Update: Microsoft can shut down pirated software with Windows 10

Update: The EULA appears to be limited to Xbox Live Store and Windows Store content, which still means games and some programs.

According to Microsoft's Windows 10 End User License Agreement (EULA) — the thing you clicked 'Accept' on, but probably never read — Microsoft has the right to shut down any counterfeit software or hardware on your computer or Windows phone. That means pirated games and programs.

Specifically speaking, section 7b or ‘Updates to the Services or Software, and Changes to These Terms’ under EULA states that Microsoft, “may automatically check your version of the software and download software update or configuration changes, including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorized hardware peripheral devices.”

It's interesting to see that both pirated games and peripherals are highlighted. Microsoft might make your third-party controller unusable (or even modified 360 or Xbox One controllers).

This isn't entirely new to Microsoft, they have always maintained the right to brick your Xbox 360 or Xbox One for modifications or pirated games. The move to remove pirated software on Windows 10 makes sense, Microsoft is pushing their gaming initiative on the new operating system by linking it up with the Xbox One and bringing Xbox games over to PC. Heck, Microsoft is even considering bringing back old games back to the PC.

It will be interesting to see where Microsoft goes with this.

[Alphr]