At the beginning of this month, Neowin observed that Microsoft had subtly initiated the rollout of the KB5001716 update, a periodic release designed to implement feature updates for both Windows 11 and Windows 10 systems. This led to speculation that this might be a final effort, especially with the impending end of support for Windows 10, a situation that has prompted even governmental bodies to alert users.
In response to the growing concerns, Microsoft clarified that it has ceased the practice of stealthily installing new feature updates. This move, while appreciated, does not alter the update’s other functionalities. Despite the lingering bugs—an issue Microsoft acknowledges—the reality remains that support for Windows 10 is nearing its conclusion. However, the tech giant has introduced new options to facilitate access to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing users to extend their systems’ lifespan for an additional year without incurring the usual fee.
Criticism and Community Response
Nevertheless, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has voiced criticism, arguing that these measures may fall short of saving “as many as 400 million” systems worldwide that are unable to upgrade to Windows 11. They contend that an extra year of support, even if offered at no cost, does little to alleviate the challenges faced by users.
Adding to the discourse, Neowin reported that The Restart Project has also taken issue with Microsoft’s stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, which effectively render many relatively modern systems obsolete. The Restart Project, a “people-powered social enterprise,” champions the Right to Repair and seeks to combat e-waste as part of its commitment to addressing climate change.
In light of the impending transition, The Restart Project has unveiled an “End of Windows 10” toolkit aimed at assisting community repair groups in navigating this significant shift. This toolkit outlines various strategies and steps that these groups can adopt to support users and help them avoid potential scams. Some of the recommended actions include:
- Incorporating ‘End of 10’ support into regular community repair events
- Hosting dedicated ‘End of 10’ parties, akin to a Linux ‘Installfest’
- Collaborating with other local organizations
For those contemplating their next steps, particularly if they possess unsupported devices, LibreOffice is advocating for a transition to Linux, emphasizing the “real costs” associated with Windows 11.