The Windows 11 Crisis

December 16, 2025

Note: This article is based on the analysis presented in the ColdFusion video “The Windows 11 Crisis”.

Windows 11 was launched with promises of a fresh design and improved productivity. However, as ColdFusion explores in his recent video, the operating system helps highlight a growing crisis in the PC ecosystem—one defined by planned obsolescence, forced adoption, and aggressive data gathering.

The Hardware Wall

One of the most controversial aspects of Windows 11 is its strict hardware compatibility list.

  • TPM 2.0 Requirement: Millions of perfectly capable secure PCs were instantly deemed “obsolete” because they lacked this specific security chip.
  • CPU Gating: Even powerful processors from just a few years ago (like many 7th Gen Intel chips) are unsupported.

This decision creates a massive e-waste problem. As support for Windows 10 winds down, we face a scenario where millions of functional computers will be discarded simply because they don’t meet an arbitrary cutoff, despite having the raw power to run the OS perfectly fine.

The “Subscription” Feel

While Windows itself isn’t technically a monthly subscription (yet), the service model is shifting.

  • Rapid EOL Cycles: Versions like 23H2 have seemingly short support windows (2 years for Home/Pro), forcing users onto a treadmill of constant upgrades.
  • OS as a Service Platform: The operating system feels less like a tool you own and more like a platform to serve you ads for OneDrive, Game Pass, and Microsoft 365.

Aggressive AI Integration

Microsoft is betting the farm on AI, and Windows 11 is the vehicle.

  • Copilot: It’s being integrated into every corner of the OS, often without a clear way to disable it completely.
  • User Data: Training AI requires data, and there are valid concerns about how deeply these “assistants” are monitoring user activity to provide their features. The push feels less about user benefit and more about shareholder value.

The User Experience

Beyond the existential issues, the day-to-day experience is suffering from “feature creep” and nagging.

  • Default Browser Wars: Trying to change your default browser from Edge is harder than it needs to be, with Windows constantly pleading with you to switch back.
  • Start Menu Ads: “Recommended” apps that are essentially advertisements clutter the interface.

Conclusion

The “Crisis” isn’t just about bugs or a new UI; it’s about a fundamental shift in the relationship between the user and their computer. Windows 11 signals a future where the user has less control, the hardware lifespan is artificially shortened, and the OS exists primarily to funnel users into an ecosystem of services.

For many, this is the tipping point to finally explore alternatives like Linux or macOS.

Tip: You can watch the full video by ColdFusion here: The Windows 11 Crisis