Windows 11 Overtakes Windows 10 Worldwide
With Microsoft preparing to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, the global transition to Windows 11 is gaining momentum. According to new data from Statcounter, July marked the first time Windows 11 was used on more desktop devices than Windows 10 globally. Windows 11 now holds a 52% market share, compared to Windows 10’s 45%.
However, the trend hasn’t caught on everywhere. In Germany, Windows 10 remains dominant, with over 57% of users still relying on it. Windows 11 usage has actually declined in the country to just 40%, despite narrowing the gap earlier this year. In contrast, users in the U.S., the U.K., and Canada have largely moved on, with Windows 11 surpassing its predecessor in those regions. The data is based on web access patterns, providing a reliable snapshot of usage.
End of Support Spurs Upgrade Push
The upcoming October 14 deadline for Windows 10 support is widely seen as the key driver behind the spike in Windows 11 adoption. Microsoft has made it clear that, after that date, regular support for Windows 10 will cease. Still, as in previous transitions, certain users — particularly enterprise customers — will have options to extend support.
Businesses will be able to purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for up to three additional years. And, for the first time, Microsoft will also offer a paid ESU plan to individual users. Consumers who wish to continue receiving security patches must opt in to the program, which grants one more year of updates.
Germany Lags Behind – Raising Security Concerns
In Germany, the slower adoption of Windows 11 is raising red flags. A notable example is Berlin’s public administration, which is reportedly behind schedule in transitioning to the newer OS. Once support for Windows 10 ends, the systems will remain functional, but they’ll no longer be protected from emerging security threats.
Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software to launch ransomware, spyware, and other attacks. Experts caution that unsupported systems should either be completely isolated from networks or replaced with updated machines to reduce risks.
Microsoft Rolls Out New Windows 11 Update
Alongside the push for users to switch to Windows 11, Microsoft is also improving the operating system through regular updates. On the most recent Patch Tuesday, the company began distributing a feature update for Windows 11 version 24H2, bringing a total of seven new features aimed at enhancing usability and functionality.
Taskbar Gets More Customization Options
One of the update’s standout features is the ability to resize taskbar icons. Users can now opt for smaller icons by navigating to Settings → Personalization → Taskbar. These icons can be displayed permanently or only when the taskbar is full. While icon size changes, the taskbar height remains the same.
PC-to-PC Migration Tool Simplifies the Upgrade
To help users move from Windows 10 to Windows 11, Microsoft introduced a new “PC-to-PC migration” feature. Integrated into the Windows Backup app, the tool allows users to choose the “Transfer information to a new PC” option. This prepares all files and settings for migration to a Windows 11 machine.
If both systems are connected to the same network, the assistant facilitates a direct data transfer, making the switch easier and more seamless.
Compress Images Before Sharing
Another useful addition is the ability to compress images directly from the share menu. Without opening a separate app, users can now choose to send images in their original form or apply low, medium, or high compression — saving time and storage.
Microsoft 365 Copilot Now in Context Menu
Users with Copilot+ PCs — which feature high-performance Neural Processing Units (NPUs) — now have access to Microsoft 365 Copilot directly from the right-click context menu. Through a new feature called “Click to Do,” users can analyze screen content using AI and perform additional tasks based on intelligent suggestions.
The Road Ahead
As Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11 and prepares for Windows 10’s retirement, users globally are encouraged to make the switch. With new tools like migration assistants, improved taskbar customization, and integrated AI features, Windows 11 is positioning itself as the future of Microsoft’s desktop ecosystem. However, the pace of transition remains uneven — and for regions lagging behind, the time to act is now.