Microsoft Faces Fresh China Blow Over Windows

Microsoft is facing another setback in China after authorities reportedly accelerated plans to remove a customized version of Windows 10 from some state-linked organizations. The move reinforces Beijing's push to replace foreign technology with domestic alternatives and raises questions over how far that policy could eventually extend into Microsoft's more valuable cloud and AI businesses.

China's Ministry of State Security recently told some state-linked entities to uninstall the customized Windows 10 software, according to Bloomberg. The product, developed by Microsoft's joint venture C&M Information Technologies, had originally been scheduled for retirement in February 2027.

The accelerated timeline reportedly reflects data-security concerns, although authorities have not detailed specific vulnerabilities. Microsoft said it is 'not aware of a security incident affecting this product,' which continues to receive regular security updates.