Windows 11 has claimed the title of the leading operating system, boasting a market share of 53.7%, while its predecessor, Windows 10, remains a strong contender at 42.7%. These figures, drawn from the latest StatCounter data, reveal a significant gap, yet the term “dominant” feels somewhat misplaced when we consider the broader context. With approximately 700 million devices currently running Windows 11, it’s clear that a substantial number of users are still opting to stick with the familiar environment of Windows 10.
Microsoft’s Push for Users to Upgrade From Windows 10
As 2025 approached, Microsoft transitioned from gentle nudges to firm directives, urging users to upgrade. What began as subtle update suggestions evolved into full-screen prompts, comprehensive compatibility checks, and persistent reminders that Windows 10 is no longer equipped to handle the current security landscape.
For Microsoft, this shift was not merely a suggestion but a necessity. The future of updates, AI integration, and security support lies firmly within Windows 11. However, many users remain comfortable with their existing operating system. Windows 10 has proven reliable, largely free from glitches, and familiar enough that a transition feels daunting. It wasn’t until this year that Windows 11 began to feel like a truly viable upgrade rather than a hastily released product.
Windows 10 Support Has Ended
October 2025 marked the official end of support for Windows 10. With this milestone, users are left without updates, patches, or bug fixes. While the operating system continues to function, the absence of security updates leaves users exposed. Those who choose to remain on Windows 10 are effectively navigating a minefield unless they opt for Microsoft’s extended security package, which extends protection until October 2026 for a fee.
However, hardware compatibility poses another challenge. Devices older than approximately four years may struggle with the new Trusted Platform Module 2.0 requirement, effectively locking some users out of the upgrade path. For these individuals, the decision to upgrade is not merely a software choice but may necessitate a complete hardware overhaul.
The 2025 Windows 11 Updates and The Upcoming Windows 12 Release
The 25H2 update aimed to encapsulate the essence of Windows 11, introducing enhancements such as Copilot improvements, refined update scheduling, stability fixes, and a more polished interface. Yet, the narrative of 2025 has been one of resolving issues only to create new ones. Each fix has often been accompanied by unforeseen complications.
Even the December servicing patch, intended to enhance reliability, inadvertently introduced a minor yet frustrating bug related to the missing password icon. Such annoyances highlight why some users remain hesitant to transition to Windows 11.
Windows 12
Originally anticipated to launch by the end of the year, Windows 12’s arrival now seems uncertain, likely falling between the next update cycle and the resolution of ongoing Windows 11 patching challenges. Windows 11 was intended to serve as a bridge, and while it continues to do so, expectations for Windows 12 are building.
This upcoming operating system is expected to emphasize AI advancements, particularly the development of Copilot and Copilot+ PC. However, details remain largely speculative. While Windows 12 is rumored to offer significant improvements over its predecessor, the question remains: has 2025 successfully revitalized Windows 11? The answer appears to be nuanced; it has solidified, patched, and corrected the system, yet it has also introduced new challenges, compelling a user base that was reluctant to adapt to eventually embrace change.
