As the article notes, the increase seems to be driven mainly by users in Asia, where recycling and reusing older hardware is quite common. I wonder if third-party companies are offering extended security patches there, which could make affordable second-hand Windows 7 machines more appealing for people who just need them for browsing or light tasks. It would certainly make sense given recent fiascos and Microsoft’s current stance on AI, especially with generative AI being used to develop system-level code.
My laptop runs so much better now with Mint after getting rid of windows
The difference in fan speed is always impressive
Yeah it’s nice not having my laptop get scalding hot just during the fifteen minute long start up as well. I’m loving the efficiency