It's okay as long as there is a way to opt out. Windows has a "compatibility mode" which users can enable for any executable. That could restore the old API behavior.
The single biggest strength of Windows is its ability to run most applications from 30 years ago, and practically all applications from 20 years ago, without a hitch.
I agree with an opt out but it should be difficult. Like entering recovery mode and enabling a legacy mode from the terminal. That way if you’ve got some industrial application you’ve got a way. But malicious software has a hard time getting users to enable it.
Remember, we're talking about a hardware driver here! It has access to the kernel, so it can ultimately do whatever it wants, the API just makes it easier.
The single biggest strength of Windows is its ability to run most applications from 30 years ago, and practically all applications from 20 years ago, without a hitch.