Windows 10: New Features Amidst the Countdown to End of Support

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As we approach the twilight of Windows 10—a platform that has been a steadfast companion for millions since its launch—Microsoft continues to pave the road to transition with a surprising generosity. With less than a year until official support ends for this aging operating system, you might expect a total phase-out, yet Microsoft is busy grooming the old girl with fresh features borrowed from the newer Windows 11.

Windows 10: The End of an Era, or Just the Beginning of a New Chapter?​

Windows 10 has enjoyed significant popularity, powering devices across the globe for nearly a decade. Come late October 2025, that era will officially conclude, marking the start of a new chapter for its users—potentially forcing them to migrate to Windows 11 or face a future without updates or support.
Despite this impending deadline, Microsoft hasn't completely severed ties with its legacy OS just yet. Recently, insiders and leakers, like PhantomOfEarth, have pointed out that Windows 10's latest preview build—version 19045—comes with features that closely mirror those in Windows 11. This begs the question: with such close proximity to its end of life, why is Microsoft investing time in adding fresh features to Windows 10 instead of putting all their eggs in the Windows 11 basket?

New Features in Build 19045: What’s Coming?​

Here's where it gets interesting. This latest update introduces several features that Windows 11 users have enjoyed for months. Here’s a sneak peek into some noteworthy additions:
  1. The 'Copy' Button in Share Menu: Originally a Windows 11 feature, this handy functionality allows users to effortlessly copy files and preview their icons and sizes. However, this feature is not yet live in the preview but requires some coaxing through ViVeTool to unveil its hidden potential.
  2. Account Manager Panel in Start Menu: Reflecting Windows 11's aesthetic and functionality, this account manager panel streamlines user management seamlessly within the Start menu. However, it also comes with a little cost: the 'Lock' option has been relocated to the power menu.
  3. Top Cards in Settings: Featured under the Settings > System > About section, "top cards" will present crucial hardware specs at a glance. This includes a user-friendly FAQ section designed to demystify how these specifications impact overall system performance—a thoughtful addition for those who may feel lost navigating hardware jargon.

Why Still Bother with Windows 10?​

You might be wondering—why does Microsoft continue to enhance a product it plans to sunset? The answer may lie in the sheer volume of users who still rely on Windows 10, alongside a broader strategy to ease the transition to Windows 11. By enriching the last experiences with Windows 10, Microsoft not only smooths the path for users but also buys time for often-delayed migrations.
In a world where computers, laptops, and processors we depend upon are slowly falling out of favor, the call for extending Windows 10's lifespan is growing louder. Some industry experts predict the alternative may lead to an influx of "junked" computers across households and businesses alike.

Conclusion: A Surprising Lifeline for Windows 10 Users​

Navigating the waters of operating systems can be daunting—especially with looming deadlines and the pressure to upgrade. However, Microsoft’s decision to roll out new features for Windows 10, even as it approaches its cutoff date, represents a rare act of kindness in the tech realm. As we forge ahead, it’s clear that for now, Windows 10 retains a last flicker of life, providing users with a transitional bridge to the future of Windows.
Stay tuned, keep those computers updated, and maybe—just maybe—you can enjoy those Windows 11 features before the clock runs out on Windows 10. As the tech world evolves at breakneck speed, one truth remains unaffected: users always appreciate a thoughtful farewell from their operating systems.
Source: TweakTown Windows 10's on life support, with less than a year left, but it still gets Windows 11 features