China has reportedly ordered some state-linked agencies to uninstall Microsoft Windows 10 from their computers as Beijing accelerates efforts to reduce dependence on US technology.
The Chinese Ministry of State Security has instructed certain state-linked entities to remove a customised version of Windows 10, citing data security concerns. The affected version was developed by C&M Information Technologies (CMIT), a joint venture between Microsoft and state-owned China Electronics Technology Group.
The customised Windows system was originally scheduled to be retired in February 2027, but the latest directive brings the phase-out forward by several months. Chinese agencies are expected to move towards domestic, Linux-based operating systems, including Kylin OS and Unity OS.
Microsoft said it was not aware of any security incident affecting the customised product and noted that it continues to receive regular security updates.
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The move is part of China’s broader push for technology self-reliance, particularly in sensitive government and state-owned sectors. Beijing has been working for years to replace foreign hardware and software with domestic alternatives.
Despite the government shift, Windows remains dominant among Chinese consumers, accounting for 87.64% of desktop web traffic in July 2026, according to StatCounter data cited by India Today.
