Windows 10 support ends as Microsoft teases major AI-driven OS announcement

The End of an Era: Windows 10 Support Concludes, Microsoft Hints at AI-Driven Future

The reign of Windows 10 has officially come to an end. As of October 14th, Microsoft has ceased providing official support for its once-ubiquitous operating system. This means that devices still running Windows 10 will no longer receive crucial security updates or bug fixes, leaving them vulnerable to emerging threats unless users take proactive measures. Microsoft, in a somber announcement on its official blog, bid farewell to the OS and helpfully provided a definitive list of the now unsupported versions, subtly nudging users towards the latest iteration, Windows 11.

For those hesitant to embrace the future of Windows, a lifeline, albeit a temporary one, has been extended. The "Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program for Windows 10 consumers" offers a year of critical monthly security and quality updates. This program, however, comes with a time limit, concluding in October of next year. Users can enroll at any point, even on the eve of its expiration. Microsoft's message is clear: "The servicing for this version of Windows 10 has ended. Devices running the following versions of Windows 10 will no longer receive monthly security and quality updates that include protection from the latest security threats. To continue to receive security and quality updates, Microsoft recommends updating to the latest version of Windows 11."

Navigating the Post-Support Landscape: Options and Costs

While the ESU program is not entirely free, there are pathways to acquire it without direct payment. Previously, ITC.ua highlighted specific conditions that could make users eligible for complimentary ESU access. For those who prefer a more straightforward acquisition, Microsoft's store offers an additional year of coverage for $30, catering to individuals who might not want to create an online account or fulfill other criteria. Alternatively, a curious perk allows for the purchase of ESU using 1000 Microsoft bonus points, presenting a unique reward redemption opportunity.

A Glimpse into the Future: AI Takes Center Stage

But the conclusion of Windows 10 support is not merely a farewell; it’s also a prelude. In a cryptic but exciting announcement via its official X account, Windows declared, "Something important is happening on Thursday." The accompanying words, "Your hands are about to get a vacation. Time to let your fingers rest," strongly suggest an imminent shift towards advanced AI integration. This aligns with the visionary statements made by Microsoft's Vice President, David Weston, in August, who painted a picture of a future Windows, circa 2030, operating without the need for traditional mouse and keyboard input.

Weston's earlier prediction, though sounding ambitious, is now being further elaborated upon. He envisions a future where computers possess sensory capabilities akin to our own – the ability to see and hear what we do. This advanced perception will unlock unprecedented levels of interaction, enabling users to engage with their devices through natural language, requesting and executing far more complex tasks than ever before. Pavan Davuluri, the current head of Windows, recently articulated this vision, stating that users will soon be able to converse with their PCs not just during typing or other operations, but also while communicating with others. The fundamental principle, he emphasized, is to foster a semantic understanding between the user and the computer, ensuring the machine truly grasps the intent behind each interaction.

Therefore, on the very heels of Windows 10's retirement, the tech world is buzzing with anticipation for what might be dubbed "AI-dows" – a revolutionary operating system powered by intelligent agents, poised to redefine our relationship with personal computing. The era of the intuitive, AI-driven interface is dawning, promising a future where technology anticipates our needs and responds with remarkable understanding.