Microsoft has recently made a noteworthy shift in its approach to advertising within Windows 10, opting to scale back its previously aggressive strategy aimed at encouraging users to transition to Windows 11. This decision appears to be a response to user feedback regarding the intrusive nature of full-screen popups and multipage advertisements that have characterized the upgrade campaign.
While the company has not confirmed whether this change is permanent, it has indicated that a new timeline will be shared in the coming months. This pause comes at a time when Windows 10’s market share reached an impressive 30%, a record high attributed to a combination of factors including the impending end-of-support date, the introduction of Copilot+ PCs, and the very ads that prompted user frustration.
As the end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches—set for October 14, 2025—Microsoft’s aggressive advertising tactics have drawn considerable backlash from users. The company’s campaign has been designed to push users towards Windows 11, but it seems that the strategy may need to be recalibrated in light of the recent market dynamics.
Windows 11’s Market Share is Gaining Some Traction
In parallel, Windows 11 has been experiencing a surge in market share, recently hitting 30%. This growth can be largely credited to the same aggressive advertising strategy that has frustrated Windows 10 users, alongside the looming obsolescence of Windows 10 and the excitement surrounding Copilot+ PCs. However, Windows 11 has faced its own challenges, particularly due to its stringent system requirements and some design flaws, notably with the Start menu.
To enhance its appeal, Microsoft has rolled out new AI features as part of the 24H2 release, including Live Captions and Windows Studio Effects. However, these enhancements are limited to users with Copilot+ PCs, which require a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU) to function effectively.
The impending end of Windows 10 could potentially lead to a significant increase in discarded computers, raising concerns about Microsoft’s sustainability and environmental objectives. For those wishing to extend their use of Windows 10 beyond the official support end date, Microsoft plans to offer an extended security update (ESU) program, albeit at a premium price. This program will ensure that users continue to receive essential security updates while using their existing devices.
In anticipation of this transition, Microsoft has established a dedicated webpage that serves as a gentle reminder of Windows 10’s eventual phase-out. This resource not only highlights the advantages of Windows 11 but also provides a comprehensive guide for users looking to identify and purchase new laptops that meet the updated requirements.
