Microsoft is embarking on a significant journey of “behind-the-scenes platform changes” with Windows 11, a move that stirs both optimism and apprehension among users. This initiative, highlighted in the latest preview build, marks the introduction of the 26300 series in the Dev channel, signaling a commitment to refining the operating system’s core functionalities.
However, this development comes at a time when recent statistics reveal a concerning trend: the market share of Windows 11 has seen a notable decline. According to Statcounter, the operating system’s share dropped from 55.18% in October 2025 to 50.73% by December, a decrease of approximately 4.5%. In contrast, Windows 10 has gained traction, increasing its user base by 3%, while even Windows 7 has experienced a surprising resurgence with a 1.3% uptick.
Analysis: hope springs eternal (but confidence is barely a trickle, sadly)
The implications of these figures warrant careful consideration. While Statcounter’s data provides a snapshot of the operating system landscape, it is essential to recognize that it may not fully encapsulate the complexities of user behavior across different regions. The unexpected gains for Windows 7 suggest potential shifts in survey methodologies, complicating the interpretation of these trends.
Nonetheless, the decline in Windows 11’s market share is troubling for Microsoft, especially given that Windows 10 has recently exited official support. The expectation was for users to migrate to Windows 11, yet the availability of extended support for Windows 10 until October 2026 has created a viable alternative for many. This situation, coupled with ongoing reports of bugs and the controversial push for AI integration within the operating system, may be contributing to users opting to remain with or revert to Windows 10.
In light of these challenges, Microsoft is introducing the Bromine platform, a new foundation designed to support the next generation of Arm-based laptops. This strategic shift aims to separate the development of Arm PCs from the existing Windows 11 systems, with the Bromine platform currently in the earliest Canary channel. The upcoming release, Windows 11 26H1, will cater specifically to Arm devices, while non-Arm PCs will continue to receive updates based on the current Germanium platform.
By maintaining this separation, Microsoft hopes to avoid the pitfalls experienced during the rollout of the 24H2 update, which was marred by numerous bugs. If executed successfully, these adjustments could enhance the overall stability of Windows 11 throughout the year. However, the lingering skepticism surrounding Windows 11’s reliability poses a significant hurdle for Microsoft. The company must prioritize rebuilding consumer trust by focusing on solidifying the foundations of the operating system and tempering its aggressive AI promotion.
Ultimately, the path forward for Windows 11 hinges on addressing these fundamental issues, as the success of the platform may depend more on its stability than on the allure of AI advancements.
