Microsoft has unveiled a huge update to search on Windows 11 that look to be focused on improving the search experience with more accurate results, less reliance on the web, and even a removal of annoying ads and promotional material.

"You’ve have been asking for search that is faster, more relevant, and easier to use—whether you’re opening an app, finding a file, or changing a setting," Microsoft says in a new blog post. "Because the Windows Search Box is where many people start, we focused first on making results more dependable, easier to scan, and clearer before you click."

The company is highlighting several key improvements, including clearer results that does a better job at showing why a search result is appearing when a query has been typed, alongside prioritizing local results before reaching out to the web.

Search is also getting better at handling things like typos, which should help surface the right results even when the user misspells an app or file. The search home pane will no longer show MSN or Bing content, and promotional content and ads will no longer appear in search results.

Here's a complete list of the changes Microsoft has announced for search on Windows 11:

• A calmer home screen. Search home has been simplified to reduce visual clutter and make it easier to get back to recent searches quickly.
• Clearer results. Search does a better job showing where a result comes from—app, setting, file, web result, or Store suggestion—so it’s easier to tell what you’re looking at and where you will go before you click.
• Promotional content has been removed from web results. Web results show the most relevant answer, instead of first showing related products and promotions, helping search feel more focused and less distracting.
• You’re in control of web and Microsoft Store results. A new setting in Settings > Privacy & Security > Search lets you choose whether web and Microsoft Store suggestions appear alongside local results.
• Local results prioritized when they’re the better match. Apps, settings, and files more reliably appear ahead of web and Store suggestions when your content is the stronger match. System items like This PC and Recycle Bin are easier to discover.
• Finding apps is more forgiving. Search is better at handling typos, dropped letters, extra letters, and partial words for apps. Queries like “utlook” can still find Outlook.
• Settings results are improving. We’ve made a first round of ranking improvements to help more relevant settings appear higher in results, with more tuning planned in the coming months.
• Finding files is improving. Search is better at surfacing the right local files with added support for two-character file searches. We’ve also made improvements to show cloud and connected files in results when they’re the stronger match. These changes help you get to the document, download, or folder you are looking for faster.
• Reliability is improving. Improved search reliability, including reducing likelihood of crashing and loading issue, with more work underway.

These upgrades are now rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental Channel, and are expected to roll out to all Windows 11 users later this year. Insiders may not see the changes right away as they are rolling out in waves.

These improvements are part of Microsoft's larger Windows K2 effort, which is an effort to fix Windows 11's biggest problems and reposition the platform as a viable competitor alongside macOS and Linux.

Search has been a sore point of Windows for a number of years, and so hopefully these improvements will be exactly what Windows users have been waiting for to bring it back up to par with the rest of the competition.

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Windows 11 has a new search box on the way, or at least a slightly larger one. The search box within the Windows 11 Start menu will be four pixels taller if a change that's currently in preview ships to everyone.

That's four more entire pixels of height dedicated to searching for files or using the improved search capabilities of Windows 11. The change, which was accidentally included in release notes for a preview build, was the butt of jokes. But I think it also shows something bigger (pun intended).

Windows 11 has had design inconsistencies for years. Context menus are a mess and the operating system has a mix of features that originated in different decades. The Windows K2 initiative aims to reduce the pain points of Windows 11. As part of the push, Microsoft will also iron out inconsistencies.

Biggest News of the Week

With the development of Windows 11, if design consistency is thought about at all, it's an afterthought. The OS is several operating systems in a trenchcoat, resulting in a mismatched design.

But even within individual apps or settings, Windows 11's design lacks polish. The infamous one pixel border around apps infuriates some people and has been a hot-button topic for years.

If you look hard enough, you'll find tiny issues throughout the design of Windows 11. Windows not aligning or inconsistent menus do not break the operating system, but they do make it look unpolished. If Microsoft wants to convince people it cares about Windows 11, the OS needs to look like a finished product.

Small changes like resizing the search box in the taskbar, which appears to have been done to align with Copilot Search, add up. Attention to detail matters.

While the Windows K2 initiative may be felt most through its impact on RAM usage or other elements that affect performance, it can also give Windows 11 a refreshed look that improves the overall computing experience.

Shopping with Sean

A growing number of Windows 11 laptops are on sale. If you need a budget-friendly convertible, a premium-quality clamshell laptop under $1,000, or a brand-new laptop with a Snapdragon X2 and a beautiful OLED display, there are sales worth a look.

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Microsoft is exploring several improvements to the Windows 11 shell and user experience that will incorporate your smartphone into more aspects of the OS. According to my sources who are familiar with these plans, the company is working to expand and improve Phone Link's smartphone integration experiences so that they feel more native to Windows.

First up, I hear that the Phone Companion in Start is set to receive a handful of upgrades. It's gaining the ability to show more recent activities, with users being able to scroll through the list without needing to open the Phone Link app. I've also heard that users will be able to hover over activities to see more information, such as an entire message or photo.

I've also heard that a new dedicated smartphone flyout is being tested, which will exist on the Taskbar in the system tray. The phone icon will be present whenever your phone is connected, and clicking on it will open a flyout that provides the user with overview of their phone status.

It'll feature buttons to toggle things like do not disturb, vibrate mode, find phone, and more. You'll also be able to share files directly to your phone by dragging them to the icon.

Another feature Microsoft is looking into is syncing your clipboard history between your phone and PC using Windows 11's dedicated Clipboard feature. Currently, you can sync your clipboard from your phone and PC, but it only remembers the last thing you copied. Clipboard history would provide you with a synced list of everything that has been copied.

Microsoft is also working on a new dedicated Messages app for Windows 11 which will sync your phone's SMS conversations and let you respond and start chats with your contacts. This experience builds upon the messages feature already present in the Phone Link app, but will exist as a standalone app that can be pinned and launched from the Start menu.

Sources say that all of these features are being explored and prototyped internally, but that doesn't guarantee they'll ship as described. The company is likely planning to gather feedback from Insiders before committing to ship anything concrete.

I understand that the goal of these improvements is to slowly integrate Phone Link capabilities natively across the Windows shell. Phone Link has existed as a standalone app on top of Windows 11, but over the last year or so we've slowly seen new smartphone integration features added directly to the Windows OS, circumventing the Phone Link app entirely.

Features such as the ability to see your phone's file system and photos in the File Explorer app, or utilize your phones camera as a webcam on your PC are just two examples of how Microsoft have already been working to integrate your smartphone more seamlessly into the Windows 11 UX.

I don't know what the future holds for Phone Link app itself, but it's clear that Microsoft is not done with tying your phone to your PC. It's working on more improvements that will make your smartphone feel like a natural extension of your computer, with experiences that feel native to the Windows UX.

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Microsoft has spent years building different ways for users to recover Windows. From System Restore and Reset this PC to the other tools available in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and OEM recovery solutions, Windows 11 already offers several ways to repair or reinstall the operating system. Cloud rebuild is the latest addition to that toolkit, but it isn't designed to replace those tools.

Cloud rebuild is currently available as a preview feature. Until it's fully available, Microsoft recommends using it for testing and evaluation rather than production devices. Also, the company notes that the experience, available options, and workflow may still change before the feature reaches general availability.

Instead of attempting to repair an existing installation, Cloud rebuild reformats the system drive and reinstalls Windows 11 using files downloaded from Windows Update. When the process finishes, the computer boots into the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), allowing you to set it up like a new device.

Cloud rebuild isn't another version of Reset this PC

At first glance, it's easy to assume Cloud rebuild is simply a renamed version of the Cloud download option available through Reset this PC. Microsoft, however, describes Cloud rebuild as a separate recovery experience with a different workflow.

According to Microsoft, unlike Reset this PC, Cloud rebuild downloads both the target Windows 11 image and the device's drivers from Windows Update. The company says this allows the computer to roll back to a fully functional state without requiring USB installation media, a custom recovery image, or relying on the integrity of the existing installation.

The key difference is that Cloud rebuild is designed to rebuild the device from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) without depending on the integrity of the existing setup.

Microsoft hasn't yet explained in more detail how Cloud rebuild differs internally from the existing Cloud download option in Reset this PC, so it's too early to conclude that it uses an entirely new recovery engine. However, based on the preview support page, the company appears to be positioning Cloud rebuild as a more complete recovery workflow designed to simplify the process of returning Windows 11 devices to a known-good state.

Perhaps more importantly, the feature reflects Microsoft's broader direction for Windows management. Whether Cloud rebuild eventually replaces some of today's overlapping recovery options remains to be seen, but it clearly signals the company's continued investment in cloud-based deployment and recovery.

Before using Cloud rebuild, here's what you need to know

Before using Cloud rebuild, it's important to understand that this isn't a repair tool. It completely replaces the existing installation by reformatting the system drive. As a result, locally installed apps, user accounts, settings, and files stored on that drive are removed during the process.

