Despite the impending end-of-life for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, a notable segment of users remains hesitant to transition to Windows 11. This reluctance can be attributed to several factors, including perceived design flaws in Windows 11 and its demanding minimum system requirements. However, recent months have seen a surge in alternative solutions that aim to alleviate these concerns for users.
One such alternative is Tiny11, a tool designed to create a lightweight version of Windows 11 tailored for older and unsupported PCs. This tool recently received a significant update, now supporting Windows 11 version 25H2 while removing Microsoft applications like the new Outlook and Copilot. Meanwhile, Microsoft is preparing to roll out Windows 11 version 25H2 in waves from September through October, although this update is not expected to introduce any new features.
While Microsoft has remained tight-lipped about the potential development of a successor to Windows 11, whispers of Windows 12 have begun to circulate. This has not deterred dedicated Windows enthusiasts, such as concept designer Abdi (known as AR 4789 on YouTube), from envisioning what the future could hold. Abdi previously captured attention with his Windows 12.2 “next evolution” concept, which elegantly overshadowed Windows 11 by incorporating nostalgic themes reminiscent of Windows 7 while placing Microsoft’s aggressive Copilot AI campaign on the back burner.
In his latest endeavor, Abdi has unveiled a concept video titled “Brilliant Windows 12.” This design goes beyond merely enhancing Windows 11’s aesthetics; it introduces innovative features such as “Collectzone,” a tool that enables users to compile multiple wallpapers into easily accessible collections. Additionally, the concept merges the Control Panel with the operating system’s settings, streamlining the user experience and allowing for greater personalization.
The Brilliant Windows 12 concept also showcases Quick Interactive Settings, which allow users to swiftly toggle dark mode and access a screenshot button for quick snapshots. Notably, Copilot AI makes a prominent appearance in this concept, demonstrating its advanced search capabilities. Furthermore, users are granted enhanced control over customization options, enabling them to position widgets freely within the operating system.
What’s next for Microsoft’s ecosystem after Windows 10 reaches end-of-life?
As the deadline for Windows 10’s end-of-life approaches, the landscape of Microsoft’s Windows ecosystem is becoming increasingly dynamic. Despite the company’s efforts to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11, including the introduction of the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued security support, backlash from users has been palpable. Many view the push towards Windows 11 as a strategy to drive sales of new PCs equipped with Copilot+ technology.
Microsoft has made bold claims, stating that “Windows 11 PCs are up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs,” a statement that has led some users to feel that the end of support for Windows 10 is a form of “programmed obsolescence.” A public interest research group (PIRG) has even petitioned against Microsoft’s decision to discontinue support for Windows 10, arguing that it could lead to “the single biggest jump in dumped computers ever.” While Microsoft has introduced the ESU program to address some of these concerns, critics assert that it does not provide a viable solution for the estimated 400 million PCs unable to upgrade to Windows 11.
Amid these challenges, HP and Dell have reported that half of today’s PCs still operate on Windows 10, raising concerns about potential vulnerabilities and exposure to malicious attacks. Nevertheless, Microsoft stands to gain significantly from its ESU program, projecting revenues exceeding billion from enterprise clients in the first year following Windows 10’s end-of-life.