"Microsoft had wanted everyone to turn on Windows Backup to get the extra year of security updates, but thanks to pressure from the Euroconsumers group this is now changing in the European Economic Area. The consumer advocacy group has been asking Microsoft to do more for those still running Windows 10 across Europe, and it has successfully convinced the software giant to offer the extended security updates free without the requirement of enabling Windows Backup."
"Windows Backup uses OneDrive, which could lead consumers to go above the 5GB of free storage by having to back up documents and settings. It's a catch that benefits Microsoft, as it can then sell Windows 10 users additional OneDrive storage space. "We are pleased to learn that Microsoft will provide a no-cost Extended Security Updates (ESU) option for Windows 10 consumer users in the European Economic Area (EEA)," says the Euroconsumers group in a letter this week. "We are also glad this option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards.""
"An unnamed Microsoft spokesperson confirmed the changes to Windows Central, noting that it's "making updates to the enrollment process to ensure it meets local expectations and delivers a secure, streamlined experience." These changes are only being made in the European Economic Area though, so everywhere else will still need to either enable Windows Backup or pay $30 for the year or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points."
Windows 10 reaches end of support on October 14, and Microsoft will offer no-cost Extended Security Updates (ESU) for consumer users in the European Economic Area without requiring Windows Backup. Euroconsumers pressured Microsoft to remove the backup and Microsoft Rewards requirements for EEA consumers. Windows Backup uses OneDrive and could push users above the 5 GB free tier, potentially prompting paid storage purchases. Outside the EEA, consumers must enable Windows Backup or pay $30 per year or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points to enroll in ESU. Consumer ESU coverage will continue only until October 13, 2026.
Read at The Verge
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