Windows 10 will end its support on October 14. However, 23 organizations are launching an offensive against Microsoft. Their request is straightforward: they want updates to be maintained until 2030. The petition is called “No to the Windows Tax”.
Although Microsoft has been enhancing Windows 11, particularly by refining its controversial interface, it seems that Windows 10 remains more popular among users for various reasons, mainly due to the lack of forced AI integration. The support for this operating system will officially end on October 14, although a one-year extension is available under certain conditions.
A petition demands free support for Windows 10 until 2030
Despite these developments, the Redmond company faces strong opposition, with voices already rising against the discontinuation of Windows 10. While Windows 11 has recently gained more popularity, this shift is largely attributed to the impending end of support for the previous operating system.
The coalition of 23 organizations condemns the end of support as a “forced and unjust decision”, labeling it a “social, ecological, and economic disaster”. This is primarily because the technical requirements demanded by Windows 11 prevent many PCs from utilizing the new operating system. We must remember that some individuals cannot afford to buy more powerful machines for the latest Microsoft OS.
Others will be compelled to purchase new hardware, leading to the ecological disaster highlighted by the 23 organizations. This scenario reflects a form of planned obsolescence and an “unjust tax” according to the coalition, affecting individuals, administrations, and businesses, ultimately resulting in potential digital exclusion for low-income populations.
The end of Windows 10 is catastrophic for millions of users
Of course, the coalition also discusses security implications, as without updates, Windows 10 will be vulnerable to hackers, exposing millions of users. While there are alternatives like switching to Linux, many users appreciate the Microsoft ecosystem, which is known for its user-friendliness.
As mentioned earlier, the coalition emphasizes the environmental disaster as individuals will purchase new PCs while their existing Windows 10 machines are still functioning well. This overconsumption is troubling in the context of climate change.
Therefore, the petition demands that security updates for Windows 10 be maintained until at least 2030, free of charge. A five-year extension would allow users to better plan their transition. But will Microsoft heed this outcry? That’s uncertain.
Source: UFC-Que Choisir
