China (china on 164news.com) Removes Microsoft’s Windows 10 from State Agencies
China is removing a government version of Microsoft’s Windows 10 from state agencies, earlier than planned. The Ministry of State Security recently instructed some state-linked entities to uninstall the customized software, according to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter. This move was driven by data security concerns.
The affected software, developed by a joint venture between Microsoft and China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CMIT), was due for discontinuation in February 2027 but will now be retired several months earlier. Microsoft claims it is unaware of any security incident related to this product, which continues to receive security updates.
This directive is part of China’s broader effort to reduce its dependence on foreign technology and enhance national cybersecurity. The timing coincides with the scheduled Trump-Xi meeting, raising notable points.
Chinese software makers have expressed optimism about increased demand for domestic alternatives following this news. Their shares experienced sharp rises, with Hunan Kylinsec Technology and Archermind Technology both reaching the 20% daily limit.
This move extends beyond software as China has also ordered central government agencies to replace foreign-branded PCs and bar Apple’s iPhones from certain sensitive entities, highlighting a wider substitution drive.