In a significant move, Microsoft has announced that a free Windows update is available starting today, marking a notable shift in the company's approach to the end of life for Windows 10. This update is aimed at the estimated 700 million users who are still holding out on Windows 10, with Microsoft encouraging them to transition to Windows 11, which is touted as the faster, better, and safer option. The company acknowledges that upgrading to a new PC can take time and has committed to supporting users throughout the process. This development is the latest in a series of updates, including a recent republished announcement on July 24 that introduced another twist that could impact millions of users.
The free update offer comes with a condition, albeit a relatively minor one. Users will need to enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program directly from their Windows 10 PC, which can be done through a simple enrollment wizard accessible via notifications and in Settings. This enrollment allows users to select the best option for their needs and extends the life of their current system. Microsoft frames this as a supportive measure, recognizing that not all users are ready or able to move to a new PC immediately. By providing this extension, Microsoft is essentially giving users more time to make the transition to Windows 11, which is positioned as the superior choice for both performance and security.
For those who are already on Windows 11, Microsoft is highlighting the latest update as "the most reliable Windows yet." Compared to Windows 10 22H2, the company reports that Windows 11 24H2 has seen a 24% drop in failure rates for unexpected restarts. This improvement is attributed to deep collaboration across engineering, design, and user research teams, reflecting a commitment to making Windows more resilient for all users. Additionally, Microsoft is pushing the benefits of its new Copilot PCs, emphasizing the integration of AI-powered tools, productivity features, and built-in performance and security enhancements. The company is also making a strong case for users to switch from Chrome to Edge, promoting Edge as the browser built for Windows that offers the most seamless PC browsing experience.
The introduction of a new PC-to-PC migration tool is another significant development, designed to simplify the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This tool allows users to migrate their folders and personal settings over a home network, although it does not copy apps and passwords. However, for users who have everything synced to OneDrive, this should not pose a significant issue, as store apps can be restored from the library, and passwords can be retrieved from the Microsoft account. This tool is a practical solution for those looking to upgrade, making the process less daunting and more accessible.
In related news, there have been reports of another twist in the Windows 10 upgrade saga, with some users receiving the Windows 11 feature update even on systems that do not officially support the upgrade. According to Neowin, this has been observed in cases where the KB5001716 update was released, which is periodically used by Microsoft to encourage users to move to a newer version of Windows. While this development is not fully understood and lacks confirmation, it underscores the complexities and nuances involved in the upgrade process. As the usual Windows 10 updates are set to end in October, users are advised to take action, whether by extending updates or taking the free Windows 11 upgrade, to ensure they remain supported and secure.
In conclusion, Microsoft's announcement of a free Windows update marks a significant turning point in the company's strategy for Windows 10 and Windows 11. By providing users with more options and support for transitioning to Windows 11, Microsoft is demonstrating its commitment to user experience and security. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, with advancements in AI and browser technology, Microsoft's moves are geared towards positioning Windows 11 as the premier operating system for both personal and professional use. With the October deadline looming for the end of Windows 10 updates, the time for users to make a decision is now, and Microsoft's latest offerings are designed to make that decision easier and more compelling than ever.
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