Recently, an amusing oversight by Microsoft showcased the Windows 10 graphical user interface while discussing the Night Light feature on their support page, @MicrosoftHelps. This occurred despite the fact that Windows 10 has officially reached its end of support as of October 15, 2025.
An Unexpected Throwback to Windows 10
Microsoft is currently making a concerted effort to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11, yet this slip serves as a reminder of the once-popular operating system. On October 21, 2025, less than a week after Windows 10’s retirement, the support account posted a GIF illustrating how to activate the Night Light feature.
However, the GIF prominently displays the Windows 10 Action Center—a feature that has been replaced in Windows 11 by the Quick Settings panel and Notifications Center.
The accompanying ALT text humorously states, “Graphical depiction of turning on the night light setting on a Windows PC, ” indicating that Microsoft’s reference point still leans toward Windows 10.
User Reactions to the Windows 10 UI Reference
Since the post went live, it has attracted nearly half a million views. Yet, many users expressed confusion, speculating that this could be a new UI they haven’t yet encountered. One notable comment reads, “how do I get this UI on my laptop? This isn’t Windows 11, and there’s no other supported version.”
Adding to the comedic situation, an automated reply from Microsoft Support interpreted the user’s inquiry about the UI as a mention of a stolen Windows device.
Another meme-worthy moment was highlighted when the Support bot mistakenly identified the posted Windows UI animation as Apple’s Siri interface, prompting the question of whether Microsoft needs to enhance its AI capabilities.
In contrast, some users took the opportunity to mock Microsoft’s decision to reference a discontinued OS, while others expressed their longing for the Windows 10 UI.
Why Not Showcase Windows 11’s Night Light Feature?
Despite a widespread preference for Windows 10, continuing to use its interface is not strategically sound for Microsoft, especially since recent data from the Steam Hardware and Software Survey indicates that Windows 11’s market share has surpassed that of its predecessor.
It appears that the individual responsible for the post may not have had access to recent visual representations of the Night Light feature in Windows 11 and resorted to using a file that dates back to the feature’s inception.
In a silver lining, the post did contain a link directing users to the display support page for Windows 11, conveniently listing information on both operating systems.
Activating Night Light in Windows 11
Enabling the Night Light feature in Windows 11 is quite straightforward. Users need merely to access the Quick Settings panel, locate the Night Light option, and turn it on to enjoy a warmer screen color.
If it isn’t visible in the Quick Settings, you can navigate to Settings > Display to toggle Night Light on. Options for customization, including scheduling the feature to activate at specific times, are also available.
Users can adjust the warmth intensity according to personal preference. Increased warmth tones reduce harmful blue light, potentially benefiting eye health during prolonged screen time.
Does Night Light in Windows 11 Improve Sleep Quality?
As nighttime approaches, the body produces melatonin, a hormone that makes us feel sleepy, triggered by the orange hues we typically see at dusk. This natural process is often disrupted by the blue light emitted from screens, which can hinder melatonin production.
Research from studies indicates that while Night Light can help mitigate these negative effects, the overall impact of late-night screen use poses more significant risks. Interestingly, I personally utilized Night Light on my Windows 11 device and experienced an unexpectedly early sense of drowsiness.
Previously, before Windows 10 integrated the Night Light feature, I relied on the third-party application f.lux, which performed a similar function. Notably, f.lux remains available on the Microsoft Store and even received a 2024 Microsoft Store Award in the Health & Fitness category, reflecting a need for awareness of the native features included with Windows.
It’s time for Microsoft to focus on developing such practical features that enhance user experience without necessitating AI or data collection.
Lastly, if your system is still operating on Windows 10, the original post from Microsoft Support regarding Night Light may evoke a sense of nostalgia. However, if you have not enrolled in Windows 10 Extended Security Updates, your device may be vulnerable. We strongly recommend taking action to secure your system if you haven’t done so already.
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