Dutch consumer's assoc. wants Microsoft to keep supporting Windows 10

The Consumers’ Association is calling on Microsoft to continue offering free updates for at least another year to users with Windows 10 computers that aren’t compatible with Windows 11. According to the advocacy group, this affects an estimated 2 million devices in the Netherlands, mainly from 2017 or earlier. The Consumers’ Association argues that Microsoft should not saddle consumers with unnecessary costs or conditions just to receive essential security updates.

The software company will end regular support for Windows 10 on October 14. However, according to the Consumers’ Association, business users will still receive support for three more years, provided they pay for it. Consumers with older laptops can get up to one additional year of updates, but only if they pay 30 dollars or use certain Microsoft services.

“Consumers are being put in an unnecessary dilemma,” said Consumers’ Association director Sandra Molenaar. She also believes Microsoft should not force consumers to prematurely discard perfectly functioning computers.

The Consumers’ Association also pointed to the environmental impact of Microsoft’s policy. “Encouraging consumers to replace devices that still function well goes against the principles of sustainability and the circular economy,” Molenaar said. “This approach contributes to unnecessary e-waste, which is a growing problem.”

The organization is urging regulators and EU lawmakers to step in. “Tech companies must be held accountable when their policies lead to avoidable costs or environmental damage,” said Molenaar. “There should be minimum update requirements for software tied to hardware lifespans.”

The Consumers’ Association contrasts Microsoft’s policy with moves by some smartphone manufacturers who now offer software updates for up to 7 years. Consumers increasingly expect long-term support. That should apply to laptops and desktops as well,” the organization said.

The Consumers’ Association advises people with older Windows 10 PCs to regularly back up data and consider installing third-party antivirus software if they choose not to pay for updates or upgrade to new devices after October.