Microsoft just dropped a bombshell with its latest Windows update. The company officially removed thousands of legacy drivers, effectively cutting off support for countless older printers, sound cards, webcams, and other peripherals.

Windows users across the globe woke up to find their trusted devices completely non-functional after installing the new update. The move marks a decisive shift away from backward compatibility and sends a clear signal: Microsoft is racing toward a modernized driver ecosystem.

Reason: Security, performance, and AI-ready standards

The controversial decision comes as part of Microsoft’s push for security, performance, and AI-ready standards. A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed the update purges unsigned and obsolete drivers, many of which haven’t received updates in over a decade.

“We’re focused on future-facing functionality,” the spokesperson said. “Maintaining outdated drivers poses security and stability risks.”

However, users are flooding forums, Reddit threads, and support channels, frustrated by suddenly useless hardware. Long-time Windows loyalists, especially in corporate and educational environments, are now facing costly replacements or rollbacks.

Affected devices include:

• HP and Canon printers from early 2010s
• Creative Sound Blaster audio cards
• Logitech and Microsoft webcams
• USB to Serial adapters
• Legacy gaming controllers and custom peripherals

Tech repair shops report a surge in downgrade requests as businesses and individuals try to restore Windows 10 or early Windows 11 builds. The update caught many off guard, since Microsoft offered no advanced warning or public changelog before pushing it live.

Industry analysts believe Microsoft’s decision is driven by its pivot to AI-integrated services. New drivers are expected to support AI-accelerated workloads, dynamic plug-and-play features, and cloud-synced device management.

“This isn’t about punishing users—it’s about streamlining the future,” said analyst Jenna Morrison. “But the rollout was brutal.”

Microsoft postpones portable Xbox console!

Microsoft has decided to suspend its portable Xbox console project. The company will focus on software instead.

Users who rely on vintage or niche devices now face a dilemma: upgrade their hardware or switch operating systems. Linux communities have welcomed a small wave of new users seeking alternative support for older hardware.

Microsoft drivers list not published yet

Microsoft has yet to publish a full list of removed drivers or offer a rollback tool. For now, only registry hacks or image backups can restore functionality.

Stay tuned for updates as Microsoft addresses the backlash.