Windows 10 End-of-Life Deadline Approaches
As the clock ticks down to Microsoft’s self-imposed deadline for Windows 10, which looms less than two months away, the atmosphere is thick with uncertainty. While users are grappling with the impending transition, major players in the PC market are sharing their own concerns. Recent earnings calls from HP and Dell reveal a sobering statistic: only half of Windows PCs have made the leap to Windows 11, and the other half appear hesitant to follow suit.
According to insights from our sister site, ComputerWorld, this sentiment is echoed by broader market trends. Current data indicates that Windows 11 accounts for just about half of global installations. Interestingly, Statcounter’s findings suggest that Windows 10 even gained market share in August, while Windows 11 saw a slight decline, despite being a decade old and facing an imminent deadline.
A Gartner researcher sheds light on the demographics likely to embrace the new operating system versus those who may hold back. Large enterprises, motivated by a desire to mitigate future complications, are expected to prioritize infrastructure investments and expedite the rollout of Windows 11. In contrast, small businesses, often characterized by their frugality, are likely to postpone any hardware or software upgrades until absolutely necessary.
While Dell and HP focus primarily on corporate clients in their assessments, the economic climate is influencing consumer behavior as well. With rising prices for PCs—particularly evident in the US market—regular consumers are becoming increasingly cautious about new purchases. The lingering effects of President Trump’s import tariffs, which have been deemed illegal by US courts but remain in effect pending appeal, are contributing to significant price hikes across the board.
These various factors collectively cast a shadow over Microsoft’s aspirations for widespread Windows 11 adoption. In response to the challenges, the tech giant is extending security updates for Windows 10, albeit with some additional requirements for users. This move underscores the complexities surrounding the transition and the varied motivations driving both corporate and consumer decisions in this pivotal moment.