Also, files already synchronized with cloud services such as OneDrive aren't affected and can be restored after you sign back in.

Since the rebuild erases the existing installation, it's worth making sure your important files have been backed up before getting started. If you rely on OneDrive, verify that your files have finished syncing so the latest versions are available after the rebuild.

You'll also want to keep the computer connected to the internet and plugged into a power source throughout the process. Depending on your connection speed, the recovery can take some time to complete, and Windows 11 may restart the computer several times before it's finished.

How to start Cloud rebuild on Windows 11

In the current preview, Cloud rebuild is available through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). From a working Windows 11 installation, open Settings > System > Recovery, click "Restart now" under Advanced startup, and allow the computer to restart into WinRE.

On the recovery screen, choose "Troubleshoot," and then select "Cloud rebuild."

After connecting to the internet, the feature verifies the appropriate edition, language, and build for the device before asking you to confirm that the system drive will be erased.

Once you confirm the operation by clicking "Install," the rebuild begins automatically.

During the installation, Windows 11 may restart several times. Microsoft recommends leaving the device connected to power and avoiding manual restarts or shutdowns until the process finishes, since interrupting the installation could leave the operating system unable to boot.

Microsoft's cloud-first recovery strategy continues

Cloud rebuild isn't Microsoft's first cloud-based recovery feature, but it may be one of the most comprehensive. Instead of relying on recovery partitions, USB installation media, or organization-maintained recovery images, the feature downloads the installation files directly from Windows Update and integrates with services such as Windows Autopilot, Microsoft Intune, Backup for Organizations, and OneDrive to restore managed devices.

The result is a recovery process that depends less on locally stored recovery files and more on Microsoft's online services. As long as the computer can connect to the internet and Windows Update has the necessary drivers, Cloud rebuild can restore the device without requiring a USB installer or a custom recovery image.

For organizations, the recovery process goes beyond simply reinstalling the operating system. Computers enrolled with Windows Autopilot and managed through Microsoft Intune can automatically re-enroll, restore policies, redeploy apps, and synchronize user settings after the rebuild is complete.

Windows recovery is slowly moving beyond USB drives

For years, one of Microsoft's standard recommendations for recovering a device has been to create USB installation media.

Cloud rebuild doesn't eliminate installation media altogether, but it makes it significantly less important in many situations. If WinRE is still functional and the computer can connect to the internet, Windows 11 can recover without another device, a USB flash drive, or a locally stored recovery image.

For many home users, that's a much simpler recovery process. For organizations, it reduces the need to maintain recovery images across large fleets of devices.

There are still important limitations

Cloud rebuild isn't magic. The feature currently requires Windows 11 on compatible hardware (so unsupported devices won't benefit from this feature), a healthy Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), internet connectivity from WinRE, and hardware drivers that are available through Windows Update.

Those last two requirements are especially important. If the necessary networking or storage drivers aren't available through Windows Update, Cloud rebuild can't complete successfully.

The preview only scratches the surface

At this stage, Cloud rebuild remains intentionally limited. The preview can currently be started only from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or from an elevated Command Prompt.

Remote deployment through enterprise management platforms isn't available yet, although Microsoft says support for solutions such as Microsoft Intune is planned for a future release.

Windows Central's Take

Cloud rebuild isn't the kind of feature that grabs headlines. There's no redesigned interface and nothing flashy to demonstrate. However, after years of covering the operating system, I've learned that recovery features often become the most important ones the moment something goes wrong.

What I'm noticing is the decision to build the recovery experience around Windows Update. Instead of expecting users or network administrators to maintain recovery media, OEM images, or custom deployment images, Microsoft is increasingly shifting recovery toward cloud-based services. That's a simpler model and one that better reflects how devices are managed today.

I also think this feature has more potential for organizations than for home users, at least initially. The integration with Windows Autopilot and Microsoft Intune suggests Microsoft is thinking beyond simply reinstalling Windows 11. The goal appears to be restoring an entire managed device with as little manual intervention as possible.

That said, I'd like the software giant to better explain how Cloud rebuild differs from the existing Cloud download option in Reset this PC. Currently, the available information describes the workflow but leaves some important technical questions unanswered. Until those details are available (and until the feature reaches general availability), I see Cloud rebuild as a promising addition to Windows 11 recovery rather than a replacement for the tools users already have.

Would you trust Cloud rebuild to recover your Windows 11 PC, or would you still prefer using a USB installation drive? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

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With Sony planning to stop making discs for games and revoke access to movies and TV shows people paid for, physical media is more important than ever. Xbox is considering a disc-to-digital program for Project Helix, proving Microsoft weighs the importance of physical media when making decisions.

But the physical media debate isn't really about discs; it's about control. People want to control the content and devices they've purchased. Microsoft's newly expanded options for resetting PCs showcase how choice and control can be given to consumers.

Like many, I've spoken out against Sony's plans and advocated for physical media to be preserved. So, it might come as a surprise to hear that I'm happy about the new option to reset a Windows 11 PC that relies entirely on the cloud and does not use a USB drive.

While I advocate for physical media to preserve ownership of games and movies, when it comes to the pure utility of fixing a broken PC, convenience wins.

A new feature called Cloud rebuild is in testing on Windows 11. It lets you restore a PC to a clean state without needing an external drive.

What is Cloud rebuild on Windows 11?

Cloud rebuild is a feature that lets you reinstall Windows and your PC's drivers by using the internet. Rather than requiring a USB drive that's been set up, you can reset your PC entirely through the cloud.

Microsoft explained Cloud rebuild recently when the feature shipped to Insiders:

"Unlike Reset this PC, Cloud rebuild downloads both the target Windows image and the device's drivers from Windows Update, so the device comes back fully functional without USB media, without a custom image, and without depending on the health of the currently installed OS."

While Reset this PC and Cloud rebuild both let you recover your PC, they differ in important ways apart from the fact that one uses a USB drive and the other uses the cloud.

Reset this PC gives you the option to retain your personal files, which could save vital content from being lost. But even if you have an external USB install drive ready to go, you can only use Reset this PC if Windows is bootable.

The feature also requires you to have manually created a USB installer ahead of time on a working computer.

In contrast, Cloud rebuild works even if your PC refuses to boot. The downside is that it does not provide an option to maintain apps and files.

Cloud rebuild brings your PC to a clean slate with Windows working and device drivers in place.

The biggest advantage of Cloud rebuild is reliability. Cloud rebuild doesn't rely on a tool you've set up in advance or ensured was formatted correctly. It just pulls a fresh image and drivers through Windows Update.

All my files are stored on OneDrive and backed up elsewhere, so I don't need the option to retain my files. It would save a bit of time after a reset, but it's not essential.

Cloud rebuild does depend on having an internet connection, so a USB installer is still the safer option for people in low‑connectivity environments.

Let the people decide

Of course, having the option to use a USB drive or the cloud is best. While I personally prefer Cloud rebuild for restoring my PC, I want both options to be available. Many people prefer to have physical tools they know are reliable and that can run locally.

That's what the current debate about physical media comes down to: choice and control. The vast majority of game sales are digital, but people want the option to own physical media.

Windows 11 management is the same way. Some will rely on the cloud while others will have USB drives to reset their PC and SSDs stored away to back up files.

Cloud rebuild is the better option for my workflow, but the point isn’t to replace USB recovery. It’s to give people the choice and control. Just like physical media, recovery tools shouldn’t be taken away; they should coexist.

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Microsoft is using AI to protect Windows against attackers. The development represents an arms race because AI is also being used increasingly to find vulnerabilities modern tech, as highlighted by The Hacker News.

Hackers can use AI to find and take advantage of vulnerabilities that could then be weaponized. It's not just discovery that's been sped up, reverse engineering security flaws is now a quicker process because of AI. That means attackers can find flaws and quickly take advantage of them before traditional methods of protection could take effect.

To combat those malicious actors and evolving tactics, Microsoft is deploying MDASH (Multi-Model Agentic Scanning Harness) at scale across Windows.

Pavan Davuluri, EVP of Windows and Devices at Microsoft, shared a blog post about the new methods the company is using to protect Windows.

"The fastest way to reduce customer exposure is to find issues before attackers can use them," said Davuluri. "Windows is expanding its ability across the platform to find issues earlier, accelerate the engineering work to fix them, strengthen validation, and deliver timely, high-quality updates that keep customers protected."

Using AI to identify potential flaws, prioritize fixes, and scale discovery across the codebase of Windows lets Microsoft quickly roll out protection to customers.

To scale MDASH to Windows, a dedicated cloud infrastructure was set up for scanning for potential flaws. A separate prove pipeline then is used to eliminate false positives. The Windows engineering team can then act on the most likely candidates that need addressing.

Microsoft will expand its use of AI for scanning and proving to other parts of the company.

Using AI to improve work

When Microsoft announced 4,800 layoffs across the company, its leaders emphasized that the eliminated roles are not being replaced by AI. People across a wide range of sectors are concerned about automation taking human jobs.

