MS Extends Windows 10 Support Until October 2027
MS has officially extended support for Windows 10 until October 2027, but this decision seems to stem more from necessity than generosity. Recent statistics show that many users are still reluctant to switch to Windows 11, even as the original extended support deadline for Windows 10 approaches. According to HP, roughly 30% of customers are still using Windows 10, representing a significant portion of the user base.
MS continues to avoid disclosing the market share of its operating systems or specific versions, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact number of Windows 10 users. While third-party platforms like StatCounter and Steam's survey provide some insights, their data is incomplete. StatCounter may lack precision, and Steam's survey only reflects the preferences of gamers who voluntarily participate.
Despite these limitations, HP's internal data might offer the most reliable estimate of current Windows 10 usage.
HP's Insights on Windows 11 Adoption
During an investor call in May 2026, Karen L. Parkhill, HP's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, shared observations about the adoption of Windows 11. She mentioned, “We noticed solid growth in both EMEA and APJ this quarter, partly driven by the expected momentum from Win 11. Currently, approximately 30% of the installed base remains on Windows 10.”
HP emphasized that the Windows 11 refresh cycle continues to boost PC sales, particularly in Europe and Asia. Parkhill further added, “The Win 11 refresh we've initiated in EMEA and APJ is now on par with North America.”
This indicates that there are still substantial opportunities, as many PCs need to be upgraded from Windows 10. Ketan Patel, President of HP's Personal Systems business, stressed this point: “First, with Windows 11, 30% of the installed base still needs refreshing. That represents one opportunity for short-term growth.”
Patel also highlighted that the increasing demand for AI PCs and high-end devices is driving growth, particularly in Europe and the Asia Pacific region. “Across all three regions, we are seeing structural demand for AI PCs and premium devices, largely due to the edge AI opportunities I mentioned earlier, which remain strong for Q3 and Q4,” Patel explained.
Windows 10 Support Extended Until October 2027
Originally launched on July 29, 2015, Windows 10's mainstream support was scheduled to end on October 14, 2025. However, recognizing that many consumers and businesses were hesitant to upgrade to Windows 11, MS extended support to October 2026. In a surprising move, MS has now extended support further to October 12, 2027.
According to a MS support document, “Windows 10 support has ended. You can enroll in ESU any time before the program concludes on October 12, 2027. If you're already enrolled, your coverage will automatically continue through that date—no action required.”
MS explained that the extension aims to give users more time to transition to Windows 11 systems while ensuring they continue to receive critical security updates. However, the company has yet to confirm if October 2027 will indeed mark the final deadline.
Implications of the Extension
The additional year of support, which includes monthly security updates, offers a considerable advantage to the millions of PCs still operating on Windows 10. It's likely that MS extended the deadline to accommodate the significant number of users who have not yet upgraded. HP's data corroborates this, estimating that about 30% of users remain on Windows 10.
This extended timeline may provide an opportunity for Windows 11 to gain traction among users who have been hesitant to make the upgrade. MS has also acknowledged the need to enhance the core elements of its operating system. CEO Satya Nadella recently remarked that the company is focused on winning back the loyalty of Windows “fans,” reflecting a moment of introspection for the tech giant.
Conclusion
The extended support for Windows 10 serves as a critical lifeline for users who have delayed transitioning to Windows 11. With MS and leading PC manufacturers like HP promoting the benefits of upgrading, it remains to be seen whether this additional year will significantly accelerate adoption rates.
What about you? Are you still using Windows 10, or have you upgraded to Windows 11? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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