In a significant shift, Microsoft has announced it will discontinue support for Windows 10 in October of this year. As users either move toward extended support alternatives or consider changing their operating systems, a legal challenge has emerged from a California resident against the technology firm. The plaintiff alleges that Microsoft’s decision to phase out Windows 10 support is a strategic maneuver aimed at compelling consumers to purchase new hardware and bolstering its position in the generative AI marketplace. This lawsuit seeks a court ruling that would mandate Microsoft to continue offering free support for Windows 10 until the user base declines considerably.
California Resident Files Lawsuit Against Microsoft Over Windows 10 Support Termination
Lawrence Klein, a Southern California man, has initiated legal action against Microsoft, case ID 25CU041477C (via). Klein owns two laptops running on Windows 10 that are not eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11. He argues that the cessation of support will render his devices effectively obsolete.
The lawsuit contends that Microsoft’s action is part of a broader initiative to gain a stronger foothold in the generative AI sector by encouraging users to migrate to Windows 11, which is equipped with the AI assistant, Copilot. These functionalities are optimized for devices with a neural processing unit (NPU), a feature predominantly found in newer models but lacking in older equipment. The filing states,
“With only three months remaining until support concludes for Windows 10, it is probable that countless users will either forgo purchasing new devices or opt not to pay for extended support. This situation places many users—including businesses that manage sensitive consumer information—at increased risk for cyberattacks or data security breaches, a concern that Microsoft fully understands.”
“In essence, Microsoft’s long-term strategy to cement its market dominance could jeopardize not only the data security of its customers but also that of individuals who may not directly utilize Microsoft products.”
Klein is additionally requesting a court order compelling Microsoft to maintain complimentary support for Windows 10 until the number of users falls below an acceptable level. The suit also seeks reimbursement for legal expenses incurred.
Previously, Microsoft had indicated that support for Windows 10 would conclude on October 14, 2025. Users with Windows 10 devices are encouraged to make the transition to Windows 11. For devices that do not meet the necessary specifications for the latest operating system, users are advised to enroll in the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program or consider replacing their devices with ones compatible with Windows 11.
