MICROSOFT SUED OVER ENDING WINDOWS 10 SUPPORT. (PHOTO).

Microsoft sued over ending Windows 10 support

A Southern California man has filed a lawsuit against Microsoft over the company’s plan to end support for Windows 10, its widely used operating system. Despite Windows 11 being released nearly four years ago, millions of users still rely on the older Windows 10, which only recently lost its lead in popularity last July.

Data shows that about 43% of desktop Windows users continue to run Windows 10. However, Microsoft will stop providing routine updates and security patches for Windows 10 on October 14. While computers running Windows 10 won’t stop functioning immediately, the lack of updates raises concerns about security vulnerabilities.

The plaintiff, Lawrence Klein, owns two laptops that run Windows 10 and claims they will become obsolete once support ends. In his complaint filed in San Diego Superior Court, Klein alleges that Microsoft is using the end of Windows 10 support to push customers toward purchasing new devices and to strengthen its hold on the generative AI market. Windows 11 includes Microsoft’s AI software like the Copilot chatbot, which requires newer hardware featuring neural processing units that older devices lack.

Klein warns that millions of users, including businesses that store sensitive data, may not upgrade or pay for extended support, leaving them vulnerable to cyberattacks. He argues that Microsoft’s strategy risks the security of both its customers and others who may not even use Microsoft products.

Although the Windows 11 upgrade is free, an estimated 240 million PCs lack the hardware to run it effectively. Without security updates, these devices become more exposed to malware and viruses. Users can purchase extended security updates through 2028, but at increasing costs—starting at $30 per device for individuals and rising to $244 per device for businesses in the third year.

Industry analysts predict Microsoft’s phase-out of Windows 10 will drive millions to buy new devices, potentially creating significant electronic waste. One analyst noted that if all discarded laptops were stacked, the pile would reach 600 kilometers high—far beyond the distance to the moon.

Klein’s lawsuit asks the court to require Microsoft to continue supporting Windows 10 for free until usage falls below 10% of all Windows users. He does not seek personal damages but requests that Microsoft cover attorneys’ fees.

Microsoft has not responded to requests for comment.