October 16 – Microsoft is taking a bold step toward the future of personal computing by encouraging users to interact with their devices more naturally. As the company phases out Windows 10, it is simultaneously introducing a wave of artificial intelligence enhancements for Windows 11 designed to redefine how people use their PCs.
This week, Microsoft officially ended free security updates for Windows 10, marking the end of an era for one of its most widely adopted operating systems. Despite this change, millions of users around the globe continue to rely on Windows 10, many of them using older systems that cannot meet the hardware requirements of Windows 11. To motivate users to upgrade, Microsoft unveiled new Windows 11 features centered on its expanding AI assistant, Copilot.
A New Era of AI-Powered Interaction
Among the latest updates is a hands-free voice feature that allows users to activate their computer simply by saying, “Hey, Copilot.” This shift aims to make interacting with a PC more intuitive, minimizing the need for keyboards or touchpads. Microsoft’s goal is to turn everyday computing into a more conversational and fluid experience.
Windows 10 was first introduced in 2015 and has served as the foundation for millions of devices across homes, schools, and businesses. Its successor, Windows 11, launched in 2021, brought a more modern interface and tighter integration with Microsoft’s cloud and AI technologies. However, despite several years on the market, adoption has been slower than expected. Many users, particularly those with older laptops and desktops, have remained on Windows 10 due to hardware limitations or the comfort of familiarity.
Consumer advocates, such as Brenna Stevens from the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group, have voiced concerns over the challenges this transition creates. Stevens noted that users now face a difficult choice between risking exposure to cyber threats or discarding their older computers. She emphasized that for many families, small businesses, and schools, buying new hardware is not an easy or affordable option.
To help ease the transition, Microsoft announced that users can extend security updates for Windows 10 by paying an additional fee, with coverage lasting through October 2026. Some users, including those connected through Microsoft’s cloud services or living within the European Union, may qualify for complimentary extended support. Yet, this option will not apply to everyone, leaving millions of users without ongoing protection.
Nathan Proctor, who leads the Right to Repair campaign under PIRG, highlighted another pressing issue: the environmental impact of forced upgrades. He warned that millions of outdated computers could end up as electronic waste, contributing to pollution and resource depletion. Proctor urged users to explore repair or recycling options instead of sending old devices to landfills. He also called on Microsoft to design products that are easier to maintain and upgrade, ensuring a longer lifespan for consumer electronics.
Despite these concerns, Microsoft’s primary focus remains on promoting innovation in Windows 11. During the company’s announcement, Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Microsoft’s consumer division, described the new AI capabilities as a major leap forward. He compared the evolution of voice-based computing to the introduction of the mouse and keyboard, suggesting that this change will fundamentally reshape how people interact with technology.
One of the standout additions, Copilot Vision, offers users an intelligent layer of assistance that can analyze what is happening on their screen. Whether reviewing documents, gaming, or multitasking across various apps, Copilot Vision provides insights and guidance in real time. The company believes that this feature will make Windows 11 more adaptive and efficient, bridging the gap between human intent and machine understanding.
Mehdi acknowledged that it might take time for users to feel comfortable speaking to their computers, especially in shared work environments. However, he expressed confidence that the convenience and efficiency of natural voice commands would soon make them an everyday habit. He noted that, much like when people first started using a mouse, users will need time to understand how and when to use voice interaction effectively. “Now, talking to your PC will feel just as natural.”
These AI upgrades reflect Microsoft’s broader mission to integrate intelligent tools across its products. The company continues to compete with major players like Apple, Google, and OpenAI in shaping the next generation of AI-driven software. By embedding Copilot deeper into Windows 11, Microsoft aims to create a unified experience that keeps users connected to its ecosystem of cloud services and productivity tools.
Mehdi clarified that these updates are separate from Microsoft’s “Recall” feature, which gives Copilot the ability to remember and reference a user’s past on-screen activity. Originally introduced by CEO Satya Nadella, Recall represents a step toward more personalized AI experiences. However, due to privacy concerns from experts, its rollout has been gradual, with Microsoft emphasizing user control and data protection.