Why hanging on to your Windows 10 laptop could cost you more than you think
Security risks, slowdowns and compliance failures – here’s why it pays to upgrade and how to make the switch with the help of Harvey Norman’s Next Gen AI Experts.
The end is near! For Windows 10, that is.
Microsoft has officially announced that the end of support for Windows 10 is on October 14, 2025. After this date, devices running on Windows 10 will no longer receive free software updates, technical support or security patches.
It might be tempting to hold on to your current device, but doing so could lead to slowdowns, compatibility issues and even data breaches.
Now’s the time to upgrade – and find out how Harvey Norman is making it easier with up to $500 in savings on Intel Core Ultra laptops, plus trade-in bonuses and other limited-time laptop offers that reward you for moving on.
Why worry if Win10 computers will still continue to function?
Yes, your laptop will still function even after Windows 10 support ends – but it won’t be as secure. Your device will no longer receive security updates, leaving it increasingly vulnerable with every new threat released.
Without these regular updates, existing vulnerabilities found in Windows 10 will remain unpatched, making your device an easy target for malicious actors. Which just means you’ll be more susceptible to malware, ransomware and other cyber attacks.
Case in point: The WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 was estimated to have affected more than 300,000 computers across 150 countries. The attackers encrypted data and demanded payment in Bitcoin.
Microsoft had already released patches to fix the vulnerability, but many organisations either had not applied them or were using older systems that were past end-of-life and thus didn’t install the patches, resulting in the virus spreading uncontrollably.
I save money by holding on to my old laptop, right?
If your laptop was purchased before 2021, it may not qualify for the free upgrade as it likely has older components that are not able to support the new software features.
Staying on an outdated operating system could also mean you may face compatibility issues as applications and services drop support for Windows 10. Remember when games like Call of Duty: Warzone and Fortnite dropped support for Windows 7 and 8 back in 2020? More will likely follow suit.
Even if your software continues to work after October 2025, subsequent updates may lead to errors and compatibility issues which can slow your system down.
You may not even be able to use the latest antivirus software. Coupled with the fact that Microsoft will also no longer offer support for Windows 10 systems, you’ll likely be dealing with downtime and potential data loss on your own if any breaches occur.
Besides upgrading to Windows 11, consider leveling up with a new AI-powered laptop – with an exclusive trade-in bonus at Harvey Norman.
Will upgrading to Windows 11 make a big difference?
Yes, upgrading to Windows 11 will immediately improve three main areas:
Security – Beyond continued access to the latest security updates, Windows 11 also brings improved security features like secure boot and TPM 2.0, which help to protect your device at the hardware level.
Performance – Windows 11 introduces an optimised boot process, leading to boot times that can be up to 30 per cent faster compared to Windows 10 on compatible hardware. It also allows you to better allocate CPU resources, letting you choose which apps get more CPU time when multitasking.
Entertainment – Gamers will benefit from features like Auto HDR and DirectStorage, which help to significantly reduce loading times.
Should we invest in an AI laptop now?
Besides upgrading to Windows 11, recent tech advancements also make this a great time to upgrade your laptop.
Today’s AI-powered laptops feature longer battery life and smarter power consumption, allowing you to easily get through the work or school day.
Besides faster CPUs, Intel Core Ultra processors also come with dedicated graphics processing units (GPUs) which excel at handling tasks like rendering visuals or large AI workloads. They also have dedicated neural processing units (NPUs) for handling sustained AI tasks at lower power for greater efficiency. That means computing power you can rely on for gaming, multitasking, high-end creativity software, and smooth and reliable connectivity.
To support your transition to Windows 11, Harvey Norman has you covered.
The electronics powerhouse has appointed trained Next Gen AI Experts at their 12 stores islandwide. These full-time tech specialists are on hand to guide you through choosing the right AI laptop for your lifestyle, budget and needs.
Just walk into any Harvey Norman store and look for staff wearing black “Next Gen AI” polo t-shirts – no appointment needed.
You can also expect deals on a wide range of laptops from leading brands such as Acer, Asus, HP, Lenovo, LG, Microsoft and MSI. Additionally, Harvey Norman also offers*:
- An exclusive trade-in bonus
- Up to $500 off Intel Core Ultra laptops
- A free PC mover license with the purchase of an Intel Core Ultra laptop – Easily transfer data to your new laptop
- Free software installation service – Get up and running faster, hassle-free
AI laptops to match your style
Here’s a peek at some of the cutting-edge AI laptops you can find at Harvey Norman from leading brands such as Acer, Asus, Microsoft and Lenovo.
Steady workhorse: The Acer Aspire Go 14 AI PC brings Intel Core Ultra processing power matched with 16 GB of fast DDR5 RAM. For a limited time only, enjoy an exclusive price of $896 (UP $1,249)*.
Sleek performer: Also exclusive to Harvey Norman, the ultraportable Asus Zenbook 14 OLED features a stunning 3K OLED touchscreen display. It also has an integrated NPU AI engine in its Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, making multitasking a breeze. At $2,349.
Powerful and versatile: Dubbed “The most portable Pro” by Microsoft, the Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot+ PC goes from tablet to laptop mode in a flash. It has a 12-inch PixelSense touchscreen for an immersive viewing experience that’s matched with a Snapdragon X Plus processor for ultra-fast performance. At $1,199.
High performing multi-mode laptop: A versatile two-in-one laptop with OLED display, the Lenovo IdeaPad 5x is powered by the high-performing Snapdragon X Plus platform with AI-integrated NPU – an ideal balance of battery life and power. For a limited time only, enjoy a special price of $1,396 (UP $1,499).
Look out for the Next Gen AI laptops at all Harvey Norman stores, and get personalised advice from its in-store Next Gen AI Experts.
*Terms and conditions apply.
