Microsoft's End of Support for Windows 10 Could Render 240 Million PCs Obsolete

Technology research firm Canalys warns of significant e-waste problem, urges manufacturers to design products with longer life cycles and emphasize recyclability.

Microsoft's decision to end support for Windows 10 in 2025 could result in up to 240 million PCs becoming obsolete due to Windows 11's strict hardware requirements, according to technology research firm Canalys.
Obsolete PCs that cannot meet Windows 11's requirements could create a significant amount of e-waste, equivalent to about 320,000 automobiles.
Microsoft will continue to issue security updates to Windows 10 until 2028, easing the transition for many users and businesses.
Many obsolete PCs will be recycled or scrapped to reclaim valuable components, reducing the amount of e-waste that ends up in landfills.
Canalys suggests that manufacturers and software developers should design products with longer life cycles and emphasize durability, repairability, and recyclability to reduce e-waste.

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