The resurgence of Windows 10 is creating quite the stir in the world of operating systems, with recent data indicating a notable decline in Windows 11’s market share. This shift is particularly intriguing given that we’re approaching the end of official support for Windows 10 in 2025.
Windows 11 Faces Market Share Challenges
Recent statistics from StatCounter reveal a concerning trend: after a brief period of growth, Windows 11 is once again losing ground to its predecessor, Windows 10. This decline was especially pronounced in late 2024, where market share metrics illustrated a downward trajectory for Windows 11 users, while Windows 10 reclaimed some of its lost users.
The highest market share for Windows 11 was recorded in October 2024 at 35.58%. However, by November, it had dipped to 34.94%, and further declined to 34.12% in December. In contrast, Windows 10’s presence surged from 60.95% in October to an impressive 62.7% by December, as depicted in the chart below:
It appeared that Windows 11 was gaining traction from April to October 2024, but the latter part of the year saw significant reversals in this trend. September had seen Windows 11 topping Steam’s charts as the most popular operating system, creating a sense of optimism for Microsoft’s upgrade initiatives. However, the latest statistics suggest challenges ahead for Windows 11.
Impending End of Support for Windows 10
Mark your calendars: Microsoft’s support for Windows 10 will officially end in October 2025. As we step into January 2025, the urgency for action is palpable, with less than nine months left for users to make critical decisions about their operating systems.
It is logical to assume that most individuals capable of upgrading their systems to Windows 11 without employing complex workarounds have already completed the transition. Consequently, those still running Windows 10 may face a crossroads: choosing between continuing with an unsupported operating system, purchasing additional support, opting for an installation of Windows 11 on non-supported hardware, or investing in a new PC equipped with Windows 11.
2025 promises to be a pivotal year for both Microsoft and the global community of PC users, as they navigate this transition and the resulting implications for their software ecosystems.
Additional Insights
1. Why is Windows 11 losing market share to Windows 10?
Windows 11 is experiencing a decline in market share primarily due to the impending end of support for Windows 10, which encourages users to stick with a familiar system rather than shifting to the newer OS. Furthermore, potential upgrade complications may deter users from transitioning.
2. What options do Windows 10 users have as support ends?
As Windows 10 support concludes, users can either continue using the OS without official support, procure an additional year of updates, attempt an installation of Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, or invest in a new PC that comes pre-installed with Windows 11.
3. What does the future look like for Windows 11?
While Windows 11 has a competitive edge regarding features and performance, its future success hinges on overcoming user hesitance and demonstrating clear value to encourage widespread adoption amidst the unique challenges presented by Windows 10’s support status.
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