Tracking Windows 10
During its first month of availability, Windows 10's share of the desktop market raced to 5.21 percent, according to data tracking firm NetApplications. Windows 10 wasn't able to keep that same pace of growth during its second month of market, though it's still on the rise.
Specifically, Windows 10 added another 1.42 percentage points in September to claim a 6.63 percent share of the desktop market. That kind of drop off in growth may seem troubling at first, but it's worth noting that both Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 declined in the same period. Here's a look:
- Windows 8.1: 10.72 percent, down from 11.39 percent
- Windows 7: 56.53 percent, down from 57.67 percent
What about Windows XP? The legacy OS actually managed a small bit of growth, going from 12.14 percent in August to 12.21 percent in September. That's the second lowest it's been in a long, long time, but nevertheless, it's the OS that refuses go peacefully in the night.
Whatever, Windows XP isn't making a comeback, but will Windows 8.1? It's very doubtful, though it will be interesting to see how long it takes Windows 10 to overtake it. That will depend on a combination of factors, such as new PC sales, how many people downgrade to Windows 8.1 or 7 after giving Windows 10 a whirl, and what level of interest there is in Windows 10 going forward.
It's not surprising that Windows 10 didn't experience the same rate of growth in September as it did in August. Most of those who were eligible for a free upgrade and planned on doing so probably made the jump at the first opportunity, which helped Windows 10 get off to a fast start.
Going forward, we'll see how it does now that most new Windows 10 users are coming from new system purchases and paid licenses.
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