After the tragic end of Windows XP, Microsoft chose to end Windows 7 and Windows 8 as well. The decision came 15 months after the launch of Windows 10.
“End of sales refers to the date when a particular version of Windows is no longer shipped to retailers or Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Examples of OEMS are Dell and Toshiba—PC manufacturers who often pre-install Windows software.”, Microsoft explained.
Going down the memory lane, Microsoft launched Windows 7 back in 2009 and Windows 8 in 2012. For comparison Windows XP lasted for 13 years, beginning with its launch back in 2001.
Despite this ‘sad’ news Microsoft will continue to offer support for the two models until January 2020 and 2023 (for Windows 8). However, this will give the chance for a Windows 10 boost; even now when I look for a laptop, most of those with Windows licence come pre-packed with Windows 10.
And since Apple announced some rather pricey new MacBooks Pro, I wouldn’t be surprised if many of us will choose Microsoft for their next computer.
Terry Myerson, VP of Microsoft’s Windows and Devices Group talked in a post on the official blog of the company about the technology abilities that Windows 7 cannot overcome: “Windows 7 was designed nearly 10 years ago before any x86/x64 SOCs existed. For Windows 7 to run on any modern silicon, device drivers and firmware need to emulate Windows 7’s expectations for interrupt processing, bus support, and power states- which is challenging for WiFi, graphics, security, and more. As partners make customizations to legacy device drivers, services, and firmware settings, customers are likely to see regressions with Windows 7 ongoing servicing.”
The only problem with Windows 10 is its privacy issues. Some of the concerns are included in the general settings: “Send Microsoft info about how I write to help us improve typing and writing in the future.”, “Turn of SmarScreen Filter to check Web content that Windows Store apps use.”; also, Cortana service in the W10 will know you even better than you know yourself. For a most productive experience, the service wants to record your voice, location, writing, contacts and even calendar events. Moreover, the “getting to know you” feature is so vague that if might record everything you type/see/hear.
It is our choice if we accept Microsoft’s terms or switch to a different OS.