The approach Microsoft is using to scan for issues and streamline the selection process of candidates to address represents AI helping people rather than replacing workers.

When speaking of improving internal systems and practices, Davuluri said, "That means using AI to help identify potential issues earlier in the development process, while relying on human expertise to evaluate findings, make risk-based decisions and ensure fixes meet the quality bar customers expect."

The end result is that more security updates will be included in each security release, which should protect PCs from the growing number of attacks.

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It looks like Microsoft is planning to make a small but interesting (ok, maybe not that interesting) change to Windows 11 in the coming weeks, one that has us scratching our heads a bit. The company has revealed (albeit accidentally) that it's making the search box that appears on the Taskbar and in the Start menu a little taller, by 4 whole pixels.

4 pixels doesn't sound like much of a change, but it is a noticeable difference, if you can believe it. The change makes the search box appear chunkier, taking up more visible space above and below it, and bringing it closer to the top edge of the Taskbar itself and slightly pushing content down in Start.

Here's a before and after of the Start menu and Taskbar, in gif format so that it loops making the difference very easy to identify:

Microsoft hasn't explained why it's making this change, but if I had to guess, I'd say the change is being made to align it with the Ask Copilot search box appearance, which differs from the existing Windows Search search box.

Ask Copilot is an alternative search experience coming soon to the Taskbar on Windows 11 that incorporates Copilot chat directly into the user interface. It's currently aimed at commercial customers, and includes a thicker but narrower search box that appears on the Taskbar when enabled.

Ask Copilot is a separate UI to the standard Windows Search experience, and needs to be manually enabled before you can use it. That's why I think Microsoft is making the default search box 4 pixels taller, as the company likes the look of Ask Copilot and would like that appearance to apply to the default search box too.

Here's a closer look at the search box on the Taskbar comparing the new height to the old height. See, it is a noticeable difference! Investigative journalism at its finest on display here.

Either way, you can likely expect to see the search box in the Start menu and on the Taskbar get slightly bigger in the coming months, as Microsoft begins rolling out the change to Insiders before making it generally available to all. The change was unveiled in a changelog for a recent Windows 11 preview build, but a Microsoft engineer has since confirmed to me that the change isn't yet being previewed.

Thanks phantomofearth!

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Windows 11 includes several built-in tools to help keep storage usage under control on your computer. Features like Storage Sense, the Temporary Files settings page, and Storage Recommendation can help you reclaim storage with ease, making third-party cleanup utilities less essential than they once were.

However, those features don't clean everything. If you want more control over temporary files, browser data, app caches, and privacy-related files, BleachBit is one tool you have to try. It's free, open source, and, unlike many PC "optimizer" apps, it focuses on cleaning unnecessary files rather than promising unrealistic performance improvements.

In this how-to guide, I'll explain what BleachBit does, how to use it on Windows 11, which settings I recommend, and which features you should avoid unless you understand exactly what they do.

What is BleachBit?

BleachBit is a free and open-source cleanup utility for Windows 11 that removes temporary files, caches, logs, browsing data, and other unnecessary files created by the operating system and many third-party apps.

Unlike many commercial cleanup tools, BleachBit doesn't include advertisements, bundled tools, or premium features. Instead, it gives you complete control over what gets removed and explains every cleaning option before you run it.

Rather than replacing the built-in cleanup tools available on Windows 11, I see BleachBit as an additional utility for users who want more control over what gets cleaned.

Why use BleachBit?

Although Windows 11 already provides several storage management tools, BleachBit adds several more capabilities.

For example, cleaning the system's temporary files as well as those junk files created by third-party apps. You can also use the tool to clean temporary browser data, such as cache, history, and downloads.

In addition, BleachBit provides secure file shredding to make recovery more difficult and wipes free storage space on supported drives.

Finally, the tool offers command-line support for scripting and automation, and there's a portable version that you can use without installation.

The biggest advantage is flexibility. Instead of cleaning everything automatically, BleachBit lets you decide exactly what should (and shouldn't) be removed.

Install BleachBit on Windows 11

Installing BleachBit is straightforward. You can download either the standard installer or the portable version, then launch the application. However, the quickest way to install the app is by running the winget install --id BleachBit.BleachBit command in Command Prompt (admin).

For most cleanup tasks, running it in normal mode is enough. Some system cleaning options may require administrator privileges.

Once opened, you'll notice a list of apps and cleaning categories on the left, along with a brief description of each option as you select it.

Always run Preview first

One feature I recommend using every time is Preview. Instead of immediately deleting files, the "Preview" option scans your system, estimates how much storage space can be reclaimed, and shows exactly what BleachBit intends to remove.

Even if you've used BleachBit before, I still recommend running the Preview option first.

Recommended cleanup options

For routine maintenance, I recommend starting with categories that are generally safe to remove.

For example, from the "System" section, some good choices include:

• Temporary files.
• Logs.
• Clipboard.
• Recycle Bin.
• Update uninstallers.

Usually, these items consume storage over time without affecting your daily workflow.

For browser cleaning, I suggest being more selective. Clearing cached files occasionally is perfectly reasonable, but deleting cookies will sign you out of websites, and removing session data will close saved browsing sessions.

Unless you're troubleshooting a browser issue or intentionally clearing your browsing activity, I usually leave those options unchecked.

The same advice applies to app caches. While they're generally safe to clear, some apps may take longer to launch the next time because they'll need to recreate those files.

As mentioned above, cleaning actions may require using the tool in Expert mode. If you receive the prompt, open the BleachBit main menu, select "Preferences," and choose the "Expert mode" option located in the "General" tab.

Securely delete sensitive files

BleachBit includes a built-in file shredder for permanently deleting sensitive files (and folders).

Unlike sending a file to the Recycle Bin (or even deleting it permanently with the "Shift + Delete" shortcut), secure shredding overwrites the file's contents before removing it, making recovery using standard data recovery tools much more difficult.

If you want to use this feature, open the BleachBit menu (the first icon at the top-left), choose the "Shred Files" option, then select the file to delete.

This feature is useful when you're deleting confidential content, financial records, or other sensitive files you don't want recovered later.

Wipe free disk space

The open-source tool can also overwrite unused space on a drive to remove traces of files that were previously deleted through the Recycle Bin.

This feature is intended primarily for drives before selling, donating, or retiring a computer, or for secondary drives.

The feature is available from the BleachBit main menu by selecting the "Wipe Empty Space" option and choosing the drive you want to clean.

I don't recommend running free-space wiping as part of regular maintenance because it takes time and provides little benefit for everyday use.

If you're preparing a device for resale, the Reset this PC feature is generally the better approach.

One feature you won't find

One thing that BleachBit doesn't offer is a Registry cleaner.

I actually consider that an advantage. For years, Registry cleaners have been marketed as a way to improve performance in the operating system, but in practice, they rarely provide measurable benefits. Worse, removing the wrong Registry entries can cause apps or the system itself to behave unexpectedly.

Microsoft doesn't include a Registry cleaner on Windows 11, and I don't think most users should use one.

By focusing on cleaning unnecessary files instead of modifying the Registry, BleachBit avoids one of the biggest sources of risk associated with older computer optimization suites.

Does BleachBit make Windows 11 faster?

Not directly. When you delete temporary files, you can free up storage space and occasionally resolve issues caused by bad caches, but it won't make your computer faster.

If Windows 11 feels sluggish because your drive is nearly full, cleanup may help. However, performance issues are usually caused by factors such as not enough memory, older hardware, too many startup apps, malware, or software conflicts, not because your temporary files folder is too large (at least not the majority of the time).

Should you use BleachBit?

If you're comfortable with the built-in cleanup tools available on Windows 11, you may never need another maintenance utility.

However, if you want additional control over browser data, temporary files, app caches, privacy-related cleanup, secure file shredding, and other advanced maintenance tasks, you may benefit from BleachBit.

The open-source nature, easy-to-use interface, and decision to avoid questionable features like Registry cleaning make it one of the few utilities for cleaning up Windows 11 and one of the few alternatives to CCleaner.

Windows Central's Take

In the many years I've used the desktop version of Windows, I've tested and relied on countless cleanup utilities. Some of them were genuinely useful at the time, but many were eventually discontinued, acquired by other companies, or changed so much that they no longer offered the same experience.

Over time, I've become much more selective about the tools I recommend, especially when it comes to software that makes changes to the operating system.

More often than not, I recommend learning and using the built-in tools. However, BleachBit takes a different approach, and that's why I think it stands out. It focuses on cleaning files, not "fixing" the operating system, and I appreciate that it skips gimmicks like Registry cleaning that can do more harm than good.

If you decide to use it, my advice is not to treat it like a one-click optimization tool. Take advantage of the Preview feature, understand what each option does, and only clean what you actually need. If you use it that way, I think BleachBit is one of the few maintenance utilities that still deserve a spot in your toolkit.

