Back Market Challenges Planned Obsolescence with £99 "Obsolete Computer" Drop

Sep. 16, 2025

In less than a month, on October 14, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, rendering up to 400 million perfectly functional computers obsolete overnight. Microsoft will stop providing free software updates, technical support and security patches for its operating system. In other words, machines that still work will be forced into retirement simply because they don’t meet the hardware requirements of Windows 11 (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, newer processors).

In response to this imminent wave of e-waste, today Back Market, the world’s largest marketplace for refurbished tech, has launched the £99 ‘Obsolete Computer’ box: a refurbished laptop, preconfigured and ready to use, designed to bypass Microsoft’s forced update. The initiative is available in France, Germany, Spain and the UK and aims to highlight a simple truth - there is a more sustainable, affordable way forward.

Each refurbished PC is prepared to function like any other, without risk or interruption, giving consumers an accessible and responsible alternative to unnecessary disposal. For those who want to adapt their existing machines, Back Market will also provide tutorials, empowering people to extend the lifespan of their own laptops at home.

Speaking on the launch, Amandine Durr, Chief Product Officer at Back Market, said:

“Condemning hundreds of millions of still perfectly functional PCs because of a simple software update is absurd. With this £99 box, Back Market shows that it is possible to extend the lifespan of devices, guarantee digital inclusion and avoid unnecessary electronic waste.”

 

The launch comes amid growing concern about the scale of waste tied to Microsoft’s decision. Windows currently powers 1.4 billion computers worldwide. Of these, between 40% and 55% cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to incompatible components, meaning as many as 400 million working devices risk being discarded. This not only creates a massive wave of avoidable e-waste but also risks deepening digital exclusion for millions of households.

Back Market’s “Obsolete Computer” drop stands as a bold call to action, reaffirming the company’s mission to combat planned obsolescence, extend the lifespan of electronics and offer consumers practical, affordable solutions.