SUN IS SETTING ON GOOGLE CHROME & WINDOWS 7 & 8

[rednexsrus]

Hey ya'll

After 2/7/2023 to get any future google chrome updates, you will need Windows 10 or later.
Chrome seems to be the go to browser with AARP Rewards these days so there is no telling
what problems this will bring to the table.
We also will lose all support from Microsoft for Windows 7, so I guess we need to prepare for a possibly much rougher time going forward with this Rewards Program.
Our IT department has been floundering ever since this new version of rewards went live.
Lets hope AARP  doesn't require Windows 10 as the one and only operating system for this website.

I for one cannot afford a new computer system or costly software package  😫 😫 

This notice was recieved again 12/9/2022, updated on October 26th, 2022 to clarify timelines and include Windows 8 and again on October 27th to further clarify milestone release numbers by the Chrome Support Manager,

"Chrome 109 is the last version of Google Chrome that will support Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1.
Chrome 110 (tentatively scheduled for release on February 7th, 2023) is the first version of Chrome that requires Windows 10 or later.
You’ll need to ensure your device is running Windows 10 or later to continue receiving future Chrome releases. This matches Microsoft's end of support for Windows 7 ESU and Windows 8.1 extended support on January 10th, 2023.

Older versions of Chrome will continue to work, but there will be no further updates released for users on these operating systems.
If you are currently on Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1, we encourage you to move to a supported Windows version
to ensure you continue to receive the latest security updates and Chrome features"

Just Saying 

[EricC227821]

Never was a big fan of Chrome.  It always seemed bloated with useless bells and whistles that may sound impressive in an ad campaign, but really don't add much when it comes to day-to-day functionality.  Kinda like Cable T.V. bragging about hundreds of channels, but in the final analysis maybe a dozen have regularly watchable content that isn't available for free somewhere else.

Using Chrome has been unavoidable because it entered the market back when the cultural mood was Google = Good so people (even whole organizations) didn't do any decision making analysis beyond 'Google? - Get It!'.

Do a little research and there are browsers available that are more efficient, more secure and just as functional.  And yes they work just fine with AARP or this post wouldn't be happening.

[JoLo49]

Hi Lucy,

It appears Chrome is the preferred browser for AARP and Firefox no longer is compatible with AARP on older computers.  I wonder if AARP is trying to block users with older computers by claiming security issues.

[RussellP197074]

I am still using a 2012 version of MacBook Pro.  Just saying...  

... Best thing I ever did is switch to Apple products years ago. The equipment may be more expensive but over the years, I have ended up saving money not having to replace unsupported equipment.

[OneDayMatisyahu]

In regards to Windows 10/ 11...

If you do plan to upgrade/ buy a new pc or other device - try to get Windows 11 as...🤔

Microsoft will continue to support  Windows 10 release until  October 14, 2025.

During its announcements of the Windows 11 rollout, Microsoft reiterated that Windows 10 would remain supported until October 14, 2025.

    Windows 11 is the latest OS, but with the predominance of Windows 10 in the world it is likely Microsoft will extend the Oct 14, 2025 date further along; it has happened before with previous OS's. Some Windows 10 have the ability to properly upgrade to Windows 11 as an Update - for free on your device; some others 'do not' due to certain requirements.

Please plan accordingly; future proof planning.

AARP - Why (and How) to Upgrade Your PC Operating System to Windows 11

Click here      -----> How to Upgrade Your PC to Windows 11 (aarp.org)

😎  

[LesL269823]

I remember all the same concerns every few cycles, back when Windows 3.1 sunset to Windows 95, Then to XP, Then to Windows 7. 

So think about Chrome for a minute. Realistically there has to be a limit on how many operating systems it can run on and still be well maintained. Include not just Microsoft Operating systems, but Apple and Mobile Device Operating Systems.(phones/tablets and Chromebooks). After user issues, the next biggest vulnerabilities in our web connected devices is the Browser we use and then the operating system. This is why software updates are frequent and important.

These older Operating Systems will still function, unlike the cellular services using 3G. Most people just thought of that issue as phones, but we have integrated cellular into so many other things, such as vehicles like On-Star type systems and alarm systems for back up to land lines. This is not a conspiracy among the evil high tech companies to grab your money. 

As consumers, if we want to try to have secure devices, we need to plan replacement  every 3-5 yeas for that reason the same as business do. Seems considering the cost of about 50 cents a day would budget smartphone and computer replacement over the device life cycle. We are going to see this in an ever expanding number of products where we incorporate technology.

Is the day coming when we abandon a 10 year old car due to sunset software support?