What are your thoughts about BleachBit? Do you prefer Windows 11's built-in cleanup tools, or do you use a third-party utility? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

The Steam Machine is here, and despite an (isolated) issue dubbed the "red line of death" and performance that has been a little underwhelming, those who own the machine seem to be enjoying it. Either way, its egregious $1,000+ price tag is hardly Valve's fault, but rather a reflection of the wider industry as memory prices continue to climb.

The good news is that Valve has now released official Windows drivers for the Steam Machine, reinforcing that it's still a PC at heart. If you want to install Windows instead of SteamOS, you can, giving you the freedom to do pretty much whatever you want with the Gabecube that you own.

As Valve puts it: "Steam Deck and Steam Machine are PCs, and other applications and OSes can be installed" — there is a catch, however, as Steam hardware still doesn't officially support dual-booting, which may or may not be a deal-breaker for some.

I don't even own a Steam Machine, but I would have liked that flexible OS option if I did. Still, despite this, it's great to see how open Valve is. Providing official Windows drivers is a nice touch, and it's something the company already does for the Steam Deck.

Personally, I wanted Steam Machine to enter the market and provide serious competition for the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Unfortunately, that seems to have been wishful thinking on my part, and again, that's through no fault of Valve's. Current market conditions have pushed memory prices to the point where companies are even facing lawsuits over allegations of price-fixing and intentionally restricting supply to keep prices high.

Don't worry, though. I'm sure things can't get much worse — except they can, as I'm sure we're all aware; the memory crisis isn't going anywhere, and we, the consumers, are having to pay the price. But let me know your thoughts on running Windows on Steam Machine by leaving a comment and taking part in our poll below:

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

A bizarre Windows 11 issue is causing a single, bloated folder to swallow massive amounts of storage. In extreme cases, the folder can balloon up to 500GB. Others have seen dozens of gigabytes eaten up by the folder.

A file called "CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal" is the culprit. Windows Latest took a deep dive into the situation and Microsoft has addressed that file with a recent update.

Capability Access Manager is related to granting apps permissions, such as letting an app know your location or giving an app permission to use your PC's camera. The CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file can grow to be large, though eating up 500GB of storage is not an intended behavior. That's the size of that file for one Reddit user. Others have lost a similar amount of storage to the bloated file.

It appears that Windows 11 is wrongfully logging repeated events for access and then storing that information. Capability Access Manager is supposed to store large amounts of data, but it should store items more efficiently.

July's Patch Tuesday update should fix the issue. You can push the fix right away by installing an optional update.

A Microsoft support document outlines all the improvements rolling out normally (emphasis added):

• [Secure Boot] With this update, Windows quality updates include additional high confidence device targeting data, increasing coverage of devices eligible to automatically receive new Secure Boot certificates. Devices receive the new certificates only after demonstrating sufficient successful update signals, maintaining a controlled and phased rollout.
• [Authentication] This update improves Netlogon secure channel connections between domain controllers, enabling successful connections from member servers to domain controllers set up before 2025.
• [Emoji Panel Update] The emoji panel (Windows key + period (.)) now uses GIPHY for GIF content following the deprecation of Google’s Tenor API. Starting June 30, 2026, install the latest Windows update to continue using GIFs in the Emoji panel. If you don’t update, you will see a "GIF service is not available" error in the panel. Installing the latest Windows update will restore access to GIFs.
• [Networking] This update improves how your device connects to shared network resources. Connections used by apps and system features, such as the NetUseAdd function, now work more reliably, including unauthenticated (null session) connections.
• [Recycle Bin (known issue)] Fixed: This update addresses an issue where the confirmation dialog might display an internal Recycle Bin file name instead of the original file name when permanently deleting a file. This issue might occur after installing the June 2026 security update (KB5094126).
• [Storage] This update improves disk space usage for the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file.
• [Taskbar] This update improves notification badge display across your apps. Notification counts and badge visuals now update correctly, helping you stay up to date with new activity.

The change log notes the issue related to the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file, but it does not go into much detail.

It is possible to delete the folder containing the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file, but you have to be careful. If you delete just the file or erase the wrong item, you could break your PC's Wi-Fi connectivity.

A Reddit user deleted the file and was no longer able to connect to Wi-Fi. In their case, removing the folder and restarting their PC fixed the issue.

If your PC works well and you have enough space for your everyday workflow, you don't have to do anything right away. You can simply wait for the fix to roll out next month.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has announced another new recovery method for Windows 11 PCs that will allow users to reinstall the OS using the cloud. The new recovery tool is called Cloud Rebuild which will restore a PC to a "clean, known-good state by performing an entire OS reinstall."

The new Cloud Rebuild feature will download the Windows OS along with your devices drivers, and seamlessly install them during the recovery process so that your device is fully functional once the OS reinstalled, all without needing an external USB install drive.

"Unlike Reset this PC, Cloud rebuild downloads both the target Windows image and the device's drivers from Windows Update, so the device comes back fully functional without USB media, without a custom image, and without depending on the health of the currently installed OS."

Reset this PC has had its own cloud download option for a while, but that feature is only useful when the Windows OS is bootable, and acquires drivers from the device locally. In scenarios where the OS has become unbootable, the new Cloud Rebuild option will be a life saver.

Cloud Rebuild also doesn't include an option to maintain apps and files. Reset this PC includes an option to maintain all your data across the reset, but Cloud Rebuild is strictly for reinstalling the Windows OS as a clean slate with device drivers.

The new Cloud Rebuild recovery option is now rolling out in preview to Windows Insiders in the latest Windows 11 preview builds, so it's not generally available just yet but it should begin rolling out to everyone in the coming months.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has already confirmed that Windows 11 version 26H2 is the next annual feature update, and it's expected to roll out during the second half of 2026. Unlike those feature drop upgrades we used to get, requiring a full installation, this release will follow the same servicing model as version 25H2, arriving as a small enablement package that simply switches the version number from 25H2 to 26H2.

Whenever the company takes this approach, I see the same reaction: "It's not a real update because it doesn't include anything new," and I don't think that's accurate.

The enablement package is just the way the software giant delivers the update. It doesn't determine what's actually included in the release.

Today, Windows 11 evolves through monthly cumulative updates rather than one massive annual upgrade. Throughout the lifecycle of version 25H2, Microsoft continues to roll out new features, interface improvements, and security enhancements. When version 26H2 arrives, all of those additions officially become part of the next supported release.

If you're already running Windows 11 version 25H2, you'll likely receive most of these features before upgrading to 26H2. The actual installation will simply enable the new version while extending support for another two years. If you're upgrading from an older release, however, all of these improvements will arrive together, making the update feel much more substantial.

That alone is reason enough not to dismiss Windows 11 version 26H2.

In this guide, I'll highlight seven features and improvements I'm personally looking forward to the most.

Windows 11 2026 Update (version 26H2) top features

This list is not organized in any specific order. Also, at the time of this writing, the improvements are part of the Windows Insider Program, more specifically in the Experimental channel.

As a result, Microsoft can choose to discard any of them at any time, and remember that the company uses a gradual rollout approach, meaning it could take time for the new improvements to reach every compatible device, even after version 26H2 has been released.

1. Ask Copilot finally feels useful

Microsoft has been adding AI features across Windows 11 over the past couple of years, but not all of them have improved everyday tasks.

Ask Copilot aims to be something different. It introduces a new search box that brings Copilot directly into the search experience, allowing you to interact with AI while also using it as a traditional search tool.

It's not just for chat-style answers. You can use it to quickly find files, open apps, or locate system settings, similar to Windows Search but with AI-assisted results layered in.

What makes this feature more interesting is that it's optional. You're not forced to replace Windows Search. You can choose when to use Copilot instead.

While I'm not fully convinced of Microsoft's AI integration, I like this feature because it's surprisingly fast for surfacing settings and files, and it's optional.

This feature can be managed from Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.

This feature is expected to be available on Copilot+ PCs as well as on regular PCs.

2. A more customizable Taskbar

The Taskbar is probably the part of the desktop I interact with more than anything else, so even small improvements can make a noticeable difference.

This new version is expected to bring long-requested customization options, including the ability to position the Taskbar anywhere on the desktop, and you'll also be able to make the Taskbar smaller.

These Taskbar improvements have specific settings that can be managed from Settings > Personalization > Taskbar, and then by accessing the "Taskbar behaviors" settings to change the position and size.

Giving users more control has always been one of the platform's strengths, and I'd like to see Microsoft continue moving in that direction.

3. The redesigned Start menu

The redesigned Start menu is probably the feature I'm most excited about.

Microsoft is finally making better use of the available space while giving users more flexibility over how the menu looks and behaves.

First, the company is adding a menu setting to choose between smaller and larger sizes, rather than relying on the system to automatically determine size based on screen scaling and resolution.

Then there's an updated layout that makes it easier to organize pinned apps, browse installed applications, and reduce some of the clutter that has frustrated many Windows 11 users since launch.

