3 6 Ke·2026-01-04 12:14Core Viewpoint - Microsoft has quietly discontinued the phone activation method for Windows, which has been a crucial offline activation option for many users, especially in secure environments where internet access is restricted [1][3][6]. Group 1: Activation Methods - Microsoft has traditionally offered two activation methods: online activation via the internet and phone activation for offline scenarios [3]. - Phone activation has been a reliable method since the Windows XP era, essential for organizations that cannot connect to the internet [3][10]. - The removal of the phone activation option effectively eliminates the last remaining offline activation method, following the previous removal of unofficial KMS activation [3][6]. Group 2: User Experience and Reactions - Users have reported that when attempting to use phone activation, they receive an automated message directing them to activate online instead [6]. - Despite the automated response, Microsoft's official support documentation still claims that phone activation is available, creating confusion among users [4][6]. - The discontinuation of phone activation has led to significant backlash from users, who feel that Microsoft is increasingly making the Windows operating system reliant on online services, detracting from its functionality as a local operating system [7][8]. Group 3: Impact on Specific Environments - The removal of phone activation poses a structural challenge for environments such as government units, industrial control systems, and other secure networks that cannot connect to the internet [10]. - These environments previously relied on a specific activation process that is now rendered obsolete, leading to operational difficulties [7][10].