Windows 10 is killing it

Windows 10 has amassed over 120 million users in just three months, WinBeta reports, citing anonymous sources.

The latest statistic comes after the company announced over 110 million people are using the newest operating system earlier in October, up from 75 million users in August.

Compared to both Windows 7 and 8, the growth of Windows 10 is impressive, and arguably contradicts the narrative that consumers are no longer interested in PCs. During its first three months of release, Windows 7 gained around 80 million users while Windows 8 had around the same.

(The total usage of Apple's OS X is around 80 million users.)

Microsoft's stated aim is one billion Windows 10 users in three years, which includes usage on PCs, tablets, smartphones, and Internet of Things devices. Windows 7 is currently used by more than one billion people and if Windows 10 keeps growing at its current rate it should reach that goal.

One of the reasons for the fast adoption of Windows 10 could be that it's a free download, while previous versions had a cost attached. However, as noted Microsoft watcher Paul Thurrot notes, both Windows 7 and 8 came with heavy discounts at launch making the figures slightly more comparable.

Windows 10 is also reportedly automatically installing itself on some compatible PCs, which will contribute to the rate of adoption.

Business Insider has reached out to Microsoft to verify the 120 million figure. We will update the post when we hear back.