For example, you can now independently show or hide Pinned, Recent, and All.

Also, note that "Recommended" has now been renamed to "Recent," and it's much clearer to hide it. Also, you can customize what type of content appears in this section.

Furthermore, disabling recent and suggested files will no longer turn off File Explorer's recent history.

Finally, to improve privacy while doing a presentation, you'll find a new option to hide your name and profile picture from the Start menu.

These settings will appear under Settings > Personalization > Start.

Instead of insisting there's only one correct way to use the Start menu, the company is giving users more choices. That's exactly what I expect from the operating system.

4. Windows Search without web results

This may be one of the smallest additions in version 26H2, but it's also one I've wanted for a long time.

Microsoft is finally adding an option to turn off web results in the Windows Search feature.

When I open the Start menu and type something, I'm usually looking for a file, a setting, or an app on my computer, not Bing search results. So, having a built-in setting to turn off web results should make Windows Search feel faster, cleaner, and far less distracting.

This implementation is expected to appear on Settings > Privacy & security > Search, under the "Show suggested search results" setting, where you'll also find an option to prevent search from showing Microsoft Store apps.

Sometimes the best new features are the ones that remove unnecessary clutter.

Currently, this feature is still a work in progress, but it can already be surfaced in the latest preview build of the operating system in the Experimental channel from version 26H2.

5. Better control over Windows Update

Windows Update has improved significantly over the past few years, but I still think users deserve more control over when updates happen.

As part of the new improvements, the company is expanding the Windows Update controls, making it easier to schedule updates and pause installations when needed without (significantly) compromising security.

For example, you can now use a calendar-based setting to pause updates for up to 35 days, and you can pause as many times as you want.

The new setting is available through Settings > Windows Update.

In addition, the company is reducing monthly reboots to only one by aligning the install schedule for drivers, products, and firmware updates with the quality update.

Also, the settings page for updates now groups downloads under a single "Available updates" section, and drivers include clearer labels.

Furthermore, the power options in the Start menu now show independent commands to restart and shut down without installing updates.

While the calendar-based setting to pause updates is gradually rolling out through the July 2026 Security Update, this improvement will also be considered part of version 26H2.

6. Administrator Protection security feature

Security features rarely generate much excitement, but Administrator Protection is an exception.

The feature changes how the operating system handles administrator privileges by adding another layer of protection around elevated processes, making it more difficult for malicious software to gain unrestricted access to the system.

Administrator Protection works by creating a temporary account to execute the task and then deleting the account when the task is complete. This approach ensures that the administrator privileges are not persistent, making the system more secure.

This feature is expected to become available through the "Account protection" page in the Windows Security app.

One thing to note is that this feature will replace User Account Control and will use Windows Hello for authentication.

7. Run dialog with modern design

Microsoft is finally giving the Run dialog box a visual refresh.

The new interface adopts the design language of Windows 11, bringing rounded corners, improved spacing, and a cleaner overall layout that better matches the rest of the operating system.

It's also noticeably larger than the classic version. The expanded layout provides a wider input field for commands and introduces a "recent commands" section positioned above the text box, making it easier to reuse previously entered entries.

Another practical improvement is the ability to surface matching apps as you type, complete with their icons. It's a small but useful upgrade that helps bridge the gap between a simple command launcher and a more modern search-style experience.

What makes this change particularly interesting is that the company isn't forcing it on everyone, at least initially. The redesigned Run dialog will be optional, with a toggle available in Settings > System > Advanced under the "Run dialog" option, allowing users to switch between the classic and modern versions.

Windows 11 doesn't need another major redesign

I understand why some people look at Windows 11 version 26H2 and think it isn't a major release, especially since it installs as a small enablement package.

However, that view places too much emphasis on how the update is delivered rather than on what it actually includes.

Microsoft no longer waits for one big annual release to add new features. Instead, Windows 11 is updated continuously throughout the year. The annual update simply packages all of those changes into a new, supported version of the operating system.

That's why I'm looking forward to the Windows 11 2026 Update.

It will take only a few minutes to install. However, by the time it arrives, it will already include months of improvements across the system, from a redesigned Start menu and a more customizable Taskbar to better search, stronger security, improved Windows Update controls, and a more practical approach to AI.

Windows Central's Take

I think Windows 11 version 26H2 shows that Microsoft has finally settled into a better update strategy. (At least for the foreseeable future.) Instead of holding features back for one big annual release, the company is delivering improvements when they're ready and using the feature update to reset the support lifecycle. That may not be as exciting as the old days of massive releases, but it's a much better experience for people who actually use the operating system every day.

More importantly, I like the direction that the company is taking with many of these changes. The common theme isn't flashy AI features or another visual overhaul. It's giving users more control over how Windows 11 works, whether that's customizing the Start menu, moving the Taskbar, cleaning up Windows Search, or making Windows Update less intrusive.

Of course, not every feature will matter to everyone, and some may still change before the final release. However, if Microsoft follows through on what it's testing today, I think 26H2 could end up being one of the most practical Windows 11 updates yet, even if it arrives as nothing more than a small enablement package.

What are your thoughts on some of the expected features coming as part of the 2026 Update for Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

On Windows 11, even though the operating system is designed to use all the memory installed on your computer, you can limit how much RAM the operating system uses if you need to test software, troubleshoot issues, or simulate a lower-memory system.

However, the system doesn't include a simple setting to tell it to "only use 4GB of RAM." Instead, you have to use the legacy System Configuration tool (msconfig), which is intended primarily for testing and debugging.

In this how-to guide, I'll outline the steps to restrict the amount of memory that Windows 11 can use.

⚠️Important: This setting limits the amount of memory available to the entire operating system. It's not meant for everyday use because it can significantly reduce performance and cause some apps to run slowly or stop responding. You have been warned.

How to limit the system RAM on Windows 11

To restrict the amount of memory available to Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for System Configuration (or msconfig) and click the top result to open the app.
3. Click the Boot tab.
4. Select the current Windows installation (if applicable).
5. Click the Advanced options button.

6. Check the Maximum memory option.
7. Confirm the amount of memory you want Windows 11 to use (in megabytes).

• Quick tip: Since you have to enter a value in megabytes, use 4096 (4GB), 8192 (8GB), 16384 (16GB), or 32768 (32GB).

8. Click the OK button.
9. Click the Apply button.
10. Click the OK button.
11. Restart the computer.

After you complete the steps, Windows 11 will only use the amount of memory you specified. Any remaining installed RAM will be ignored until you remove the restriction.

While I was testing this configuration, I noticed that Task Manager reported 3GB when I set the memory to 4GB, because the operating system doesn't get the full 4GB, as part of the physical address space is reserved for other components.

If your goal is to test the operating system with exactly 4 GB available, you may want to reserve an extra 1GB. For example, 5120 (5GB) to see 4GB in Task Manager. However, depending on how much memory you want to allocate, you may want to try different sizes.

How to restore full RAM access on Windows 11

To restore the amount of memory available to Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for System Configuration (or msconfig) and click the top result to open the app.
3. Click the Boot tab.
4. Select the current Windows installation (if applicable).
5. Click the Advanced options button.

6. Clear the Maximum memory option.

7. Click the OK button.
8. Click the Apply button.
9. Click the OK button.
10. Restart the computer.

Once you complete the steps, the operating system will once again detect and use all available RAM.

Why would you limit RAM?

This feature is primarily intended for testing rather than everyday use. Some common scenarios include testing how an app performs with limited memory, troubleshooting memory-related software issues, simulating older or lower-end hardware, and software development.

For instance, we recently tested out how using 8GB of RAM on Windows 11 in 2026 works for performance.

If your goal is to reduce overall memory usage or free up RAM, it's better to turn off unnecessary startup apps, close background applications, or upgrade your system instead of limiting the operating system's available memory.

Why can't you set the maximum memory?

On some modern computers, particularly those using UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled, the "Maximum memory" setting may be unavailable or ignored.

If this happens, you may need to temporarily disable Secure Boot before applying the memory limit.

⚠️Warning: Disabling Secure Boot lowers your computer's protection against boot-level malware and may prevent some security features from working as expected. Only disable Secure Boot temporarily if you're testing, and re-enable it afterward.

Disable Secure Boot

To disable Secure Boot, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the Recovery page.
4. Click the Restart now button under the "Advanced startup" section.

5. Click the Restart now button one more time.
6. Click on Troubleshoot.
7. Click on Advanced options.
8. Click the "UEFI Firmware settings" option.

9. Click the Restart button.
10. Open the advanced settings page for your motherboard.
11. Select the "Secure Boot" option, then choose the "Disabled" option.

After you complete the steps, restart the device, then configure the "Maximum memory" setting in System Configuration (msconfig).

Enable Secure Boot

Before proceeding, make sure to restore the memory settings from the System Configuration settings, and then to enable Secure Boot, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the Recovery page.
4. Click the Restart now button under the "Advanced startup" section.

