A leaked Intel document reveals that the new WiFi 7 will not be supported by Windows 10. Only Windows 11, Linux and ChromeOS appear on the compatibility list for a new WiFi module from Intel. Thus, it seems to be increasingly unappealing for Windows 10 users to stick to the older OS.
The speed difference between WiFi 6 and 7 is significant: while the current variant supports 9.6 Gbps, the successor can handle up to 46 Gbps. In addition, it should be a lot more reliable in terms of connectivity thanks to steps taken to avoid interference and the deployment of multiple frequencies simultaneously: 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz.
The Intel document appeared on social media platform X and concerns the Intel Wi-Fi 7 BE200/BE202.
No inherent limitation
Basically, there seems to be no inherent limitation within Windows 10 that would stop a driver update. With that, it seems that Wi-Fi 7 is being used as a tool by Microsoft to make the move to Windows 11 more attractive. Windows 10 reaches its end-of-life date on Oct. 14, 2025, more than a decade after the operating system was launched.
One problem for many users will be that plenty of older hardware cannot run Windows 11 natively. For example, if the motherboard does not have a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0, it is not possible to install Windows 11 out-of-the-box. This applies to countless desktops located in offices worldwide. Still, there are registry edits users can make to still force the upgrade, but Microsoft’s choice to limit WiFi 7 capabilities will at least serve to be a subtle hint to inexperienced users to purchase a new system.
Also read: Microsoft puts backup settings in standalone app in Windows 10