Windows 10 End of Support: Microsoft's Fullscreen Warnings Explained

Goodbye, Windows 10—it’s been real. Microsoft has officially begun its campaign to remind users of the upcoming end-of-support date for the decade-old operating system with a direct approach: fullscreen warnings. Yes, you read that right. If you’re one of the millions of users clinging to Windows 10, brace yourself for messages popping up in fullscreen, urging you to switch to Windows 11 or explore other Microsoft-sanctioned options. Let’s dive into the details and, most importantly, what this all really means for you.

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What’s Happening and Why the Fuss?​

Starting October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or security patches for Windows 10. This is a major deal because Windows 10 is currently the Microsoft OS champion—powering over 62% of the 1.6 billion Windows PCs worldwide. With its official end-of-life announcement looming, Microsoft has made it very clear that if you stick with an unsupported operating system, you’re exposing yourself to security risks, performance issues, and an overall sense of dread.
To make sure the message is unmistakably clear (and unmissable), Microsoft has deployed fullscreen alerts directly on your screen if you’re still running Windows 10. These warnings nudge users to “level up” by transitioning to a Windows 11 PC or the brand-new lineup of Copilot+ devices with AI bells and whistles.
Now, fullscreen alerts are nothing new from Microsoft; they’ve done this before—remember the aggressive Windows 10 upgrade pushes for Windows 7 and 8.1 users? This time, though, the stakes are higher, mainly because Microsoft doesn’t just want you to upgrade your software—they want you to buy new hardware outright. More on this below.

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Why Push the Upgrade? The Hardware Game​

The Cold Truth of Compatibility​

While certain PC enthusiasts may swear by sticking to Windows 10 or upgrading via unofficial routes, the reality is hardware-based. Windows 11 has strict requirements, like TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), Secure Boot, and relatively modern processors (2018 and later). If your trusty machine doesn’t meet these specs, upgrading is simply not feasible.
And no, Microsoft isn’t shy about underlining this fact. Instead of merely offering users a straightforward software update path, their fullscreen message points you in the direction of shiny, new hardware. After all, why stop at selling software when the real money lies in moving hardware off the shelves?
This move isn’t just about technology—it’s also about money and sustainability. Critics have pointed out that these compatibility standards could potentially send millions of functioning laptops straight into landfills, raising environmental concerns about planned obsolescence. But, for users inclined to ‘future-proof’ their setups, AI-savvy devices like Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs promise cutting-edge functionality… at a cost.

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Crunching Your Options as a Windows 10 User​

The fullscreen alert may feel annoying, intrusive, and even borderline aggressive, but the message deserves a closer look. If you’re still riding the Windows 10 wave, here's how you can navigate your choices:

1. Free Upgrade to Windows 11​

• If your PC meets the system requirements, you’re eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11. Use the PC Health Check app to check compatibility.
• Requirements include:
  • 64-bit processor
  • 4GB of RAM
  • 64GB storage
  • TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot enabled
• Be warned: while bypass methods using tools like Rufus exist, they could hinder future updates. Use at your own risk.

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2. Buy a Windows 11-Compatible PC​

• Microsoft is nudging users toward their Copilot+ PCs, which leverage AI for features like Recall (an AI-powered timeline to “scroll back through everything” on your device) and deeper integration with Windows 11.
• These are high-end machines with flashy specs, sleek designs, and dedicated AI keys (the first major keyboard update since 1994’s Start button!). Brands like ASUS, Lenovo, and HP, alongside Microsoft’s own Surface line, have thrown their hats into the Copilot+ ring.
• Expect top-tier pricing. New hardware isn’t cheap.

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3. Pay for Extended Security Updates (ESU)​

• For those unwilling or unable to upgrade, Microsoft has, for the first time, extended its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to regular consumers.
  • Year 1 price: $30 (£24)
  • Year 2 price: $60 (£48)
  • Year 3 price: $120 (£96)
• While prices are progressively steeper (it’s meant to incentivize upgrades), this option ensures continued security patches for up to three years.
• Ideal for users attached to their existing hardware or who need time before transitioning.

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What About Linux or Alternatives?​

This is less of a mentioned option in Microsoft's strategy—but some users may consider ditching Windows altogether. Various Linux distributions (like Ubuntu and Fedora) are free, open-source, and lightweight alternatives. While this is a valid route, it involves a learning curve and might not be feasible for non-tech-savvy users or those reliant on software with no Linux-compatible alternatives.

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Why the Copilot+ Hype? Is It Worth It?​

The Copilot+ branding, introduced with these AI-heavy PCs, highlights Microsoft’s shift toward artificial intelligence. These systems are packed with exclusive features aimed at boosting productivity and harnessing machine learning. For instance, Recall, the headlining AI feature of Copilot+ PCs, provides users with a fully searchable history of their files, documents, and interactions.
Other rumored perks include faster processing, better battery life, and enhanced security configurations, all thanks to these machines’ AI capabilities. But let’s be real—most of these features exceed the needs of average users. For businesses or power users reliant on heavy multitasking and cloud AI, they’re an exciting prospect. For everyone else, it’s probably overkill.

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Turning Fullscreen Panic into a Plan​

Microsoft’s fullscreen warnings may seem dramatic, but they’re a timely wake-up call for Windows 10 users. The era of Microsoft gracefully supporting outdated software is ending, and with a clear October 2025 deadline, planning ahead is crucial.

Final Thoughts​

Here’s the TL;DR:

• Jump to Windows 11 if your device supports it.
• Budget for either new hardware or ESU if you want to avoid risks.
• Don’t ignore these alerts—they’re not just clickbait. Running an unsupported OS after 2025 comes with vulnerabilities, which can lead to anything from ransomware to productivity nightmares.

Sure, the approach by Microsoft—fullscreen nudges and unapologetically hawking new gadgets—feels pushy, but the numbers don’t lie. Windows 10’s dominance means this messaging will impact a huge share of users. As Microsoft closes the chapter on its beloved OS, navigating this transition thoughtfully will ensure you're not caught off guard when October 2025 rolls around.

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What do you think about this fullscreen campaign? Over the top, or fair warning? Share your thoughts in the forum! Let’s discuss the best way forward for Windows 10 loyalists.

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Source: GB News Ahead of critical Windows 10 deadline, Microsoft kickstarts fullscreen takeover of YOUR laptop and PC screen