5. Click the Restart now button one more time.
6. Click on Troubleshoot.
7. Click on Advanced options.
8. Click the "UEFI Firmware settings" option.

9. Click the Restart button.
10. Open the advanced settings page for your motherboard.
11. Select the "Secure Boot" option, then choose the "Enabled" option.

Once you complete the steps, Secure Boot will be enabled on your computer.

FAQs for limiting RAM usage on Windows 11

These are common questions about the process for limiting memory usage in Windows 11.

Windows Central's Take

I've used the Maximum memory option in MSConfig before, but it's one of those features that is easy to overlook because it's not intended as a consumer setting. For developers, network administrators, and anyone who writes about this operating system, though, it's a surprisingly useful way to test how a device behaves on lower-end hardware without physically removing memory or creating a separate virtual machine.

That said, I wouldn't recommend using this to "save RAM" or improve performance. Windows 11 is designed to manage memory efficiently, and artificially limiting it can only slow the system.

It's also another reminder that many of the most useful troubleshooting tools are still buried inside decades-old utilities like msconfig. Microsoft continues to modernize the operating system, but some of the diagnostic features remain hidden in legacy tools.

What are your thoughts about using MSConfig to limit RAM on Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Leaked materials from 2024 have revealed that Microsoft has built a working prototype Copilot OS that is platform agnostic, derived from the Microsoft Edge web browser and runs on top of Windows or Android, focused on the web and agentic experiences.

This project is codenamed Aion, and while its status is currently unknown, the leaked materials confirm that such a project was in active development and reached a stage in which the code was functional. With all the material leaked, we have a pretty good idea about how this OS experience looked and functioned.

According to the leaked materials, Aion is a UI shell built entirely with web tech, using a modified version of the Edge web browser. The interface is Edge, but altered to include desktop-like interfaces and functionality such as a Start menu, Taskbar, and cascading windows.

The documents confirm that Aion was capable of running on top of Windows 11 as a desktop shell replacement, or on AOSP Android. There's also a third compatible OS mentioned called Win3, which sources say was a special modified version of the Windows codebase with less legacy cruft, resulting in a lighter OS experience with faster boot times, longer battery life, and better security at the expense of legacy app support.

Aion seemingly wasn't compatible with legacy Windows apps, with the leaked video mentioning it only running web apps and websites, with tight Windows 365 integration for when users need access to a legacy Windows experience.

The Aion interface was built around Copilot and agentic AI experiences. It features a familiar looking Taskbar along the bottom of the interface, where the system tray and running apps appear. It also features a Start menu, except this time it's powered by Copilot and features a Copilot icon instead of a Windows one.

The Copilot Start menu is where users go to begin tasks, browse the web, or open web apps. The entire interface is built around Copilot, with users interacting with the OS via a multi-modal omnibox that can jumpstart tasks or workflows, find files, browse the web, initiate AI chat, and open web apps.

The new Start menu provides quick access to recent websites and files, and also groups recent activites into Spaces that let you launch multiple activities at once via a single click, curated by Copilot. Web apps will run in their own floating windows like real apps do on Windows, letting users cascade, minimize, and snap them.

The Spaces that Copilot curates also appear in the Taskbar when open. These appear as buckets, highlighted in a different color to let you know that these items are all being grouped together by the AI for picking up where you left off at a later point.

Because Aion only runs web apps, it's capable of understanding the context of everything you have open using Copilot. That means Copilot as an agent is capable of completing tasks on your behalf if asked by the user, and can answer any questions about the things that are open or were recently viewed at any time.

Aion also includes a feature that lets users complete tasks while staying in the flow of chat. For example, if the user wanted to send a summary of a web page to a friend or colleague via email, users could simply ask Copilot to do that, and the agent would pull in an email draft and let the user check it over and send it without ever leaving the Copilot chat interface.

It's unclear if Project Aion is ever intended to ship, or if it'll remain an internal experiment never to see the light of day. So far, we've not seen any official confirmation that a Copilot OS is going ahead. Microsoft recently announced Project Solara, an agentic OS that runs on Windows and Android codebases that utilizes a just-in-time UI approach to generate experiences on the fly.

While not the same, perhaps Microsoft has opted to go in a different direction for its agentic OS vision.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Despite decades of people calling for "the year of Linux," fresh data from Steam's Hardware Survey for June 2026 suggests Windows is still firmly the norm. Linux's market share fell by 0.30 percent to 3.69%. Yes, that's a relatively small decline, but considering Linux's smaller gains have often been celebrated, I think it's only fair to mention it. To keep things balanced, though, Linux is still well ahead of where it was this time last year, when it sat at just 2.57%.

Before we jump into what we all actually care about (Windows), macOS also saw a small increase, rising by 0.05 percent to 2.21%, up from 1.76% this time last year. I know rattling off percentages can get a little mind-numbing, but there are actually some genuinely interesting trends hiding in this month's data, so let's get into the Windows side of things, because that's where things get particularly interesting.

Looking at Steam's Hardware Survey for June 2026, Windows 11 climbed by another 0.68 percent, while Windows 10 declined by 0.43 points, showing a continued shift toward Windows 11. The modern OS now accounts for 70.44% of Steam users. It's hardly a dramatic jump, but it does suggest more PC gamers are choosing to move to Windows 11 rather than one of the growing number of Linux distro alternatives.

Is anyone calling it "The year of Windows 11"? That's what I'll be calling it for the foreseeable future — I jest, of course. Windows has its fair share of issues and gets plenty of deserved flak online, but Linux has given me a bad experience every time I've had the displeasure of trying it. Despite my frustrations with Windows, it typically does just work, Copilot shenanigans aside.

I always enjoy looking at these kinds of trends across the industry. There's something interesting about seeing what operating systems, hardware, and configurations people are actually using. Somehow, despite Microsoft seemingly shooting itself in the foot several hundred times over, people are still choosing Windows 11.

But let me know your thoughts. Is this really a sign of satisfaction with Windows 11, or are people simply being forced to upgrade as Windows 10 reaches the end of its life? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and as always, be sure to take part in our poll below:

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

A leaked video has revealed that Microsoft has explored building a dedicated AI OS powered by Microsoft Edge and a new lightweight Windows codebase called Win3. This exploration was codenamed Aion, and was built around web tech, placing Copilot at the heart of the experience.

The 3 minute video, which my sources say is real, was first leaked on Discord server BetaWiki and provides a handy walkthrough of what looks to be real (but early) working code, showcasing a new desktop UI that features a similar Taskbar along the bottom, Start menu-like interface powered by Copilot, and more.

"Aion is an example of a web-based agent OS that natively builds Copilot into the core of the shell," says the video's narrator. The entire experience is built around Copilot and a multi-modal input box, which is where users go find files, open apps, and browse the web.

The Taskbar includes a unique feature called "Spaces" that automatically groups your apps and sites into a bucket on the Taskbar that you can quickly return to at a later point. These spaces appear in the Start menu too, providing a one-click method of opening multiple things at once.

The video explains that Aion is built around the web, meaning it doesn't run native Windows apps. It only runs web apps and websites, leaning on Windows 365 to remote into a Cloud PC and stream desktop apps if the user needs access to one.

The video does mention that there's a version of Aion that also runs on top of Windows 11, which would presumably support running Windows apps natively. But the version in the video appears to be based on the Win3 version, which sources tell me is a stripped back version of the Windows codebase that does not include support for legacy Win32 apps in exchange for faster updates, longer battery life, and better security.

My sources also say this video is quite old, recorded sometime in 2024, and it's unclear if this was just a Hackathon project or something more. I understand that Aion was experimental in nature, designed to explore what a desktop UX is capable of if built from scratch around an agentic AI. That means it's unclear if Aion is something that Microsoft ever intends to ship.

With that said, it would be surprising if some of the lessons Microsoft has learned from the Aion project aren't already shaping the version of Windows shipping today. While I don't expect Aion to ship as depicted in the video above, agentic OS capabilities are already finding their way into Windows 11.

Microsoft has also recently announced Project Solara, an agentic OS experience that utilizes just-in-time UI to generate experiences as the user asks for it. It runs on both AOSP and Windows, similar to Aion. Perhaps Aion evolved into Solara?

Either way, this is a fascinating look at what what at least one team thought the future of desktop computing could be like with Copilot at the heart of the experience. Given the sheer backlash around Copilot in the last year or two, I wouldn't be surprised if Microsoft is already rethinking much of this.

Windows Central reached out to Microsoft for comment, but the company declined to provide one.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

On Windows 11, if GIFs suddenly disappeared from the emoji panel, the problem wasn't caused by a broken update. It was caused by a service the operating system depended on quietly going away.

Starting June 30, 2026, users on versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1 began seeing a "GIF service is not available" message after pressing the Windows key + . (period) keyboard shortcut to open the emoji panel. Microsoft has now confirmed the issue affects devices that haven't installed its latest optional update, which replaces Google's Tenor service with GIPHY.

