Microsoft Faces Protests in France Over Windows 10 End of Support

Microsoft is facing growing backlash in France as protests emerge over its decision to end support for Windows 10. The move comes alongside broader discussions in the country about reducing reliance on proprietary software, including reported plans by the French government to shift toward Linux-based systems.

Protests target Windows 10 end-of-life decision

According to Neowin, several environmental and consumer advocacy groups have organized protests criticizing Microsoft’s timeline for ending support for Windows 10. Mainstream support officially ended in October 2025, with Extended Security Updates (ESU) available only as a paid or limited option.

Activists argue that this approach pressures users into upgrading to newer systems like Windows 11, often requiring newer hardware that many existing devices cannot support.

The protest movement has gained traction, with around 50,000 people signing a petition calling for changes to Microsoft’s policy.

Environmental groups raise e-waste concerns

Organizations involved in the protests include Non-Violent Action COP21, Alternatiba, Stop Planned Obsolescence, Que Choisir Ensemble, and Zero Waste France.

These groups accuse Microsoft of encouraging “planned obsolescence” by ending support for older systems. They argue that millions of still-functional PCs could become obsolete, leading to unnecessary electronic waste.

Environmental advocates highlight the resource cost of new hardware, noting that manufacturing a single laptop can require roughly 800 kilograms of raw materials.

Calls to extend support until 2030

Protesters are demanding that Microsoft extend support for Windows 10 until at least 2030. They claim the current ESU program does not go far enough to address environmental and consumer concerns.

Despite the pressure, Microsoft is unlikely to revise its plans. The company has consistently communicated its Windows 10 lifecycle timeline and continues to push users toward newer platforms.

Broader pressure on Microsoft

The protests add to a growing list of challenges for the tech giant. In parallel, Microsoft is also facing legal scrutiny in the UK over pricing practices related to Windows Server.

At the same time, France’s interest in Linux-based alternatives signals a wider shift in how governments evaluate long-term software dependencies, particularly in the context of sustainability and digital sovereignty.