The Looming PC Waste Crisis: Why Asus’s Copilot+ Push Feels…Off
Over 50 million Windows 10 PCs are currently incompatible with Windows 11, a figure that represents a ticking time bomb for both consumers and the environment. As October 2025 – the end of life for Windows 10 – rapidly approaches, manufacturers like Asus are aggressively promoting upgrades to new Windows 11, and specifically Copilot+ PCs, as the solution. But this push, while understandable from a business perspective, ignores a growing concern: are we being nudged towards a mountain of unnecessary electronic waste?
The Windows 11 Hardware Hurdle and the Rise of Planned Obsolescence
Microsoft’s stricter hardware requirements for Windows 11 left millions with perfectly functional laptops unable to upgrade. While security concerns underpin these requirements, the reality is a significant number of users are now facing a forced choice: upgrade to a new machine or run an unsupported operating system. This situation has fueled accusations of planned obsolescence, a practice where products are intentionally designed to become outdated or non-functional after a certain period.
Asus, echoing Microsoft’s messaging, frames the Copilot+ PC as the ideal next step. Their marketing highlights the benefits of the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) – a dedicated AI processor – promising a smoother, faster, and more secure experience. However, the current capabilities of Copilot+ PCs, while showing potential, haven’t yet fully justified the cost of a complete hardware replacement for many users. Features like improved Windows 11 search are incremental improvements, not revolutionary.
The Environmental Cost of Constant Upgrades
The core issue isn’t simply about money; it’s about sustainability. The relentless cycle of upgrades contributes significantly to the growing problem of e-waste. According to the United Nations’ Global E-waste Monitor 2020, a staggering 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste were generated globally in 2019, and that number is only increasing. Discarded computers represent a substantial portion of this waste, often containing hazardous materials that pose risks to both human health and the environment.
While Microsoft now offers paid extended security updates for Windows 10 – a welcome, if belated, response to environmental concerns – the cost and limited duration (currently one year) raise questions. Extending this support period, and making it more affordable, would be a far more responsible approach than aggressively pushing hardware upgrades.
Beyond Windows: Exploring Alternative Operating Systems
For those unwilling to upgrade or pay for extended support, alternatives exist. Linux distributions offer a viable path to continue using older hardware, providing a secure and customizable operating system without the stringent hardware requirements of Windows 11. While requiring a learning curve for some, Linux presents a powerful option for extending the lifespan of existing devices and reducing e-waste.
Copilot+ PCs: Potential vs. Reality and the Future of AI Integration
The promise of Copilot+ PCs lies in their ability to run AI tasks locally, enhancing performance and privacy. The NPU is a key component, enabling features like real-time translation and advanced image processing. However, the current implementation of these features feels limited. The much-hyped “Recall” feature, for example, has faced criticism regarding privacy and practical utility.
The true potential of Copilot+ PCs will only be realized as developers create more compelling AI-powered applications that leverage the NPU’s capabilities. We’re likely to see significant advancements in areas like content creation, productivity, and accessibility in the coming years. But for now, the benefits don’t fully justify the environmental and financial cost of replacing a perfectly functional Windows 10 laptop.
A Call for Responsible Tech Consumption
The situation highlights a critical need for a more sustainable approach to technology consumption. Manufacturers and operating system developers must prioritize software optimization and extended support options over planned obsolescence. Consumers, in turn, should carefully consider their needs and explore all available options before rushing to replace perfectly usable hardware. The future of computing shouldn’t be defined by a constant cycle of upgrades, but by a commitment to longevity, repairability, and environmental responsibility. What steps will you take to extend the life of your current devices and reduce your tech footprint?
