability, incorporating generative AI for game creation that can integrate with Fortnite and other Unreal products. The Unreal Engine is free for developers, with a 5% royalty after the first million in revenue, and the Epic Games Store waives fees for the first million earned, contrasting with higher fees on platforms like Steam. Epic and Disney released a Star Wars toolkit for Unreal Editor for Fortnite, and there are concerns about how traditional gaming experiences will adapt to a more interconnected ecosystem. Despite rising development costs, Epic is committed to supporting diverse projects while shifting towards a model emphasizing social connectivity and brand partnerships.
Microsoft CEO says Xbox needs to be more sustainable: "We've not been monetizing that entertainment"
AppWizard
June 14, 2026

Microsoft CEO says Xbox needs to be more sustainable: “We’ve not been monetizing that entertainment”

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella discussed the evolving landscape of Xbox under new CEO Asha Sharma, who is initiating a 100-day "reset" to enhance economic sustainability amidst rising costs. Sharma's letter to employees emphasized the need for adaptation in a competitive entertainment industry and acknowledged challenges from the hardware crisis and declining revenue. Nadella highlighted the importance of innovating in both hardware and gaming content while ensuring economic viability. Xbox Chief Creative Officer Matt Booty reassured the PC gaming community that exclusivity will mainly affect Xbox consoles, with titles remaining available on multiple platforms. Nadella noted the need for a sustainable business model, pointing out that current monetization strategies have not fully leveraged Xbox's entertainment value. He acknowledged the broader trend of rising prices in tech sectors and expressed confidence in Sharma's vision for Xbox's future. Matthew Ball, the new Chief Strategy Officer, suggested ad-supported tiers for more affordable consumer access, aligning with Nadella's vision for economically relevant offerings.
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