Windows 10 Celebrates its 10th Anniversary Today and Reaches End of Support by October

Celebrating a Decade: The Story of Windows 10

On July 29, 2015, Microsoft introduced Windows 10 to the world—a launch that would fundamentally reshape how we think about personal computing, user engagement, and the evolution of the Windows platform. Today, Windows 10 turns 10 years old, marking a milestone not just for Microsoft but for the millions of users and businesses who made it one of the most prolific operating systems in history.

The Birth of Windows 10

Windows 10 arrived on the heels of Windows 8, which was polarizing for many due to its radical changes to the familiar Windows interface. Microsoft listened to user feedback and set out to build an OS that struck a balance between innovation and tradition. For the first time, Microsoft invited the public into the development process with the launch of the Windows Insider Program, allowing everyday users to shape the platform as it evolved.

Features at Launch

• Start Menu Returns: The beloved Start menu was restored, blending classic design with new Live Tiles.

• Universal Windows Platform: Apps could run on PCs, tablets, phones, Xbox, HoloLens, and IoT devices.

• Cortana Digital Assistant: Aimed to revolutionize productivity with voice AI.

• Microsoft Edge: A new, modern browser introduced to replace Internet Explorer.

• Free Upgrades: For the first year, users of Windows 7 and 8.1 could upgrade for free, helping rapid adoption.

An Operating System for All Devices

With the introduction of “OneCore,” Microsoft set out to allow Windows 10 to scale across an unprecedented range of devices—from desktops to Xbox to HoloLens. While Microsoft eventually retrenched from some non-PC devices, this philosophy enabled major technical flexibility and paved the way for the interconnected experience users expect today.

Evolving With Its Users

This Windows operating system was the first major OS to adopt “Windows as a Service”—rolling out two feature updates per year, as opposed to massive new releases every few years. Over its life, Windows 10 saw fourteen major updates, each bringing security, productivity, interface, and compatibility improvements.

Notable Features and Improvements Over the Decade

• Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL): Brought native Linux compatibility to Windows, revolutionizing the OS for developers.

• Windows Hello: Pushed biometric authentication into the mainstream for consumer and business laptops.

• Virtual Desktops (Task View): Improved multitasking for advanced users.

• Improved Security: Enhanced protections for enterprise, ransomware defenses, and multi-factor authentication.

• Store Integration: United apps, video, and eBook purchases in the Microsoft Store.

Controversies and Challenges

No platform can claim a decade of dominance without turbulence. Windows 10 was no stranger to controversy and ongoing criticism:

• Privacy Concerns: Microsoft faced backlash over telemetry and data collection, leading to more granular privacy controls.

• Update Reliability: Controversial and sometimes problematic updates were a source of user frustration.

• Incomplete Dark Mode: Many users lamented that dark mode support was inconsistent and never fully realized.

• Unfulfilled Cross-Device Vision: Despite OneCore, Windows 10 never became a dominant force on mobile or tablets, and Microsoft eventually abandoned its mobile OS.

The End of Support Timeline

Windows 10’s 10th anniversary is also a reminder that its end is on the horizon. Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 will receive security and feature updates until October 14, 2025. After that, users are encouraged to transition to Windows 11 or newer platforms to ensure continued support and security.

Ten Defining Achievements

1. Reintroduced a hybrid Start menu

2. Established the Windows Insider Program

3. Pioneered biometric authentication with Windows Hello

4. Created the Universal Windows Platform for multi-device capability

5. Launched Microsoft Edge as a new browsing standard

6. Allowed seamless digital entitlement and activation

7. Brought native Linux compatibility via WSL

8. Focused on regular, incremental updates

9. Improved system security for individuals and enterprises

10. Unified the Microsoft Store experience

Legacy

As Windows 10 enters its final year of mainstream support, its legacy is firmly established. It succeeded in healing the wounds of Windows 8, preparing the world for cloud-first, AI-enhanced, and security-conscious computing. With nearly 1.4 billion active devices at its peak, Windows 10 defined an era of productivity, play, and platform unification—and laid the technical and design groundwork for Windows 11 and beyond.

Happy 10th birthday, Windows 10! Enjoy the summer before your ultimate demise! /s