Windows 10 May Punt You From Playing Pirated Games
Have you read through the End User License Agreement (EULA) for Windows 10? If not, you might be in for a surprise if Microsoft decides to follow through terms outlined in Section 7b, which warns that Windows 10 can automatically check for and block access to illegal software, including counterfeit games, and unauthorized hardware.
Have a look:
Sometimes you’ll need software updates to keep using the Services. We may automatically check your version of the software and download software updates or configuration changes, including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorized hardware peripheral devices. You may also be required to update the software to continue using the Services. Such updates are subject to these Terms unless other terms accompany the updates, in which case, those other terms apply. Microsoft isn’t obligated to make any updates available and we don’t guarantee that we will support the version of the system for which you licensed the software.
These terms don't just apply to Windows 10, they also cover other Microsoft services and software, such as Skype, Office 365, Xbox Live, and several more.
As pointed out by Alphr, which first noticed the above section in the updated EULA, the wording is not entirely clear. Obviously Microsoft is taking a stand against software piracy, and specifically games (it's not known how Windows 10 might handle cracked versions of programs like Photoshop), but the bit about "unauthorized hardware peripheral devices" is wide open. It could refer to modified or third-party Xbox One controllers, as well several other possibilities.
2nd Commentator:
fung0 Xenite227 . • 11 hours ago
You don't need a tinfoil hat to see what Microsoft is doing - all you have to do is pay attention. All the privacy violations, the forced updates, the amazingly draconian EULA(s), the new iOS-style UWP apps, the exclusive Windows Store, the Xbox integration, even the free OS giveaway - they add up to just one thing. Windows 10 is fundamentally eliminating the 'personal' in 'personal computer.' Microsoft is taking control of the PC, turning it into a tethered device like a smartphone or tablet.
If you think about it, that's pretty much what "Windows as a Service" means. The only thing it can mean. If it's not a product, you can't own it. And since your PC kind of is Windows, you don't really own that either. Right now, you're still paying up-front for the hardware. But it's just a matter of time before you see PCs with Windows sold 'on contract' like phones. (People used to buy mobile phones too, early on.)
Remember, what you're seeing so far is just the initial release. Microsoft has given itself both the permissions (EULAs) and the technical means (forced updates) to evolve the OS any way they like. Sign up now, we'll take good care of you!
Sorry - I've been a Windows fan for decades, but this isn't what I signed up for. I want a computer on my desk, not some kind of 'connected appliance,' that puts Microsoft's wishes ahead of mine. I know a lot of people can't see the distinction, but it's not really that subtle if you think about it for a minute.