Overview

• Microsoft issued a new reminder that October’s release will be the final monthly security update for the OS, with no further patches unless users enroll in Extended Security Updates.
• Consumers can extend critical updates until October 13, 2026 by activating Windows Backup to OneDrive for a no‑cost year, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or paying $30 for coverage on up to 10 devices.
• Consumer Reports counted roughly 650 million people still using the OS, and PIRG estimates up to 400 million machines cannot move to Windows 11, a gap security experts say increases cyber risk and may erode app compatibility over time.
• Windows Update is surfacing trade‑in and recycling links that redirect to the Microsoft Store’s program, and Microsoft’s latest messaging steers holdouts toward new Copilot+ ARM PCs as part of a broader refresh push.
• Consumer groups including Consumer Reports and PIRG are pressing for free security updates and warning of e‑waste, while some users explore Linux or ChromeOS Flex or rely on unsupported workarounds to install Windows 11 on older hardware.