For Windows 10 users who aspire to upgrade to Windows 11 but find that their devices fall short of the necessary hardware specifications, Microsoft is offering a solution. The company will assist these users in acquiring new devices via device recycling or trade-in schemes. It's important to note that free security updates for Windows 10 will cease on October 14, 2025. However, users have the option to prolong security maintenance for certain devices through three distinct approaches.

Recently, Microsoft has enhanced the upgrade page by incorporating a new option: 'Learn about trading in or recycling your PC.' This option provides a direct link to an online device trade-in service page. The introduction of this recycling and trade-in mechanism is a strategic move in anticipation of the complete discontinuation of support for Windows 10 in 2026. At that juncture, devices that are incompatible with Windows 11 will be recommended for retirement, recycling, or replacement.

Officially, Microsoft discourages users from attempting to circumvent hardware restrictions to install the new system. In the United States, Teladvance is the entity responsible for executing this service. Conversely, in other regions, different partners may be entrusted with this task.