Re: Herded?
So we're talking about a cut-off in about 2008. Is that it?
Not quite.
https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/products/sku/97129/intel-core-i77700k-processor-8m-cache-up-to-4-50-ghz/specifications.html
Launch date: Q1'17
End of servicing updates: March 31, 2024
The i7700k It isn't on the list of supported processors: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/design/minimum/supported/windows-11-supported-intel-processors
One of my "old" laptops (my oldest son inherited it) has this CPU IIRC. That laptop comes with 32GB memory and a 4k OLED display with touch support. It does not feel "old" (even has a better monitor than the latest offering from DELL), yet cannot upgrade to WIn11 through normal means. Its motherboard supports TPM v2. It was one of the more expensive CPUs on offer when the laptop was made.
My *guess* is that the CPUs in question are meltdowned and spectred from here to oblivion so MS simply stopped bothering with them. But AFAIK there are no official word on this. It just looks like an asshole thing to do. While googling now I came across one mention that certain systems had a significant higher propensity for BSODs (and were thus blacklisted by Win11), but I doubt that explains why this particular CPU was dropped.
With the current awareness surrounding e-waste and given just how capable many of these systems are, it is a little bit disappointing. And I say that as a Windows NT user for the past 30+ years. :)
(Oh, I did not downvote you. I agree with most of the stuff you said, and your questions were relevant, but your assumptions were perhaps a tad off)