Microsoft's plan to end support for the Windows 10 operating system could lead to the disposal of about 240 million personal computers (PCs), potentially increasing the amount of waste in landfills, Reuters reports, citing Canalys Research, UNN writes.
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Waste electronics from these computers can weigh approximately 480 million kilograms, which is equivalent to 320 thousand cars.
While many PCs can remain operational for many years after OS support is discontinued, Canalys warned that demand for devices without security updates may be low.
Microsoft has announced a plan to provide security updates for Windows 10 devices until October 2028 at an undisclosed annual price.
If the pricing structure for Windows 10 extended support reflects past trends, the transition to new PCs may prove to be more profitable, increasing the number of older PCs being scrapped, Canalys believes.
Microsoft intends to end support for Windows 10 by October 2025. The next generation of the OS, which is expected to bring advanced artificial intelligence technologies to PCs, has the potential to stimulate the sluggish PC market.
Microsoft did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the environmental impact of recycling Windows 11 incompatible devices.
Hard drives used in personal computers and data storage servers are being recycled to collect materials for use in electric vehicle engines and even in renewable energy production.
"Turning end-of-life computers into magnets that power sustainable technologies such as electric vehicles and wind turbines will help meet the growing global demand for electricity," said Peter Afiuni, commercial director of Noveon Magnetics.
Battery recycling firm Redwood Materials has said that batteries can be recycled almost indefinitely to recover metals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper.