Microsoft promises faster Windows 11, fewer update restarts, movable taskbar, and les

[harlan4096]

Microsoft details Windows 11 performance and update changes in a new quality roadmap

© Microsoft

Microsoft has published a new Windows 11 quality roadmap, with Windows chief Pavan Davuluri outlining a broader effort to improve performance, reliability, and day to day usability. It’s Microsoft’s attempt to rebuild trust in Windows after months of complaints about bugs, intrusive AI additions, and update problems. Microsoft says the first changes will start appearing for Windows Insiders in late March and throughout April.

File Explorer & Performance

On performance, Microsoft says it will reduce Windows resource usage, lower the baseline memory footprint, and make core parts of the OS feel more responsive. File Explorer is a major target, with promised improvements to launch time, flicker, navigation, search, and large file operations. Microsoft also says it will move more Windows experiences to WinUI3 to cut interaction latency, while WSL is set for faster file performance between Linux and Windows, improved network throughput, and a simpler first time setup flow.


Source: Microsoft
 

Changes coming to Windows 11 in April

• More taskbar customization, including vertical and top positions: Repositioning the taskbar is one of the top asks we’ve heard from you. We are introducing the ability to reposition it to the top or sides of your screen, making it easier to personalize your workspace.
  

• Integrating AI where it’s most meaningful, with craft and focus: You will see us be more intentional about how and where Copilot integrates across Windows, focusing on experiences that are genuinely useful and well‑crafted. As part of this, we are reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points, starting with apps like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets and Notepad.
  

• Reducing disruption from Windows Updates: Receiving updates should be predictable and easy to plan around, so we’re giving you more control. This includes the ability to skip updates during device setup to get to the desktop faster, restart or shut down without installing updates and pause updates for longer when needed, all while reducing update noise with fewer automatic restarts and notifications.
  

• Faster and more dependable File Explorer: File Explorer is one of the most used surfaces in Windows. Our first round of improvements will focus on a quicker launch experience, reduced flicker, smoother navigation and more reliable performance for everyday file tasks.
  

• More control over widgets and feed experiences: Widgets should feel helpful and relevant, not distracting or overwhelming. We’re introducing quieter defaults, more control over when and how widgets appear, and improved personalization for the Discover feed.
  
• A simpler, more transparent Windows Insider Program: The Windows Insider Program is how you help shape the future of Windows, and it should be easy to understand what to expect and how to participate. We are implementing changes to make it easier for you to navigate with clearer channel definitions, easier access to new features, higher quality builds, better visibility into how your feedback shapes Windows, and more opportunities to engage directly with us.
  

• Improved Feedback Hub, available starting today: Your feedback is essential to improving Windows, and it should be easy to share and see what others are saying. Today, we’re rolling out the largest update to Feedback Hub yet to our Insiders, with a redesigned experience that makes it faster and easier to submit feedback and engage with the community.
  

Continue Reading...

[harlan4096]

Windows 11 Update Brings Taskbar Changes, Lower Resource Use, and Less Copilot