As the deadline for Microsoft’s regular support for Windows 10 approaches, IT leaders are facing critical decisions. With less than three months until October 14, 2023, companies must choose between migrating to Windows 11, paying for extended security updates, or risking security vulnerabilities. The urgency is palpable, as organizations navigate the complexities of hardware requirements and application compatibility.

At BSH Home Appliances, a European home appliance manufacturer, the situation is particularly pressing. The company still has 6,000 Windows 10 computers that have not yet transitioned to Windows 11. According to Serhiy Mamus, global head of workplace services, this is all part of a strategic plan. “We have 43,000 laptops and desktops, and all but 2,500 have been migrated,” he states. By the October deadline, all but 500 of the remaining office PCs will be upgraded or replaced. The others will remain on Windows 10, utilizing Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program due to hardware limitations and mission-critical applications.

Similar challenges are faced by Jeff Martinson, 2nd Vice President of infrastructure and operations at Ameritas. His team began migrating 3,100 Windows 10 instances back in 2023, with the project currently at 93% completion. “Supportability and security were key factors,” he notes, highlighting that older hardware lacking the necessary processing power and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 has been a significant obstacle.

The transition to Windows 11 is creating a last-minute scramble for many IT departments. Stefan Kinnestrand, Vice President of Product Marketing at Microsoft, points out that many organizations are balancing various IT initiatives while waiting for the right moment in their device lifecycle. This caution has resulted in slower adoption of Windows 11, which was launched nearly four years ago. Paddy Harrington, a senior analyst at Forrester, emphasizes that there has been no compelling business reason for many to upgrade, especially compared to the previous transition from Windows 7 to Windows 10.

Delays in migration can be attributed to the perceived lack of return on investment associated with upgrading. David Mayer, CEO of IT services firm Endpoint Technology Partners, explains that the performance and security improvements do not justify the costs of new hardware and the disruption of migration. Many organizations are also hesitant to divert critical resources from other projects with potentially greater business benefits.

Current adoption rates reflect a mixed landscape. Kinnestrand indicates that there is “strong momentum” with Windows 11, while Forrester’s findings suggest that one-third of organizations are completed, another third are rushing to meet the deadline, and the final third are waiting for compatible hardware. For Endpoint Technology Partners, the split is closer to 50/50, with half of their clients finished and the other half at various stages.

Windows 11 does offer enticing features for IT administrators. Enhanced configuration controls, improved app control functions, and a more efficient resource management system are among the advantages highlighted by industry analysts. However, the migration is not without challenges. Many organizations are discovering that machines meeting Microsoft’s minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11 may not perform optimally. Mayer points out that running Windows 11 on machines with only 8GB of RAM can lead to a subpar user experience.

Organizations must carefully evaluate their hardware before proceeding with migration. As Lucas Ebron, a solutions advisor at Portland Internetworks, recommends, organizations should aim for at least 16GB of RAM, an Intel i7 or higher CPU, and a solid-state drive (SSD) for optimal performance. However, budget constraints and supply chain issues could hinder the ability of some clients to complete necessary upgrades before the deadline.

For those machines that remain on Windows 10 beyond the support deadline, the cost of extended security updates is a critical consideration. At $61 per machine initially, this fee escalates to $122 in 2026 and $244 in 2027. Harrington notes that while modern security tools can mitigate some risks, most organizations will prefer to invest in extended support to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

As organizations navigate these challenges, the importance of application compatibility cannot be overlooked. While Microsoft claims that 99.7% of Windows applications are compatible with Windows 11, many legacy or custom applications are not. Ebron highlights the difficulty some organizations experience with noncompliant applications, which often require upgrades or new licensing. This situation can lead to a “massive long tail of technical debt” that will take years to resolve.

Despite these hurdles, some organizations like BSH have found success in their migration efforts. Mamus emphasizes the importance of thorough testing to avoid compatibility issues. His team started the migration process with a “test factory” that assessed all system images for compatibility with Windows 11, discovering only a few applications that required adjustments.

Looking ahead, organizations have several options for managing their migration strategies. Machines that do not require internet connectivity may be able to forgo extended support if they remain offline. Additionally, virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solutions can allow organizations to run noncompliant applications without upgrading hardware.

Ultimately, the transition to Windows 11 can be successful with the right planning and preparation. As Kinnestrand suggests, organizations that have proactively addressed potential issues report smooth migrations. Mamus reflects on his experience, stating, “This was one of the easiest migrations I’ve seen.”

With the deadline fast approaching, many IT leaders are now racing against the clock to ensure their organizations are ready for the next phase of Windows support. As October 14, 2023 draws near, it is clear that early planning and strategic decision-making will be essential for a seamless transition to Windows 11.

Air New Zealand is set to significantly expand the Koru Lounge located at Auckland Airport, nearly doubling its size and introducing an exclusive area for premium guests. This transformation aims to enhance the overall experience for travelers, accommodating increasing passenger numbers and evolving customer expectations.

The expansion is part of a broader strategy to improve facilities and services across the airline’s network. According to Air New Zealand, the redesigned Koru Lounge will feature modern amenities and a more spacious layout, ensuring a comfortable environment for all visitors. The new area will cater specifically to elite members and frequent flyers, offering additional privacy and premium services.