Why this happened

This wasn't a traditional bug with the operating system. The emoji panel relied on the Tenor API to search and display animated GIFs, but Google retired that service on June 30. Once the API was switched off, Windows 11 had nowhere to retrieve GIFs, leaving the feature effectively offline.

"Starting June 30, 2026, install the latest Windows update to continue using GIFs in the Emoji panel. If you don't update, you will see a 'GIF service is not available' error in the panel," Microsoft explains.

Instead of restoring Tenor, the company moved to GIPHY before the shutdown. Microsoft included the change in the June 23 preview update for versions 25H2 and 24H2 (KB5095093) and for version 26H1 (KB5095091), allowing updated systems to continue displaying GIFs without interruption.

Why GIFs may look different

The fix also changes the experience. Since Windows 11 now pulls results from GIPHY instead of Tenor, searches may return different animations, rankings, and content for the same keywords. The feature works the same way, but the library behind it has changed.

How to restore GIFs

If you're seeing this error, you can restore the functionality by installing the latest quality update from Settings > Windows Update. If you're doing this before the Patch Tuesday update release, then turn on the "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available" toggle switch.

Once the update is installed, the emoji panel automatically switches to GIPHY, and no additional configuration is required.

This is a reminder that even built-in features increasingly depend on online services outside Microsoft's control. When one of those services disappears, a feature that looks native to the operating system can stop working overnight until Microsoft rewires it to something else.

Windows Central's Take

On Windows 11, when a core feature suddenly stops working, the default reaction is usually to assume Microsoft broke something in the latest update. However, after tracking updates for years, I've learned that the operating system is often (not always) just caught in the crossfire of third-party service changes.

In this case, the company handled the transition as smoothly as it could. Instead of leaving users stranded, they already had a replacement lined up, and installing the latest update fixes the issue immediately. Just keep in mind that since GIPHY is taking over for Tenor, your typical reaction GIFs might look a bit different from now on.

Have you noticed any changes to the GIFs in the Windows 11 emoji panel, or are you still seeing Tenor? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

A small change is on the way to Windows 11, but it will make a big difference to a select group of users. Windows Insiders can now test the option to make the taskbar smaller on Windows 11.

Windows 11's taskbar has always been controversial. Microsoft rebuilt the taskbar when creating the operating system, but the company did not include every feature from the Windows 10 taskbar.

As a result, options like being able to move the taskbar to the side or top of the screen never made it to Windows 11. Microsoft is addressing some of the most frequently shared complaints. Soon, you'll be able to move the taskbar and resize it. Progress!

Windows Insiders have been able to move the taskbar around since earlier this year, but until recently have had limited options for resizing it. Insider builds presented the option to "show smaller taskbar buttons" but enabling that feature only shrinks the buttons. The actual taskbar remains the same height.

Windows 11 Experimental Preview Build 26300.8758 adds a toggle to change the size of the taskbar. Switching the taskbar to "small" reduces the height of the taskbar and also enables smaller icons.

It's also possible to enable small icons while keeping the taskbar its default height.

Build 26300.8758: Changes

Taskbar

• Taskbar customization just got easier. As we continue to make improvements to the Taskbar experience mentioned last month, we've introduced a dedicated Taskbar Size setting, making it simpler to find, understand, and personalize your ideal taskbar experience.
• We've also made refinements to the transitions between taskbar sizes for a smoother overall experience.

File Explorer

• We've improved the reliability of thumbnail previews for cloud files in the Details pane. The pane has also been reorganized so file properties are easier to find and review at a glance.
• Fixed an issue where the OneDrive shortcut in File Explorer stops working when File Explorer is run in administrative mode.
• Fixed an issue where the confirmation dialog might display an internal Recycle Bin file name instead of the original file name when permanently deleting a file.

Sounds

• Improved system sounds when using Windows in dark mode.

Microsoft released a bunch of builds recently, but most of them were rather minor. An unnoted change is that Xbox mode is now called XBOX mode.

An initiative to improve Windows 11 known as Windows K2 will include changes large and small. Microsoft plans to address serious "pain points" across Windows 11. Performance, design, and reliability are all being worked on by the tech giant.

Tiny details like taskbar resizing help Windows 11 feel more polished and personalized.

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June is closing out, making it a good moment to recap the latest Windows 11 changes Microsoft delivered in the second half of the month. While there are no headline-grabbing feature drops, the updates continue to refine the overall experience with a steady set of improvements across the system. Microsoft also confirmed active development of Windows 11 version 26H2, the next major release on the roadmap.

During the final two weeks of June, preview builds in the Experimental channel transitioned their versioning from 25H2 to 26H2, signaling the formal shift toward the next development cycle.

At the same time, Taskbar customization gained more flexibility, allowing users to adjust its size independently of button scaling, offering finer control over the desktop layout.

Meanwhile, the Future Platforms channel received a broader set of enhancements, including Screen tint, reduced reboot requirements for Windows Update, improved Magnifier zoom options, and refinements across Personalization, Storage, and Audio settings.

In the Experimental channel, we've seen builds 29617, 28120.2374, 26300.8758, 28120.2315, and 26300.8697. In the Beta channel, the company released builds 26220.8754, 28020.2366, 28020.2308, and 26220.8690.

In this recap, I'll highlight the latest and most noteworthy changes available through the Windows Insider Program.

Biggest improvements from the Windows Insider Program in June 2026

These are the most significant changes Microsoft has unveiled since my last roundup.

Windows 11 version 26H2

Although it's not a feature, starting with build 26300.8697 in the Experimental experience, Microsoft officially changed the version number from 25H2 to 26H2.

You will find the change in Settings > System > About, under the "Windows Info" section. Also, the version number can be found when running the "winver" command. However, the "Windows Insider Program" still reports this channel as "Windows 11, version 25H2."

This means that everything that the company makes available in the Experimental channel will become part of the version 26H2.

However, another point to note is that versions 25H2 and 26H2 share the same core file system, meaning that even though the company has announced the development of the new version, virtually all the changes intended for version 26H2 will also be available for version 25H2.

Privacy & security page redesign

Build 26300.8697 also updates the "Privacy & security" page with a new header that includes an entry point to the Windows Security app and a glance at details for various features, including location, camera, and microphone features.

On the rest of the page, the development team is also reorganizing the items into new sections, including "Your info," "Communication," "File access," and "System."

Other new entry points include "Custom Dictionary" and "Passkeys."

Although it's not officially available, it has been found that on the "Search" page, Microsoft is updating the "Show suggested results" setting to include options to disable web searches and Microsoft Store apps from search results in the Windows Search feature.

Mobile Devices changes

As part of the change for version 26H1, in the Beta and Experimental channels, builds 28120.2374 and 28020.2366 update the Mobile Devices page in the Settings app and add the ability to configure and manage mobile devices.

Emoji panel changes

Also, in version 26H1, the company is changing the GIF provider to GIPHY, replacing the Tenor API to improve the experience for browsing and sharing GIFs.

Taskbar resize option

Microsoft also made available build 26300.8758 for version 26H2, which updates the Taskbar settings with a new dedicated option to make the Taskbar smaller.

The setting is called "Taskbar size," and it features two options, including "Default" and "Small."

If you use the "Small" option, this action turns off the "Show smaller app icons" feature.

The description under the "Automatically hide the taskbar" option is also new in this release.

Sounds in dark mode

This isn't a flashy improvement, but it's worth pointing out that build 26300.8758 improves system sounds when using the system dark mode.

XBOX branding

In the Gaming section, the Xbox mode page is being rebranded to "XBOX mode" as the company refreshes the brand based on feedback.

Screen tint new feature

On Windows 11 build 29617 for the Future Platforms version, Microsoft introduced a new accessibility feature called "Screen tint." It's a system-wide color overlay designed to reduce eye strain and soften overly bright or saturated displays.

Unlike the Night Light feature, which primarily reduces blue light for nighttime use, Screen tint changes the overall intensity and color tone of the display during the day. The software giant notes that the two features solve different problems and can work together.

The feature is available in Settings > Accessibility > Vision > Screen tint, with six preset tint colors and an option to create a custom color.

In addition, you can also adjust the intensity with the available slider. However, one thing to point out is that enabling Screen tint disables Color Filters, and vice versa.

Magnifier new zoom controls

The Magnifier feature is receiving several enhancements for the Future Platforms version.

For instance, it's now possible to enter a specific zoom percentage directly in the interface instead of repeatedly clicking the zoom-in and zoom-out buttons.

Also, in the Magnifier settings, you can now find additional zoom presets, including 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 400 percent.

Personalization changes

The company has also improved the personalization experience by enhancing the accuracy of automatic accent color selection. This allows the operating system to better match the chosen accent color to the colors in your desktop wallpaper.

