Hi,

Stemming from #18591:

Detailed description of the issue

In 2024, Python's Windows support policy (part of PEP 11) was updated to state that oldest Windows version under active support will be supported. As of Python 3.13 (see the linked issue), Windows 8.1 is no longer supported actively, and NV Access and contributors plan to drop Windows 8.1 support as a result, requiring Windows 10 or 11 (for servers, Windows Server 2016 and later).

Why are the other templates not appropriate in this case?

This is a system requirements change that will touch several modules. Thus, this is not a bug fix or a feature request issue. Further, the work involved will include deprecation of Windows 8.1 attributes.

Have you asked for advice on how to report this issue via a community discussion? If so, please link to the discussion

Yes, initial discussion in #18591.

Steps to reproduce or illustrate the issue (if applicable)

None

Expected outcome or behaviour (if applicable)

Windows 10 requirement will be enforced.

Screenshots, logs, and other attachments (if applicable)

None

System configuration or software environment (if applicable)

This issue is created on a computer running Windows 11 24H2 Insider Preview beta.

Additional information (if applicable)

The work that will enforce Windows 10 requirement lives in josephsl/nvda under "aqua" branch (aqua is a mixture of blue and green).

Design and procedure

The following will be done:

1. In sconscript (including arch sconscript), Windows 10 subsystem will be used.
2. In winVersion, minimum Windows version will be set to winVersion.WIN10 (Windows 10 1507/RTM).
3. Windows 10 version checks throughout the source code will be removed i.e. the source code will assume Windows 10 and later.
4. Default speech synthesizer will be set to Windows OneCore.

Important notes:

1. Support for Windows 10 Version 1507 (LTSB) will end on October 14, 2025.
2. Blocked by Python 3.13 and 64-bit transitions.

Thanks.