Microsoft's end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, has prompted a significant shift, with 780,000 users turning to Linux distributions. Zorin OS, a Linux-based system designed to rival macOS and Windows, recently surpassed one million downloads. Meanwhile, the company plans to evolve Windows 11 into an agentic AI operating system.
Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving approximately 400 million PCs without updates and security patches. This decision, described as unpopular, has left many users conflicted about their options for continuing to use their devices securely.
In response, a notable number of users—specifically 780,000—have migrated to Linux-based operating systems. Among these, Zorin OS has seen a surge in adoption, recently hitting one million downloads. Zorin, which aims to provide a familiar interface to compete with macOS and Windows, benefits from this transition as users seek alternatives to avoid upgrading hardware or paying for extended support.
Despite the backlash against Windows 10's retirement, Microsoft is focusing on the future of its platform. The company intends to transform Windows 11 into an 'agentic AI OS,' integrating advanced artificial intelligence capabilities to enhance user experience and functionality.
This shift highlights ongoing tensions in the operating system market, where legacy support ends force users toward new ecosystems, boosting open-source alternatives like Linux.