Goodbye, Windows 10: You promised a unified platform, and I went all-in — from Xbox One to Lumia, I saw the dream die

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Today holds a mix of joy and sadness for Windows, as Microsoft’s operating system, Windows 10, marks its tenth anniversary with a host of significant milestones, while its loyal users prepare for the approaching retirement in October. Opinions about different versions of their paid OS can vary widely, but Windows 10 is generally well-received and was particularly innovative in its presentation.

Apart from the questionable skip over Windows 9, a point of discussion regarding its cause, the advancement to Windows 10 seemed to represent a major stride rather than just a typical step in evolution.

On various devices, Windows 10 ensures a tailored user experience when it matters most. This versatile platform represents our most extensive development yet.

Terry Myerson, Microsoft

Microsoft is committed to delivering a consistent user experience across its diverse range of hardware, within the context of the “OneCore” platform. Essentially, this means that Windows applications can be scaled to suit various device types, extending beyond the conventional desktop setting.

I found it quite attractive, and its marketing strategy resonated with me, especially since I was unhappy with the tablet-focused approach of Windows 8 and its “Metro” Start menu concept. After taking some time to revert to the comforting familiarity of Windows 7, I eventually returned to a conventional desktop in Windows 8.1, but not before navigating the free upgrade route to Windows 10 and purchasing numerous Microsoft-branded devices for my home.

Indeed, I invested quite a bit in it. To put it simply, I gradually became fully committed, putting my faith and money into Microsoft’s concept. The expense was justified because I believed I was preparing myself for the future. In particular, I purchased an Xbox One console from the UK market, complete with a TV tuner add-on. I did this in anticipation of a promised DVR function that Microsoft said would be available in a later update. This feature was supposed to eliminate the need for me to use my TV provider’s set-top box altogether.

It’s not surprising now that we look back, but unfortunately, the DVR feature for Xbox One was never developed, leaving many eager users, including myself, disappointed. I was disheartened to have to readjust my entertainment setup after initially anticipating its release.

It has been verified that, due to reduced popularity, Windows Media Center will no longer be included in Windows 10 as of May 4, 2015.

In truth, TV was never my connection to Windows, not even after experimenting with Windows Media Center, a venture that, though innovative for its era, ultimately found itself resting in the “Microsoft Graveyard”.

I was merely attempting to make a smooth transition into the vast Microsoft universe by unifying my hardware and software components as much as feasible. To prepare for this change, I subscribed to Groove Music, switched from Gmail to Outlook for emails, backed up all my work on OneDrive (formerly SkyDrive), and was considering purchasing a Nokia Lumia 735, having reconsidered my decision about the Microsoft Lumia 640 and exchanging it days earlier. In essence, I am in the process of moving from iOS to Windows Phone.

Today’s younger generation may gaze upon the vibrant Lumia phones and ponder what became of those functional Live Tiles adorning their screens. It seems these underappreciated smartphones will eventually fade into historical record as simply “the phone that Trevor used in Grand Theft Auto V”.

Unaware were they that a deceased Windows 10 Mobile could have shaken up the market as a robust third competitor. However, the absence of support for my financial mobile application along with a few minor inconveniences eventually led me to switch to Android devices a couple of years down the line.

It’s thrilling to witness the arrival of Windows 10 and observe folks expressing their enthusiasm for Microsoft’s newest innovation. Indeed, this time around, the praise seems entirely justified.

Daniel Rubino, Windows Central

At this point, my Windows 10 computer was running smoothly without any problems at all, which kept my positive feelings towards Microsoft quite strong. In fact, it felt like a refreshing change, and even Daniel Rubino, my future boss, expressed the same sentiment in his initial Windows 10 review. However, the things surrounding it were starting to show signs of weakness and decline, much like a bunch of old satellites orbiting a healthy product, trying to tarnish its reputation by association.

In retrospect, acquiring the Microsoft Band 2 during that time period was undeniably my last impulsive buy – an acquisition I made without hesitation and one that served as an exceptional fitness partner, particularly in sync with my Lumia device. Over time, it even managed a somewhat satisfactory pairing with the monotonous Android phones I intermittently used, although it never quite lived up to the anticipation stirred by the Lumia 1020’s renowned camera, a device I yearned for but never had the opportunity to experience.

Over the last few years, I’ve transitioned most of my gadgets to Windows 11. Even my refurbished Surface Pro X, sporting the initial Microsoft SQ1 processor, found a spot in my collection after a whim. Initially running on Windows 10, it has since been upgraded, serving primarily as an enhanced web browser when I’m lounging around, filling downtime. Despite its minimalistic role, it continues to function, adding another device to the growing list of my Windows 11 devices.

These devices of mine – Xbox One, Microsoft Band, and Windows Phone – have become more like decorative ornaments than functional gadgets, gathering dust while attempting to connect to defunct Microsoft apps and services from the past. Yet, Windows 11 seems appealing as it stands as the globally recognized and widely supported operating system. However, I find myself drawn towards Linux through SteamOS and Fedora KDE, with a user interface that echoes the familiarity of Microsoft’s desktop design.

In simpler terms, after a decade of use, it might be time for Windows 10 users to consider changing things up. This could mean updating to Windows 11, continuing with extended security updates, or exploring other operating systems. For those who have a soft spot for Windows 10 and certain apps, I understand your attachment, but it’s been around for ten years now.

.. At least I never bought a Kinect.

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2025-07-29 21:10