Microsoft 365 app support on Windows 10 will cease on October 14, 2025, coinciding with the overall end-of-support date for Windows 10. This announcement, while anticipated, raises questions, especially for those considering Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
ESU Program and App Functionality
The ESU program offers extended support for Windows 10 for an additional year at a cost. However, this extended support won’t cover Microsoft 365 apps. While the apps will continue to function, they won’t receive further updates after October 14. Microsoft acknowledges this could lead to potential performance and reliability issues down the line. Whether these issues will emerge within the ESU timeframe remains unclear.
The Difficult Transition to Windows 11
Microsoft’s transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 has proven challenging. A significant portion of users remain on Windows 10, even three years after Windows 11’s release. This resistance stems from various factors, including hardware incompatibility, negative public perception of Windows 11, and a slow adoption rate among gamers. Although Windows 11 recently surpassed Windows 10 in usage according to the October 2024 Steam hardware survey, the overall transition has been slower than Microsoft anticipated.
Microsoft’s Push for Upgrades
Microsoft’s efforts to encourage upgrades have included full-screen prompts and marketing campaigns promoting 2025 as “the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh.” However, a large segment of users only use PCs out of necessity and are unlikely to upgrade unless their current machines fail. Many businesses also hesitate to upgrade perfectly functional PCs.
Rethinking the Windows Upgrade Cycle?
The situation raises the question of whether another Windows iteration was truly necessary. Supporting a basic, no-frills version of Windows for users who prioritize stability over new features might be a viable alternative. While this approach might involve additional costs, it could potentially offset the expenses associated with the current upgrade struggles, marketing efforts, and user dissatisfaction.
Conclusion: Upgrade or Not?
The end of Microsoft 365 app support on Windows 10 marks a significant turning point. Users and businesses must decide whether to upgrade to Windows 11, invest in the ESU program while accepting the potential risks of using outdated apps, or explore alternative solutions. The decision ultimately depends on individual needs and priorities.
