It's the final stretch for Microsoft's offer that lets us install a copy of Windows 10 on our computers for free. Needless to say, the Redmond giant will throw everything it has left on the table in the coming weeks to add more users to the new platform, essentially without caring about the annoyance or irritation it causes. The latest tactic: turning the offer notice into a full-screen message.
While we think about countdowns and put a Europe video in the background (?), Microsoft's decision was exactly what we've been imagining and anticipating for months: take off the gloves, set courtesy aside, and try to increase Windows 10's user base as much as possible before free downloads come to an end on July 29. Even Redmond's staunchest defenders have criticized its tactics, which on several occasions adopted malware-like behavior, with processes running automatically despite attempts to keep them closed, hidden advertising in security updates, and even turning the close button into the "confirmation button". What's next on the list?
That's right: now the notification to install Windows 10 will be full screen. Microsoft explains that the message will not appear if different conditions are detected, such as lack of compatibility on the computer, a previous uninstallation of Windows 10, a failed Windows 10 installation that performed a "rollback", notifications hidden in the "Get Windows 10" app, or the complete disabling of the update through registry strings (usually modified by programs like GWX Control Panel).
The new notification offers a total of four options:
- Update now
- Remind later
- Show the notification three more times
- No more alerts
The update messages have ruined live weather reports and Twitch streaming sessions, but not even those extreme situations intimidated Microsoft, which only limited itself to modifying its strategy again and again in response to each new wave of complaints. Windows 10 was installed on more than 300 million computers and became the number one operating system among Steam users, yet statistics agencies show it struggling to surpass 20 percent of the market. We're still not convinced that Microsoft intends to end the offer on July 29, and it's a good time to remember that after this, those interested in the operating system will have to pay a minimum of 135 euros for the Home edition. One thing is certain: it will be a relief to leave the whole matter behind, one way or another.
