Consumer Reports has urged Microsoft to extend the deadline set for October 14, which marks the end of free security updates for Windows 10 systems. They expressed concerns in a letter addressed to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, highlighting that this decision could leave millions of consumers with computers that are not compatible with Windows 11 vulnerable to cybersecurity risks.
As of August 2025, approximately 46.2 percent of global PC users still employed Windows 10. A significant number of these PCs, estimated to be between 200 and 400 million, cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 due to unfulfilled hardware requirements.
In the letter, Consumer Reports criticized Microsoft for urging customers to transition to Windows 11 for improved cybersecurity while allowing Windows 10 devices to remain exposed to potential cyber threats. They also noted a $30 fee that Microsoft imposes for a one-year extension of security updates, and contended that existing free support options essentially compel users to continue utilizing Microsoft products. This situation raises questions about Microsoft’s intentions and market strategy.
Consumer Reports has requested that Microsoft sustain free support for Windows 10 until a greater number of users are able to transition to Windows 11. Additionally, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has also advocated for an extension of the deadline, stating that up to 400 million functioning computers unable to upgrade to Windows 11 could be discarded if updates are discontinued.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/779079/consumer-reports-windows-10-extended-support-microsoft