Man in California Files Suit Against Microsoft for Ending Windows 10 Support, Seeking Unpaid Extension
In a recent development, a legal battle has been initiated against Microsoft by Lawrence Klein, a resident of San Diego, California. The lawsuit accuses Microsoft of leveraging its dominant operating system (OS) market position to monopolize the generative AI market by making older devices obsolete and pushing for costly upgrades due to Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements.
At the heart of the dispute is Microsoft's decision to discontinue support for Windows 10 in October 2025. With Windows 10 holding around 43-45% market share, the lawsuit argues that millions of users will be adversely affected as many devices will be unable to upgrade to Windows 11 without new hardware. This could either force users to pay for extended security updates or replace their devices, leading to an increase in e-waste and financial burden.
Klein seeks an injunction requiring Microsoft to continue supporting Windows 10 without additional fees until the user base falls below a certain threshold. The lawsuit also focuses on consumer rights, contending that Microsoft's strategy is strategically pushing its AI-optimized Windows 11 ecosystem to monopolize the emerging generative AI market.
The complaint highlights the risks associated with discontinuing Windows 10, including potential cyberattacks and data security incidents for users who do not buy new devices or pay for extended support. It also requests the court to ensure Microsoft ends misleading advertising about Windows 10 and to require the tech giant to communicate transparently about alternative security options for Windows 10 users.
As of now, Microsoft is expected to put up a strong fight in the legal battle. It's important to note that, as of August 2025, no other plaintiffs or authorities have joined this lawsuit, and its current legal status beyond its filing and public discussions is not known.
In April 2025, Windows 10 users accounted for approximately 52.94% of all Windows users. Microsoft is currently offering "free" upgrades to Windows 11 for current Windows 10 users, but accessibility is dependent on the hardware of the devices.
Stevie Bonifield, a freelance tech journalist specializing in mobile tech, gaming gear, and accessories, is closely following the developments in this case. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome could have significant implications for both Microsoft and its customers.
[1] Microsoft's Windows 11 Requirements Raise Hardware Concerns [2] Microsoft's Windows 11: What You Need to Know [3] Windows 11: What It Means for Consumers and Businesses [4] Microsoft's Windows 11: A Monopoly in the Making? [5] The Impact of Windows 11 on Older Devices and Users
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