Recent developments suggest that the decision to maintain Windows 10 may soon become untenable, with eligible PC owners facing an impending upgrade mandate. This scenario could impose a deadline on the current free upgrade offer, effectively removing the choice from users. Microsoft’s recent updates to Windows 10 contain caveats that heighten this concern.
Earlier this year, Microsoft took a decisive step by forcibly installing its new Outlook client on Windows 10 devices, a move that was subsequently mirrored with Windows 11 24H2 for PCs running Home and Pro editions that are not managed by IT departments.
Implications of Automatic Updates
A more significant confirmation emerged last year when the company auto-installed the KB5001716 patch on Windows 10 PCs. This update included a warning that Microsoft may begin to “attempt to download and install feature updates to your device if it is approaching or has reached the end of support for your currently installed Windows version.” This change impacts approximately 400 million Windows 10 users.
As discussions about Windows 10 upgrades proliferate on social media, Windows Latest highlights the critical deadline: support for Windows 10 will conclude on October 14. Users can extend this support for an additional year for a fee of ; otherwise, Microsoft will automatically upgrade supported PCs to Windows 11.
Key Questions Ahead
Two pivotal questions will influence the landscape over the next 100 days. The first centers on how many eligible Windows 10 PCs will undergo the upgrade. Notably, this month has brought encouraging news for Microsoft, as millions of users have finally made the transition after a prolonged period of inactivity. Windows 11 is on track to surpass Windows 10’s market share for the first time, although it is important to note that over half of all users still remain on Windows 10.
The second question pertains to the number of PCs that are not eligible for the free upgrade. Analysts estimate that at least 240 million PCs fall into this category, with the potential for that number to be even higher. These devices cannot be forcibly upgraded and do not qualify for any free upgrade options. Users of these PCs will face the choice of paying Microsoft for a 12-month security update extension or risking exposure to security vulnerabilities.
With the October 14 deadline approaching, both Microsoft and PC OEMs are intensifying efforts to encourage the 240 million users—and those with eligible devices—to invest in new Copilot PCs. The message is clear: “securing your future” is paramount, and PC owners are urged to take action.