If Microsoft stops supporting Windows 10, 240 million computers could end up in landfills
According to Canalys Research, 240 million personal computers (PCs) may be disposed of as a result of Microsoft Corp.’s decision to stop supporting the Windows 10 operating system, potentially contributing to landfill trash.
320,000 automobiles’ worth of electronic garbage, or 480 million kg, may come from these PCs.
Even though many PCs would continue to function for years after OS support ends, Canalys cautioned that there might not be much of a market for hardware without security upgrades.
Microsoft revealed that, for an undisclosed annual fee, it will continue to deliver security updates for Windows 10 devices through October 2028.
According to Canalys, upgrading to a modern PC may be more affordable if the extended Windows 10 support pricing structure follows previous trends. This would result in a greater number of older PCs being sent for disposal.
By October 2025, Microsoft plans to stop supporting Windows 10. The upcoming operating system generation is expected to provide sophisticated artificial intelligence technology to personal computers, which could stimulate the stagnant PC market.
A request for comment regarding the environmental effects of disposing of Windows 11 incompatible devices was not immediately answered by Microsoft.
Hard drives from servers and personal computers are recycled to collect elements that can be utilized in motors for electric cars and even in the production of renewable energy.
If historical trends are followed by the extended Windows 10 support pricing structure, moving to a new PC might be more cheap, according to Canalys. As a consequence, more outdated PCs would be submitted for trash.
Microsoft intends to stop supporting Windows 10 by October 2025. Advanced artificial intelligence technology for personal computers is anticipated to be introduced with the next generation of operating systems, potentially reviving the sluggish PC market.
Microsoft did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the environmental effects of disposing of Windows 11 incompatible devices.
Recycled hard drives from computers and servers are used to gather materials that can be used in electric car motors and even in the generation of renewable energy.
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