It seems Microsoft is going all-in on Windows 11—and not in the subtle "please consider upgrading" kind of way. No, the tech titan has rolled out full-screen pop-up ads targeting Windows 10 users, not just nudging them toward Windows 11 but also suggesting they may need to buy a shiny new Copilot+ PC for that “ultimate Windows 11 experience.” Let’s break down Microsoft’s strategy, what Copilot+ PCs are bringing to the table, and why this push has left some users less than thrilled.
A user leaked one such pop-up as early as November 17, drawing widespread attention. Responses have been mixed, to put it diplomatically; while some users understand Microsoft’s desire to move everyone onto Windows 11, others feel the method is a bit pushy—especially for those comfortable with their existing setup.
The strategy seems to hinge on two things:
However, these features are hardware-intensive. That’s where the Copilot+ branding comes in. These devices boast the latest generation CPUs, dedicated AI accelerators, and other high-performance specs designed to maximize Windows 11's new capabilities. Models like Asus Zenbook S 16 and Vivobook 14 Flip, along with offerings from Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung, carry this branding to signify their readiness for Microsoft’s vision.
For casual users who primarily browse the web or write documents, an upgrade may not feel critical. For power users diving into productivity and AI-driven tasks? A Copilot+ PC could provide a significant boost.
Here’s the irony: Even users who have invested in Windows 11 aren’t entirely spared from the marketing blitz. Such moves suggest this is less about upgrading users and more about pursuing long-term revenue streams from associated ecosystems—think app stores, productivity suites, and AI add-ons.
The question is whether users—and the hardware market—are ready to keep up with Microsoft’s escalating expectations. If Copilot+ PCs are the markers of this new era, Microsoft has firmly planted its flag in the ground for where it believes personal computing is headed.
But whether the average consumer is ready to follow that flag? Only time will tell. Let us know what you think in the comments below: Is this AI-driven push the future you want—or are you staying put on Windows 10 for as long as you can?
Source: PCMag Middle East Microsoft Pushes Copilot+ PCs on Windows 10 Users With Pop-Up Ads
What’s Happening: Full-Screen Persuasion
In a move that feels only one small step away from being visited by Clippy’s digital ghost, Windows 10 users are being greeted with full-screen pop-up messages from Microsoft. These prompts encourage users not just to upgrade to Windows 11 but, in some cases, to purchase entirely new PCs featuring Microsoft’s Copilot+ suite of AI-driven features. The strategy is clear: Microsoft wants users to pair their shiny new OS with the capabilities of modern hardware that can handle its most demanding features.A user leaked one such pop-up as early as November 17, drawing widespread attention. Responses have been mixed, to put it diplomatically; while some users understand Microsoft’s desire to move everyone onto Windows 11, others feel the method is a bit pushy—especially for those comfortable with their existing setup.
Why This is Happening Now
Here’s the backdrop: Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 in October 2025. With about 61% of the global OS market share still held by Windows 10 (as of late 2024, according to StatCounter), convincing these users to upgrade isn’t just a priority—it’s a necessity. The company is clearly upping the ante as deadlines approach, fostering a sense of urgency by promoting AI-powered Copilot+ PCs.The strategy seems to hinge on two things:
- Compatibility Barriers: Many existing devices don’t meet Windows 11’s strict system requirements (more on this in a minute), making an upgrade impossible without a hardware investment.
- AI Integration: The Copilot+ branding emphasizes Microsoft’s vision for a future where artificial intelligence deeply integrates into everyday computing.
What’s All the Hype About Copilot+ PCs?
So, why these Copilot+ PCs specifically? What’s new about them?Copilot+ Explained
Copilot+ PCs are essentially enhanced systems designed to fully leverage Windows 11’s AI-based features. Think of Microsoft Copilot as your personal assistant—similar to ChatGPT, but deeply integrated into the Windows environment. Copilot can help draft emails, summarize long documents, automate tasks, adjust settings with natural language commands, and even provide real-time suggestions based on your workflow.However, these features are hardware-intensive. That’s where the Copilot+ branding comes in. These devices boast the latest generation CPUs, dedicated AI accelerators, and other high-performance specs designed to maximize Windows 11's new capabilities. Models like Asus Zenbook S 16 and Vivobook 14 Flip, along with offerings from Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung, carry this branding to signify their readiness for Microsoft’s vision.
Should You Buy a Copilot+ PC?
The big question remains: Do you really need a new PC to enjoy Windows 11? The short answer is no—not if your current hardware meets the minimum requirements.Windows 11 Compatibility Requirements
Windows 11 requires:- A compatible 64-bit processor (1 GHz or faster)
- 4 GB of RAM
- 64 GB of storage
- A DirectX 12 compatible GPU
- Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 enabled
So, Why the Hard Sell?
Microsoft’s push for Copilot+ PCs is less about necessity and more about enabling users to experience the full breadth of what Windows 11 can do. AI features like Copilot shine brightest on hardware built with these tools in mind. Older machines may perform sluggishly when handling these advanced capabilities.For casual users who primarily browse the web or write documents, an upgrade may not feel critical. For power users diving into productivity and AI-driven tasks? A Copilot+ PC could provide a significant boost.
Microsoft’s Growing Advertising Tactics
Full-screen pop-ups aren’t a new tactic for Microsoft, though they’re becoming more prevalent. Recently, Windows 11 users reported ads pushed directly to their Start Menus, advocating for apps available on the Microsoft Store or game-related promotions. Others have flagged intrusive notifications taking up large portions of their screens—annoyances that might drive users to consider ad-removal guides or personalization tweaks.Here’s the irony: Even users who have invested in Windows 11 aren’t entirely spared from the marketing blitz. Such moves suggest this is less about upgrading users and more about pursuing long-term revenue streams from associated ecosystems—think app stores, productivity suites, and AI add-ons.
Navigating the Ads—and Your Options
If you’re a Windows 10 user seeing these pop-ups, here’s how you can handle the situation:- Dismiss the Pop-Up: While annoying, the ads can be closed—Microsoft does not force immediate action.
- Remain on Windows 10: Users can continue using Windows 10 until October 2025, at which point they’ll need to decide between upgrading or paying for extended security updates.
- Plan Your Hardware Upgrade: If you’re leaning towards a new device, use this as an opportunity to scout alternatives. Look beyond Microsoft-marketed Copilot+ PCs and explore budget-friendly options that align with your needs.
- Disable Full-Screen Notifications: Adjust your system settings to reduce intrusive prompts, though this won’t entirely eliminate all ads.
Broader Implications: The Push for AI in Everyday Computing
Microsoft’s advertising push is only one piece of a larger puzzle. By emphasizing Copilot+ PCs, the tech giant signals a future where artificial intelligence forms the backbone of everyday interactions with your computer. Love it or hate it, this approach isn’t going anywhere.The question is whether users—and the hardware market—are ready to keep up with Microsoft’s escalating expectations. If Copilot+ PCs are the markers of this new era, Microsoft has firmly planted its flag in the ground for where it believes personal computing is headed.
But whether the average consumer is ready to follow that flag? Only time will tell. Let us know what you think in the comments below: Is this AI-driven push the future you want—or are you staying put on Windows 10 for as long as you can?
Source: PCMag Middle East Microsoft Pushes Copilot+ PCs on Windows 10 Users With Pop-Up Ads