- We questioned our readers about their reflections on the transition to a new operating system
- Most of our readers feel fairly prepared
- Some believe that upgrading is just a way for Microsoft to earn money
The installation of a new operating system (OS) is not as simple as possible and often requires specific features or knowledge of the device – so we asked Techradar Readers how confident they were to upgrade and found that even our informed fans have reservations.
We previously found a shocking number of people do not even know which version of Windows they have, and many have unfounded confidence to meet the requirements for upgrades. More exclusive research shows that many of our readers are always confident to upgrading their operating system, but some may need a little advice.
Almost two thirds of our readers are ready to take up the challenge, with more than a third (38%) saying; “Bring it – I’m quite informed in technology”. A little more (41%) think it could be done, but they could “probably understand it with some tips”.
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About 15% said they had found the idea of an intimidating switch, and an additional 6% say they “prefer not to break things” – which is good, but like the end of the end of life (which will come on October 14, 2025) is getting closer, those that are not prepared may require a little push.
Despite this, the overall feeling is quite positive, with 37% impatiently waiting for new features and improvements, although 9% express frustrations with endless updates to follow – and many content with the system they have at the moment.
The transition of the operating system, however, represents an opportunity to buy or sell equipment, 37% having already been upgraded to a new laptop / computer, and 21% admitting having consulted new devices offered.
This is perhaps exactly what Microsoft counts on, with a respondent saying that they believe that the end of life of the operating system “is just a way for Microsoft to try to earn money, because they know that previous dare work very well and that it is the planned obsolescence.”
However, an overwhelming majority, the respondents said that they would stay with Windows (72%), and only 3% reporting that they would go to another like Mac, Linux or Chrome – so even those who think that upgrade is a problem seems to be faithful to Windows.
