Three years post-launch, Windows 11 is steadily carving out its place in the market. Recent data from StatCounter reveals that the operating system has captured a market share of 35.55% as of October 2024. However, Windows 10 remains the prevailing choice, holding a significant 60.97% of the market. With Microsoft announcing the end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, this impending deadline is poised to accelerate the transition to Windows 11. In a bid to encourage users to make the switch, Microsoft has employed various tactics, including full-screen multipage popup ads that have drawn mixed reactions from users.
While the allure of Windows 11 grows, it faces challenges, including stringent system requirements and some design flaws that have not gone unnoticed. The current landscape of the PC market also plays a role in this shift. The International Data Corporation (IDC) has reported a 3% growth in global PC shipments during the second quarter of 2024, translating to approximately 64.9 million units sold. This uptick is attributed to a combination of factors, including heightened interest in AI PCs and a refresh cycle that, while less exciting, has sparked consumer interest.
Windows 11 upgrade seems inevitable
Interestingly, the surge in AI PC shipments is not solely driven by the capabilities of these devices. Instead, it reflects a broader consumer need to upgrade to supported software, particularly Windows 11, and to invest in future-proof technology. Speculation is rife that Microsoft may soon rebrand its AI features under a new initiative dubbed Windows Intelligence, further intertwining the operating system with cutting-edge technology.
For those still clinging to Windows 10, Microsoft has introduced an Extended Security Update (ESU) program. This allows users to extend their support for an additional year at a cost of , providing a temporary reprieve from the looming end-of-support date. However, this option is limited to one year, after which users are encouraged to transition to Windows 11. While it’s possible to continue using Windows 10 post-support, users will be at risk of security vulnerabilities without critical updates.
The decision to end support for Windows 10 has sparked concern among some groups, prompting a public interest petition urging Microsoft to reconsider. Critics argue that this move could lead to a significant increase in discarded computers, highlighting the importance of the ESU program as a lifeline for those who remain loyal to Windows 10 and are hesitant to invest in new hardware.
