Microsoft has expanded its free update offer to millions more users of Windows 10, following the mandatory update to KB5063709. This update introduces the option to “Enroll in Extended Support Updates” (ESU), which will be available until October 2026.
New Enrollment Options
According to Windows Latest, a new “Enroll Now” link has been added to the Windows Update page, making it easier for users to take advantage of this offer. While there are various ways to extend security support, including a option that can cover up to 10 PCs under a single account, the majority of users are likely to opt for the free update. This option allows them to link the ESU to their Microsoft account and OneDrive.
Microsoft had previously announced this initiative in July, stating that “individuals will begin to see an enrollment wizard through notifications and in Settings.” This development aims to simplify the process of selecting the best option for users and enrolling in ESU directly from their Windows 10 PCs. As noted by Windows Latest, “more users should see the toggle” following this update.
However, the rollout has not been entirely seamless. Some users experienced “immediately crashes” when attempting to access the enrollment wizard, but Microsoft has since addressed this issue.
Windows 10 Vs Windows 11.
Statcounter
Despite the positive reception of the free ESU offer, the implications for Microsoft are mixed. With “all activated licenses of Windows 10 eligible for ESU,” the momentum that had been building to transition Windows 10 users to Windows 11 has now reversed course. Just a month ago, Windows 11 had finally surpassed Windows 10 in market share after a prolonged struggle. It appeared that this trend would continue, especially with around 250 million PCs still ineligible for the upgrade. However, the introduction of the free ESU has complicated this narrative.
As I had previously cautioned, this shift has resulted in a downturn for Windows 11’s recent gains, at least according to data from Statcounter. While Windows 11 remains slightly ahead of its predecessor, it is now trending downward. Although the free ESU initiative is commendable, it arguably should have been restricted to PCs unable to upgrade.
At this juncture, it appears that the impending cliff edge has merely been postponed, leading to another round of upgrade prompts and cybersecurity alerts next summer. In the coming weeks, we will gain further insight into this evolving situation, as Windows 10 may be poised to reclaim its former dominance.
