Nonprofit organization Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has launched a petition urging Microsoft to extend support for Windows 10 beyond the slated cutoff date of October 14, 2025, PCWorld reports.
This petition, entitled "Tell Microsoft: Don't leave millions of computers behind," is gaining substantial traction, with more than 20,000 signatures and counting.
The driving force behind this movement is the fear that millions of Windows 10 computers will turn into electronic waste, straining both consumers' finances and the environment.
The PIRG's Noble Cause
Dedicated to consumer protection, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) aims to safeguard consumers from undue harm while advocating for sustainability and the environment.
PIRG's campaign argues that with the termination of Windows 10 support, countless functional computers will be prematurely discarded, representing an environmental catastrophe and financial burden for many users.
The Impending Crisis
As of now, there are less than two years left before Microsoft is set to cut support for Windows 10.
At the heart of the issue is the incompatibility of many older Windows 10 computers with the hardware requirements of Windows 11. The Register tells us that it is estimated that over 400 million PCs may be left stranded, unable to transition to Windows 11.
This looming crisis poses a significant challenge to Microsoft's sustainability goals, especially given the environmental consequences.
The discarded computers would contribute to e-waste, exacerbating the global problem of electronic waste disposal. The petition emphasizes that "All software reaches a point at which it's no longer supported, but when the consequences to our environment are this large, we shouldn't accept it."
Microsoft's Past Actions
To put this situation in context, Windows XP continued receiving support for approximately 13 years, showing Microsoft's previous commitment to users.
Furthermore, when Windows 10 launched, it boasted substantial backward compatibility, making it an easier transition for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users.
Given this history, PIRG finds Microsoft's abrupt shift to Windows 11 with stringent hardware requirements both surprising and detrimental.
The Petition's Call to Action
Addressed directly to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, the appeal implores Microsoft not to "junk millions of computers" and to consider the vast repercussions of prematurely discarding functional hardware.
PIRG's Director emphasizes that "Microsoft's decision to stop supporting millions of functional computers in our hospitals, businesses, and homes is a raw deal for customers who expect their expensive devices to last."
Microsoft's Response
As of now, Microsoft has not officially responded to the petition. It remains to be seen whether the tech giant will reconsider its stance and offer a solution that would benefit both users and the environment.
Stay posted here at Tech Times.
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