Expansion Details and Timeline

The Koru Lounge is expected to grow from its current size of approximately 1,200 square meters to around 2,200 square meters. This substantial increase will allow for more seating, relaxation zones, and dining options, creating a more inviting atmosphere for guests. The renovation is scheduled to begin in early 2024, with a planned completion date later that year.

Air New Zealand’s Chief Customer Officer, Leanne Geraghty, emphasized the airline’s commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction. “We understand that our lounges play a crucial role in the travel experience, and this expansion reflects our dedication to providing exceptional service and comfort,” she stated.

The new design will also incorporate sustainable practices, aligning with the airline’s environmental goals. Features such as energy-efficient lighting and eco-friendly materials will be central to the lounge’s redesign, demonstrating Air New Zealand’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Enhancing the Passenger Experience

In addition to the physical expansion, the new Koru Lounge will introduce upgraded technology and amenities. Guests can look forward to improved connectivity options, interactive displays, and a wider selection of food and beverage offerings. The lounge will continue to provide a tranquil retreat away from the bustling airport environment, catering to both leisure and business travelers.

With this overhaul, Air New Zealand aims to solidify its position as a leader in customer service within the aviation industry. The airline’s investment in the Koru Lounge underlines its recognition of the importance of pre-flight experiences in enhancing overall travel satisfaction.

As traveler numbers continue to rise, this expansion not only meets current demands but also prepares for future growth. Air New Zealand’s initiative reflects a broader trend in the airline industry, where premium lounges are increasingly seen as essential components of customer service.

This ambitious project is expected to draw positive feedback from frequent travelers and casual airport visitors alike, setting a new standard for lounge experiences in the region. As the renovation progresses, further details regarding specific features and offerings will be announced, promising an exciting new chapter for the Koru Lounge and its patrons.

Air New Zealand has announced an extensive renovation of its Koru Lounge at Auckland Airport, significantly enhancing the space to better serve its passengers. The overhaul, which is set to be completed in early 2024, will nearly double the lounge’s size and introduce a new exclusive area designed for premium guests. This initiative represents a substantial investment of $20 million into improving customer experience.

The revamped Koru Lounge will feature modern amenities and an updated design that prioritizes comfort and accessibility. The expansion aims to cater to the growing number of travelers using Auckland Airport, addressing both leisure and business needs. Passengers can expect enhanced seating options, improved food and beverage offerings, and designated quiet areas for relaxation.

New Features and Enhanced Experience

With the expansion, the Koru Lounge is set to offer a variety of new features. A key highlight will be the exclusive area, which will provide additional privacy and comfort for premium guests. This space will include upgraded lounge seating, personalized service, and a selection of premium food and beverages.

The renovation plans also emphasize sustainability. Air New Zealand aims to incorporate eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems throughout the lounge. This commitment aligns with the airline’s broader sustainability goals, focusing on reducing its environmental footprint while enhancing passenger services.

A spokesperson for Air New Zealand highlighted that the renovation reflects the airline’s dedication to providing a world-class experience. “We understand that our customers value comfort and convenience, especially during their travels. This expansion will allow us to meet and exceed those expectations,” the spokesperson stated.

Impact on Travelers and Future Plans

The enhanced Koru Lounge is expected to accommodate a greater number of travelers, alleviating congestion during peak travel times. This change is particularly important as Auckland Airport continues to see increasing passenger volumes. The redesign will make the lounge more inviting, benefiting both frequent flyers and occasional travelers.

Looking ahead, Air New Zealand plans to implement additional upgrades across its network of lounges in the coming years. By investing in passenger experience, the airline aims to strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive market.

Overall, the transformation of the Koru Lounge at Auckland Airport represents a significant step towards enhancing travel comfort and convenience, aligning with Air New Zealand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainability.

The Morning Edition of News Fix on 28 July 2025, presented by Newstalk ZB, provides a comprehensive overview of significant developments in news, politics, business, entertainment, and sports. This edition highlights critical events impacting both national and international landscapes.

Key Business Updates

Major financial markets experienced fluctuations today as investors reacted to the announcements from the Global Business Summit held in New Zealand. The summit, which attracts leaders from around the world, focuses on sustainable economic growth and innovation.

According to reports from the summit, key speakers emphasized the importance of adapting business strategies to combat climate change. $3.4 trillion is projected to be invested in green technologies by 2030, aiming to reduce global emissions significantly.

Political Developments and Global Events

In political news, the International Olympic Committee announced new measures to enhance athlete safety at the upcoming Games. These initiatives come in response to increasing concerns regarding health protocols and environmental sustainability. The committee plans to invest $500 million in infrastructure improvements to meet these standards.

Additionally, the United Nations Climate Conference will take place later this year, where world leaders are expected to negotiate binding agreements on emissions. Officials from the World Health Organization will also participate, advocating for health strategies that address climate-related health risks.

In entertainment, the highly anticipated film festival in Auckland has drawn attention for its diverse lineup of films addressing social issues. This year’s theme, “Voices of Change,” highlights stories from marginalized communities, with screenings set to begin on August 15, 2025.

As the week progresses, these stories will continue to evolve, impacting various sectors on both local and international scales. For more updates, stay tuned to News Fix for the latest developments.