In less than a month, Microsoft is poised to officially end support for Windows 10, a move that has sparked considerable backlash from users and advocacy groups alike. The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has raised alarms, suggesting that this decision could trigger an unprecedented wave of discarded computers. While Microsoft has attempted to soften the blow by offering Extended Support Updates (ESU) through various means—such as syncing PC settings to the cloud or redeeming Microsoft Reward points—the PIRG argues that these measures are insufficient for the estimated 400 million PCs unable to upgrade to Windows 11. Critics liken the ESU program to a temporary fix, merely delaying the inevitable for another year.
Recent statements from HP and Dell reveal that approximately half of the global PC market still relies on Windows 10, positioning Microsoft to potentially reap over .3 billion from enterprise clients alone. This has led to accusations that Microsoft is leveraging programmed obsolescence to nudge users toward Windows 11, and perhaps even entice them to purchase new Copilot+ PCs.
Back Market aims to counter Microsoft’s planned obsolescence as Windows 10 support ends
Yet, amidst this impending transition, a glimmer of hope emerges for Windows 10 users. Back Market, a Paris-based refurbished tech vendor, is stepping in to address the needs of those affected by the end of support. The company has launched a limited offering of refurbished HP and Lenovo laptops, intriguingly pre-installed with Google’s Chrome OS Flex. However, with only 50 units available, this initiative is but a small drop in the ocean of 400 million PCs facing obsolescence come October 14, 2025.
Amandine Durr, Back Market’s chief product officer, emphasizes the company’s commitment to transforming old and unsupported PCs into a viable product category. The company has even dedicated a section on its website to what it calls “Obsolete Computers.” In a bold statement, Back Market highlights the environmental implications of planned obsolescence, calling it a tactic employed by major tech companies to compel consumers to purchase new devices, thereby contributing to the growing e-waste crisis.
“On October 14th, nearly 400 million working laptops will become obsolete, because Microsoft will not provide them with Windows 11 updates. It’s called planned obsolescence, a trick Big Tech uses to make you buy new stuff. Enough already. We refuse to watch hundreds of millions of perfectly good computers end up in the trash as e-waste, the fastest growing stream of waste in the world.”
Back Market
To navigate this challenging landscape, Back Market suggests three actionable steps for users: installing alternative operating systems like ChromeOS or Linux Ubuntu on older Windows 10 PCs, extending the lifespan of devices with practical maintenance tips, and actively participating in repair communities. As Microsoft continues to advocate for upgrades to Windows 11, boasting performance improvements, the future remains uncertain for its dominance in the desktop operating system market. Meanwhile, rival platforms such as Linux are gaining traction, appealing to users with promises of ad-free experiences and enhanced privacy.
