French Group files Complaint Over Microsoft Windows 11 upgrade Ads, Citing Planned Obsolescence
PARIS – The French digital rights advocacy group HOP has filed a complaint with the Jury de Déontologie Publicitaire (Advertising ethics Jury) alleging that Microsoft’s advertising for windows 11 promotes premature hardware replacement and wasteful consumption. The complaint centers on claims that Microsoft’s marketing fails to adequately inform users of alternatives to upgrading, such as installing a free operating system or subscribing to Extended Security Updates.
HOP argues that by presenting computer replacement as the sole solution for compatibility with Windows 11, Microsoft is engaging in “marketing obsolescence” – deliberately encouraging the early disposal of functional devices. This practice, the group contends, contradicts principles of a circular economy promoted by organizations like the ARPP (Autorité de Régulation Professionnelle de la Publicité) and public authorities. According to data from the Ademe (French Surroundings and Energy Management Agency), over 90% of an average laptop’s carbon footprint is generated during its manufacturing process. HOP estimates that the end of free Windows 10 updates, combined with the advertising campaign, could lead to the disposal of up to 400 million computers globally, releasing over 70 million tonnes of CO2.
The complaint specifically calls for the immediate cessation of the current advertising campaign and demands that Microsoft disseminate corrective data on all affected devices detailing alternatives to computer replacement. HOP further highlighted the weight of raw materials needed to replace incompatible Windows 10 computers, equating it to 32,000 Eiffel Towers.
Beyond the advertising complaint, HOP is coordinating a coalition of 22 organizations – “Non Taxe windows” – advocating for Microsoft to maintain free security updates for Windows 10 at least until 2030. The coalition is also pushing for legal frameworks to regulate software obsolescence, including mandatory free software updates for a minimum of 15 years and required user information regarding migration to free operating systems.
