Microsoft has made a momentous decision to allow users of older systems to upgrade to Windows 10 for free, and this situation is directly related to the future of computers for hundreds of millions of users. Yes, that's it.
Microsoft's free strategy
Microsoft claims that for a full year after the release of Windows 10, genuine users of Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 can upgrade for free and receive continuous free updates. Such a strategy attracted great attention when it was announced in 2015. It breaks the traditional one-time payment or version-based upgrade sales model of the operating system, and actually transforms Windows into a long-term service.
The central goal of the free upgrade is to rapidly expand the number of users of the Windows 10 operating system. To this end, Microsoft hopes to use this move to resolve the poor acceptance of the Windows 8 series in the market and achieve the purpose of integrating the fragmented system environment. By giving users the convenience of completing the migration without paying fees, Microsoft can quickly deliver the new version to hundreds of millions of computers around the world to build a smooth path for the subsequent development of the software ecosystem and services.
Why we’re accelerating the retirement of legacy systems
Although Windows 7 is stable, its technical architecture is gradually becoming obsolete, and security updates have stopped completely in early 2020. The Windows 8 series has not gained widespread recognition due to its radical interface changes. Microsoft is eager to use Windows 10 to bridge the gap between desktop and mobile and build a unified platform. Old systems run the risk of becoming strategic baggage for the company.
Therefore, providing free upgrades is the most direct and effective way to encourage users to migrate. As far as ordinary users are concerned, when faced with a new system that is free, has stronger functions and can obtain continuous support, their willingness to upgrade will be greatly enhanced. For Microsoft, this can help it achieve the replacement of old and new ones in a short period of time, moving towards converging development and support resources on a single platform.
Actual impact on users
For individual users, the most direct benefit is saving money on purchasing a new system. The free upgrade means they can get a more modern interface, better security protections, and new features such as DirectX 12 without increasing their budget. At the same time, the continuous free updates also ensure that the system can obtain functional improvements and security patches over a long period of time.
Upgrading is not completely cost-free. Some older and outdated hardware or specialized professional software may encounter compatibility issues. Although Microsoft has carried out many aspects of work on compatibility issues, users must still evaluate their existing working environment before upgrading. However, looking at the overall situation, for the vast majority of home and office users who use mainstream software and hardware, the benefits of upgrading far outweigh the disadvantages.
What it means to developers
The unified Windows 10 platform has greatly simplified the work of developers. They can develop universal applications for computers, mobile phones, tablets and even Xbox devices, greatly reducing development and maintenance costs. The UWP (Universal Windows Platform) framework launched by Microsoft is precisely the embodiment of this strategy.
As the user base grows significantly and rapidly, developers need more courage to develop applications for Windows 10. A large and unified market is more attractive than several broken system versions. This will help Microsoft reverse its unfavorable situation in the mobile application ecosystem, thereby attracting more developers to return to its platform.
How to complete the upgrade process
Within the one-year window after the release of Windows 10, those users who qualify for free upgrades can use the system's own "Get Windows 10" app to make reservations and upgrades. The entire process is generally automated, with the system checking the computer for compatibility and then downloading the installation files. The upgrade method is called an "in-place upgrade", which can retain most of the files, settings and installed programs.
Once a user misses the free window period, he or she will have to pay for a license later. Microsoft also provides methods for creating installation media to allow users to perform clean installations. Regardless of the method, users must be advised to back up critical data before upgrading to prepare for unexpected events.
Looking at ecological construction in the long run
Microsoft, with its ultimate goal in mind, uses Windows 10 to build a "unified" ecosystem that spans all devices. Free upgrades have become a stepping stone for it to acquire a large number of desktop users. When users become accustomed to the new system and its services on their computers, they are more likely to try Microsoft phones, tablets, or other smart devices because the experience is consistent.
This strategy also means a change in Microsoft's business model, which is a change from the original way of simply selling software licenses to relying on cloud services, app store sharing, and enterprise services to obtain continuous revenue. The operating system itself serves as the gateway and is also the underlying platform, so its popularity becomes more important than direct sales revenue.
Do you think that Microsoft's strategy of "relying on free to gain market" will ultimately be able to successfully help it re-establish its leadership position in the mobile and cloud era? Welcome to share your opinions in the comment area.
