We wrote in June that Windows 11 would leave millions behind because of the fact that their processors weren't as advanced and feature-rich as Microsoft would prefer.
Microsoft has changed its mind and revealed to The Verge that it will not technically abandon the millions of computers. Instead, you'll be able manually install the Windows 11 ISO from the download page on any device. Microsoft is also expanding its official compatibility list to include a number of Intel's most expensive Xeon desktop processors, and the most expensive line of Core X desktop processors. It will also include the Intel chip that was shipped with its Surface Studio 2. This means it doesn't have to defend the idea to abandon a product it continues to sell.
Although it may seem that Microsoft is opening the floodgates to Windows 11 upgrades, the reality is that Windows 11 has not changed as much as you might think. Although DIY PC gamers, IT administrators, and other power users can perform a clean installation of Windows 11 on hardware that dates back years, it seems like Microsoft will encourage millions of people to replace their Windows PCs.
Think about it: You have never heard of ISOs and you are looking to upgrade your old machine to Windows 11. Microsoft's PC Health Check app might be the best tool for you. However, this tool could lead you astray. Microsoft informs The Verge that the app will still verify your CPU against Microsoft's list of supported processors. It will also direct you to support articles that can help you if your chips are not compatible with Microsoft's preferred specifications.
A compatibility checker app is not something most Windows PC owners will use. They will just wait for Windows Update to bring it to their computers for free. This is similar to how Windows 10 was free when it launched in 2015. Microsoft will update only computers that have supported CPUs.
It makes sense to avoid automatic updates for CPUs not supported. Microsoft does not want to be held responsible if your Windows experience is worsened, and it cannot test every configuration.
What could be worse? Microsoft claims it sounds awful at first. It says that 52 percent of kernel mode crashes, also known as the infamous BSOD, were caused by systems that weren't meeting its minimum specification. Machines that met it had a 99.8 per cent crash-free experience. It means that there was a 3 in 1000 chance of a BSOD, compared to a 2 in 1,000 chance. This extra downtime may not be acceptable for a system administrator who manages thousands of older computers. However, it would likely be acceptable for an average user who buys a new computer every four to six months.
We have already explained that Microsoft has security reasons to insist upon more stringent hardware requirements such as TPM 2.0 from its desktop and laptop partners. Although the company has been subject to some very troubling attacks, it would like to prevent even more. However, Microsoft only has so much power over the PC industry to ensure that security features are turned on. Microsoft technically has mandated TPM 2.0 from July 2016.
For those who buy a computer with preloaded Windows 11, none of this will pose a problem. Microsoft has made it clear that it is not locking Windows 11 to these security features. The list of supported CPUs feels more like a gift to Intel or PC manufacturers, where Microsoft makes a profit off every Windows 10 license sold, than a security measure. It will be a tragedy, especially for the environment, that people end up buying PCs that can run the new OS.
Kevin Beaumont, a security expert and former Microsoft threat intelligence analyst, stated earlier this year that the motivations of the company are questionable.
MS is trying to convince people to replace their items for security reasons, even though they are in the middle of a pandemic and orgs are suffering.
Purchase a Surface No. Get a better OS. Kevin Beaumont (@GossiTheDog), June 28, 2021
Microsoft could push many people to buy a new computer in the fall. PC manufacturers will gladly help. It is amazing to see how dishonest Microsoft will become as the years go by. Microsoft has been repeatedly disrespecting its users' choices when it comes down to marketing its Microsoft Edge browser.
