Windows 8.1 system will reach its end of life (EOL) on January 10, 2023, and Microsoft will soon start warning and notifying Windows 8.1 operating system users. Users will receive pop-up reminders similar to those used before Windows 7 EOL, Microsoft said.
The pop-up information about the upcoming end of support for Windows 8.1 will include options such as “Be notified later,” “Be notified after January 10, 2023,” and “Learn more.” “Learn more” will direct users to a dedicated support article where Microsoft explains what EOL means and what users can do.
Microsoft said that it does not currently offer a free upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 11/Windows 10, which means users need to consider purchasing licenses for newer Windows versions. Microsoft also notes that those who are sticking with Windows 8.1 should consider buying a new PC that supports Windows 11 or Windows 10, as previous Windows 8.1 PCs were “designed with technology from about 10 years ago.”
Microsoft released Windows 8.1 on October 17, 2013, in an attempt to fix and improve the Windows 8 system. Windows 8.1 brings back the traditional Start menu button, as well as the option to boot directly to the desktop rather than a completely redesigned Start menu interface. Windows 8.1 also includes Internet Explorer 11 (rest in peace), improved integration with OneDrive, and other tweaks.
Interestingly, Windows 8.1 is the only major Windows update that Microsoft allows users to download from the Microsoft Store, similar to how Apple updates macOS.
On January 9, 2018, Windows 8.1 ended mainstream support. Unlike its predecessors, Windows 8.1 does not support the Extended Security Update Program, which means that commercial companies cannot pay for the update patch service provided by Microsoft after January 10, 2023.
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