Overview
- On October 14, Windows 10 stops receiving free security, feature and technical updates, with Microsoft urging upgrades to Windows 11.
- Omdia estimates about 550 million corporate PCs still run Windows 10 and says roughly half will miss the deadline, with many devices failing Windows 11 hardware requirements like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
- Consumer Extended Security Updates cover Oct. 15, 2025 to Oct. 13, 2026 and can be enrolled via Windows Update for $30 or at no cost through OneDrive backup or Microsoft Rewards, while business ESU pricing starts at $61 and doubles each year.
- A Which? survey found 26% of UK Windows 10 users do not plan to upgrade, as the NCSC and security experts warn unsupported systems face heightened exposure to malware and exploits.
- IDC reports Q3 2025 global PC shipments rose 9.4% as refresh cycles kicked in, with the Americas up just 1% due to tariffs and macro pressures, and analysts say the Windows 11 transition—not AI features—is the primary sales driver.