In the dynamic landscape of operating systems, Windows 10 appears to be holding its ground, maintaining its popularity with nearly 70% presence on desktops worldwide, according to recent figures from Statcounter. Surprisingly, this statistic remained consistent from the end of 2022 to the close of 2023, indicating sustained user loyalty.
Despite Microsoft’s concerted efforts to encourage users to migrate from Windows 10 to the newer Windows 11, introduced in October 2021, the transition hasn’t unfolded as swiftly as anticipated. While Windows 11 has experienced a 10% growth in market share over the last twelve months, reaching just over a quarter of desktop PCs globally by December 2023, it hasn’t matched the pace Microsoft might have hoped for.
Windows 10 is slated to reach its end-of-life in October 2025, signaling the conclusion of official support. However, Microsoft recently introduced an option for users and businesses to receive an additional three years of critical security updates, albeit at an undisclosed cost. This move raises questions about the potential pricing and accessibility of these extended support subscriptions.
The rumored arrival of Windows 12, speculated to debut as early as June 2024 alongside a new generation of “AI PCs,” adds an intriguing layer of uncertainty to the future of Microsoft’s operating systems. Whether Microsoft will officially adopt the Windows 12 name remains uncertain, particularly as Windows 11’s market share continues to lag behind its predecessor, Windows 10.
It’s worth noting that research from Canalys suggests that following Windows 10’s end-of-life in 2025, up to 240 million PCs could face disposal due to Windows 11’s controversial hardware restrictions. This raises environmental concerns and underscores the potential impact of evolving OS requirements on electronic waste.
