Introduction

As dawn breaks on technology’s ever-evolving landscape, Microsoft’s Chief Marketing Officer, Yusuf Mehdi, is eagerly promoting 2025 as the 'year of the Windows 11 PC refresh.' This comes amid a determined phase-out of support for Windows 10, with October 2025 marking the end of security updates for the legacy operating system.

The Call for Upgrade

During the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) earlier this year, Mehdi heralded 2024 as the 'year of the AI PC,' a bold proclamation in which many new PCs are equipped with advanced AI-accelerating neural processing units (NPUs). But now, as we transition into the latter half of 2023, the conversation is shifting significantly towards the necessity of upgrading to Windows 11-compatible devices.

The Allure of Windows 11

With the sunsetting of Windows 10 fast approaching, Microsoft does not just stop at predictions; it’s implementing strategies that straddle encouragement and obligation. The allure of Windows 11 includes enhanced features—utilizing AI capabilities that promise improved performance, security, and battery life on cutting-edge hardware. However, there's a clear warning: those still clinging to outdated systems will find themselves without vital security updates starting in late 2025.

User Messaging

In a clear message to users, Mehdi states, 'Whether the current PC needs a refresh or it has security vulnerabilities that require the latest hardware-backed protection, now is the time to move forward with a new Windows 11 PC.' This approach undoubtedly benefits Microsoft and its hardware partners more than it does Windows 10 users, who might seek free OS updates for their existing machines.

Compatibility Challenges

Attention must also be drawn to the many users of older systems that are now facing severe compatibility and performance hurdles. With Windows 11 initially rolling out in 2021, the supported hardware was designed to be relatively new—just three to four years old. Fast-forward to the present, and many users are left with devices that are nearing a decade in age, significantly impacting performance due to aging components.

Extended Security Updates

Interestingly, Mehdi did not spotlight an alternative pathway for Windows 10 users wishing to hold onto their systems longer. Microsoft does offer an Extended Security Update (ESU) program that allows users and organizations to maintain security updates for an additional year beyond October 2025, albeit for a fee. Individuals can expect to pay around $30, while organizations might pay between $1 and $61 per user, depending on their size and service duration.

Market Presence of Windows 10

Despite the allure of upgrading, it’s worth noting that Windows 10 continues to dominate the market. Current estimates suggest that it accounts for between 50 to 66% of all Windows usage globally, creating a pressing security challenge as countless machines remain vulnerable without active support.

Conclusion

As the clock ticks down to the end of Windows 10, the question looms: will 2025 indeed become the landmark year of Windows 11 refreshes, and will it be swift enough to usher outdated PCs out of circulation? Only time will tell, but for users contemplating their next move, the invitation to embrace change has never been more urgent.

Closing Note

Stay tuned, as Microsoft’s journey into an AI-empowered future unfolds! Will you be part of the transformation?