
Official support for the Windows 10 operating system will conclude in October 2025. However, given the vast number of devices still running Windows 10—many of which fail to meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11—Microsoft has introduced a one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for individual and home users.
Despite this extension, Windows 10 will reach its ultimate end of support in October 2026. In anticipation, Google has already begun integrating code into the Chrome browser to assess whether a device is eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11, likely in preparation for the 2025 deadline.
These telemetry scripts collect system hardware data to determine whether the device satisfies Windows 11’s requirements. For Google, this data provides valuable insights into how many PCs still rely on Windows 10, thereby helping to inform decisions regarding the continued support lifecycle of Chrome on that platform.
Typically, once an operating system reaches end-of-life, Google does not immediately cease Chrome support. However, support is gradually phased out over time. For example, newer versions of Chrome are no longer compatible with Windows 7, 8, or 8.1.
At present, Google has not disclosed a definitive timeline for ending Chrome support on Windows 10. Nevertheless, as the adoption of Windows 11 accelerates, Chrome support for Windows 10 will eventually be phased out. That said, even after October 2025, Chrome will likely remain compatible with Windows 10 for a limited period.
The statistical code introduced by Google collects the following data:
- CPU specifications, including brand and model
- System memory details, such as whether it meets or exceeds 4GB
- Available disk space, verifying whether there is at least 64GB free
- TPM compliance via the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 API
Each time Chrome is launched, it anonymously transmits this information to Google’s servers. Once the telemetry feature is officially rolled out, Google will be able to estimate the proportion of users still operating on Windows 10 versus Windows 11.
For users who continue to rely on Windows 10, Microsoft currently offers a one-year security update extension through the ESU program, with three options available:
- A paid plan costing $30 per PC for one year of additional support
- One year of support granted via use of the Windows Backup tool
- One year of support redeemed through Microsoft Rewards points
The ESU initiative is currently being tested within the Windows Insider Program and is expected to roll out to the general Windows 10 user base in the coming months. Upon registration, users will continue to receive critical security updates for one additional year.
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- Windows 10 ESU Program: A Lifeline for Holdouts, But at What Cost?
- Microsoft Pushes Windows 11 Upgrade Over ESU: Highlighting AI, Security, & Speed Ahead of Win10 EOL
- Windows 10 Users Get Free ESU: Microsoft Offers 1 Year of Security Updates via Backup or Rewards