Microsoft has been compelled to provide free extended security updates for Windows 10 users in Europe following pressure from consumer advocacy groups.
The Original Requirement
By default, users needed to activate system backup to receive extended support, which requires OneDrive storage. This could easily exceed the free 5GB limit, forcing users to purchase additional storage.
European Exception
Thanks to pressure from the Euroconsumers group, European users are now exempt from this backup requirement and can access extended security updates without the OneDrive storage constraint.
Options for Other Regions
Users outside Europe still have two alternatives:
- Pay $30 for extended support
- Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points
This development highlights the growing influence of European consumer protection on major tech companies' policies.
Source: The Verge
