Microsoft has agreed to provide Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area (EEA) with free extended security updates until 13th October 2026.
Microsoft’s decision follows pressure from representatives of the Euroconsumers group, who pointed out that Microsoft’s plan to stop providing security updates as of 14th October 2025 was in violation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act. However, one can only suspect that Europe’s history of litigation against Microsoft also played a role.
Considering Europe accounts for a mere 6.8% of the world’s land area, this decision must surely leave the rest of the world more than a bit miffed, and it just goes to show that the squeaky wheel does indeed get the most oil.
I cannot help wondering if this decision by Microsoft might lead to more countries applying for an exemption, maybe even a class action lawsuit. It certainly seems very unfair to afford a comparatively small number of consumers preferential treatment while the rest of the world is forced to either pay or meet Microsoft’s requirements to get ESU for free.
One thing I am certain of is that Australia will not agitate for free ESU. Our current government is as weak as water and way too busy pandering to minority groups, activists, and do-gooders to be concerned about what might be best for all Australians.
NOTE: I have not managed to locate any information regarding this decision coming directly from Microsoft. However, I did come across a letter from Euroconsumers to Microsoft praising the decision, which reads in part:
We are pleased to learn that Microsoft will provide a no-cost Extended Security Updates (ESU) option for Windows 10 consumer users in the European Economic Area (EEA). We are also glad this option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards ~ <source>
Yet another polarizing decision from Microsoft. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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