China accelerates phase-out of special Windows 10 version developed for public institutions

China has reportedly moved up the timeline for phasing out the version of Microsoft Windows 10 specifically developed for state institutions. The decision is seen as a new step in Beijing's policy of reducing dependence on foreign technology and shifting toward domestic alternatives in critical public systems.

According to a report by Bloomberg citing sources familiar with the matter, China's Ministry of State Security has instructed some state-linked organizations to remove the customized Windows 10 software from their computers. It was stated that this move has brought the previously planned decommissioning schedule for the operating system forward by several months.

Sources indicated that the decision is linked to data security concerns, but no details were shared regarding which potential security vulnerabilities Chinese officials are focusing on. The directive is also notable for coming weeks before a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

SPECIAL VERSION WAS DEVELOPED IN 2016

It was stated that the version being phased out was developed by C&M Information Technologies Co. (CMIT). CMIT was established in 2016 as a joint venture between Microsoft and the Chinese state-owned company China Electronics Technology Group Corp. The company's goal was to prepare a version of Windows 10 that met Beijing's security requirements.

According to the report, CMIT had planned to retire this software in February 2027 as part of the government's campaign to limit the use of foreign technology. However, the new directive is interpreted as a sign that the process is intended to be completed sooner.

Following the development, shares of Chinese software companies saw an increase. Shares of Hunan Kylinsec Technology Co. and Archermind Technology Co. reached the daily 20 percent limit, while shares of China National Software and Service Company rose by 10 percent.

A Microsoft spokesperson stated that the company is not aware of any security incident affecting this product, which continues to receive regular security updates, adding, "We have nothing else to share."

It was noted that the State Council Information Office of China did not respond to a request for comment, and that the request was directed to the Ministry of State Security as there is no publicly available contact information for the ministry. It was also reported that CMIT did not respond to a request for comment on the matter.

News Source: 12punto