Microsoft and Asus Face Criticism Over Forced Hardware Upgrades and E-Waste Concerns

Asus is now joining Microsoft’s push encouraging users with Windows 10 laptops that cannot upgrade to Windows 11 to buy new Copilot+ PCs.

These devices come with dedicated AI processors designed to enhance Windows 11’s AI features. Asus promotes this as a smooth and faster experience for users switching to the new OS.

However, this message raises serious environmental concerns. Millions of still-functional Windows 10 PCs are likely to be discarded because they don’t meet Windows 11’s stricter hardware requirements.

This adds to the growing problem of electronic waste and tech landfill, a problem critics say both Microsoft and Asus are ignoring by pushing new device sales aggressively.

Though Windows 10 support officially ends in October 2025, Microsoft is offering a paid extended support option for consumers for an additional year, a rare move that acknowledges concerns over pushing users to upgrade hardware prematurely. Unfortunately, it’s unclear if this extension will be longer or affordable enough for most users.

Another issue is that Asus, like Microsoft, is overselling the benefits of Copilot+ PCs. While these devices have some AI-powered improvements like enhanced Windows search, the overall AI experience is not yet as transformative as the marketing suggests. The “Copilot+” branding risks being more hype than substance right now.

In summary, while upgrading to Windows 11 on a new device may appeal to some, encouraging people to replace working laptops prematurely is both environmentally irresponsible and premature given the current state of AI features.

A more thoughtful approach to software support and hardware longevity is needed to reduce unnecessary electronic waste.