In March,Microsoft announcedthat it would send Windows 7 users an on-screen “courtesy reminder” about the incoming end of support of the operating system. Now a few months later, on Tuesday, July 22, the “reminder” has appeared on Digital Trends’ computer screens, suggesting the process of phasing out Windows 7 is now underway.

At the time of publication, it is not certain if all Windows 7 users are currently seeing the “reminder,” but it was confirmed to have appeared on at least one of Digital Trends’ PCs. Aslast explained by Microsoft, the “reminder” doesn’t specifically mention updating to Windows 10. Instead, clicking on the “Learn More” area of the notificationdirects back to a dedicated websitededicated to the July 13, 2025 end of support for Windows 7.

Windows 7 users also have the choice of clicking “Do not remind me again,” to remove the notification from their systems. However, Microsoft did mention that the notification could appear on systems “a handful of times” throughout this year.

A routine Windows 7 update, dubbedKB4493132from March, downloaded through Windows Update had initially introduced the “reminder.” A sample reminder notification similar to what Digital Trends experienced can be seen below.

Microsoft is no stranger to these notifications, as it has previouslysent out similar popups to Windows XP userswhen the operating system was being phased out. It also used similar — and lesser proactive —notifications when Windows 10 was first introduced. Unfortunately, the company faced heavy criticism from the public in the months thereafter.

Despite Windows 7 being 10 years old, theoperating system remains popularand was only surpassed in marks share by Windows 10 in January. As a result, Microsoft will still provide paid extended Windows 7 security updates for businesses and enterprises past June 06, 2025.  But, general consumers are not included. This means you will need to out and purchase a new Windows laptop or pay for a new Windows 10 license after that date in order to keep your PC safe from viruses and other security threats.

There are currentlygreat options for new Windows 10 laptops and desktops, from all the major brands. And, if you’re not happy with how Windows 10 feels,there are ways to change itso it looks more like Windows 7.