The Windows 8 era is gradually winding down. If devices do not meet the technical requirements to run a more current release of Windows, Microsoft recommends replacing the device with one that supports Windows 11.
This news follows the company confirming that it will end security patches for Microsoft 365 on Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 devices, as well as blocking any new installations of the Office apps on old systems. Windows 8 was launched late in 2012, with the 8.1 major update following one year later, meaning the OS will have run for around a decade before it gets axed entirely.
Microsoft decided to end support for the Windows 8.1 version due to its user interface flaws. In addition, the tech giant wants to focus more time on providing a more stable environment for its users with Windows 10 and 11. Although it provided a better user experience, Windows 8.1 did not fully resolve most UI issues. As such, Microsoft required a newer version to address its user interface limitations and attract users who had previously abandoned Windows for alternative operating systems.