In addition, Microsoft has fixed a problem to improve how background images are preserved across restarts and upgrades.

These improvements are already available in other channels, but they won't arrive in the Future Platforms version until build 29617.

Windows Central's Take

I like the direction Microsoft is taking with these Insider builds. There isn't a single feature that completely changes how I use Windows 11, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Some of the best updates are the ones that quietly make the operating system more polished over time. A dedicated Taskbar size setting, a cleaner "Privacy & security" page, and accessibility improvements may not grab headlines. However, they're the kinds of refinements people notice after using the operating system every day.

The official move to version 26H2 is also significant. Based on Microsoft's recent release strategy, I expect the next feature update to focus more on improving what already exists than on introducing major new experiences. If that's the case, I'd much rather see the company continue investing in performance, consistency, and usability than chase flashy features that don't solve real problems.

Of course, these are still preview builds, so I wouldn't recommend installing them on a primary computer unless you're comfortable testing unfinished preview builds.

What do you think about these latest Windows 11 changes? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has issued a warning to all Windows 11 Home and Pro users still running the now two year old 24H2 release that support for this version of the OS is ending in just a few months.

All new versions of Windows 11 ship with a support window that lasts 24 months for consumers and 36 months for commercial customers. As 24H2 first launched in 2024, it's now coming to the end of its support window for consumers.

"Windows 11, version 24H2 Home and Pro editions will reach end of updates on October 13, 2026," Microsoft says in a recent update changelog. "Devices running these editions will no longer receive fixes for known issues, time zone updates, technical support, or monthly security and preview updates containing protections from the latest security threats."

The good news is everyone running 24H2 today should be fully compatible with 25H2, which is the current shipping version of Windows 11 and fully supported, based on the exact same codebase as 24H2. In fact, they're so similar, the 25H2 upgrade is very small and comes with no compatibility issues or complex update processes. It's essentially the flip of a switch.

That's the easiest fix for those still on 24H2 and worried about losing support. Once you upgrade to 25H2, you'll be fully supported once more until October 2027. If you want to wait until October this year, you can jump straight to 26H2 when that begins rolling out in the fall.

25H2 and the upcoming 26H2 release are based on the same platform release as 24H2, codenamed Germanium. This means the underlying OS doesn't change between the releases, only surface level features and changes are present between them. If you've been hanging onto 24H2 because you're worried about the upgrade breaking anything, there's really nothing to be concerned about. 25H2 is basically 24H2 part 2.

For commercial customers, there's not anything to worry about just yet. Windows 11 version 24H2 for commercial customers will continue to be supported until October 12, 2027, so over a year to go before those devices will need to be updated.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Last week, Microsoft quietly announced that it will extend support for Windows 10 through 2027, even though the operating system officially reached the end of support on October 14, 2025. Initially, the company had planned to offer just one additional year of updates under its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, but the new decision gives Windows 10 a longer lifeline.

However, critics and groups like The Restart Project, which helped co-develop the "End of 10" toolkit to support Windows 10 users who can't upgrade to Windows 11, claimed that Microsoft's move to continue pushing security updates to Windows 10 beyond its end-of-support feels like a last-minute snooze button, which only acts as a band-aid on a bleeding system.

They argued that the move would force up to 400 million working PCs into early retirement, prompting many users to brand it as programmed obsolescence rather than anything else. It also seems like an outright, blatant attempt designed to make users transition to Windows 11.

However, if previous complaints lodged are anything to go by — Microsoft's stringent hardware requirements for the operating system, coupled with arguments of flawed design elements, including unnecessary AI and Copilot integrations, will only widen the digital divide, making the jump even harder.

Currently, users enrolled in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will continue receiving critical security patches for one additional year, extending coverage beyond the original end-of-support date of October 14, 2025, through October 14, 2026.

Windows 10

As highlighted in the poll results, a clear majority of participants (68%) indicated they plan to continue running Windows 10 on their devices following Microsoft’s support extension. Interestingly, 19% of respondents said they have already upgraded to Windows 11, highlighting a smaller but notable shift toward the newer operating system.

Granted, only 321 people voted, so we need to take the results with a pinch of salt.

If you are still running Windows 10 on your PC, you can take advantage of the extended lifeline by enrolling in the ESU program for free by signing in with a Microsoft account, or pay for access via 1,000 Microsoft reward points or $30.

Last week, I wrote an article attempting to capture the overall sentiment from the community and tech enthusiasts following Microsoft's decision to extend support for Windows 10 through 2027. It quickly became apparent to me that many people are still running Windows 10 on their devices, with some outrightly calling for Microsoft to extend Windows 10's shelf life to 2028 because 2027 won't cut it.

The conversation about alternative operating systems like Linux also popped up. According to an avid Windows Central reader:

"Linux has gotten way better, and perhaps with some install help it does everything the common folks want to do (read: not gamers or others reliant on some very specific tailored app).

The way Microsoft has been talking about their future makes every conscious consumer know this is only the beginning, and regular os subscription payments, more surveillance etc is coming.

I might buy win 11 based pc in the future when the current one stops working, but I already know it will run Linux just fine, so MS has opened Pandora's box.

Though frankly I'm surprised MS cares so much. corporate world has been their sole focus for over a decade, and they still have a good stranglehold there. ofc one piece of wisdom might be that if people use Linux at home, eventually they'll start asking why we are using MS products at work. We are used to Linux and more competent with apps there."

"What they are admitting is that they are afraid of letting part the 25% Windows base go for Linux or worse, to become botnets for cybercrime after they get infected for lack of security patches, creating havoc," another reader added.

Some users came up with interesting ideas, painting a picture where Microsoft continues to support Windows 10 and Windows 11 simultaneously.

While it seems inevitable for users to eventually upgrade to Windows 11, the current RAM crisis due to AI's heavy appetite for computing power isn't making the jump any easier, as hardware prices are steadily increasing and becoming unaffordable for most people. According to another Windows Central reader:

"That people don't have the money to upgrade at today's prices.

Let's not make too much of this: MS OSes have always run a bit ahead of entry level hardware and conversely, people have always stayed with trailing edge software longer than safe. There are probably still people running Windows XP out there.

The security rationale of W11 over W10 can be debated but in the end, everybody will have to upgrade the hardware...

...when they can afford it. At least MS is being understanding that it's not just parsimony holding people back."

That said, it will be interesting to see if Microsoft will continue to hold its massive dominance in the desktop landscape with Windows.

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On October 14, 2025, Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10, despite widespread pleas from millions of users still relying on the operating system. The move risked leaving nearly 400 million PCs without updates, effectively rendering them obsolete. However, Microsoft ultimately extended Windows 10’s lifespan through its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, giving users continued access to critical patches beyond the end-of-support date.

The Restart Project group, which helped co-develop the "End of 10" toolkit to support Windows 10 users who can't upgrade to Windows 11, claimed that Microsoft's move to continue pushing security updates to Windows 10 beyond its end-of-support feels like a last-minute snooze button, which only acts as a band-aid on a bleeding system.

It's no secret that Microsoft has been pushing users to upgrade to Windows 11, but soaring RAM prices have driven hardware costs sky-high, making the transition even more difficult. This is on top of the operating system's strict hardware requirements and arguments of flawed design elements.

In France, critics even staged a symbolic “funeral” for Windows 10, protesting Microsoft’s push toward Windows 11 and what they see as planned obsolescence. Yet, as recent developments suggest, the company may finally be listening.

Microsoft quietly extended Windows 10's ESU program by another year. As a result, users enrolled in the program will continue receiving support until October 14, 2027. The extension is free for those who sign in to Windows 10 with a Microsoft account, ensuring critical updates remain available beyond the original cutoff.

What does the community think about Windows 10's extended lifeline?

"People might start switching to Linux and using open source software for replacements if this RAM/storage issue doesn't get resolved in the next year," a Windows Central reader indicated.

Groups like End of 10 have been pushing users to transition to Linux following Windows 10's end-of-life. The campaign encourages steadfast Windows 10 users to ditch the Windows ecosystem entirely and switch to a version of Linux on any outdated devices, using a lack of ads and telemetry tracking as the key selling points to get users to switch camps.

"I said a year ago that this was going to happen, and I'll say it again, it's going to happen next year too," another reader added. "Windows 10 will be supported till October 2028. This has nothing to do with prices. This was planned since the beginning. But like last year, Microsoft did not say until late this was happening for free, so that people did not plan accordingly and as many as possible move to 11. Same this time. Same next year."

"Windows 10 to Windows 11 is like when you need new running shoes, but Nike discontinued the kind you’ve been buying new versions of for years, and the other kinds are fine but don’t measure up," another user commented in the r/technology subreddit on Reddit. "So you’re like “f*** it, I’ll just wear these until they fall apart.”

For context, a recent HP survey found that 3 out of 10 HP PCs are still running Windows 10. This was a slight decrease from September 2025, when HP and Dell indicated that up to 50% of PCs were still running on the operating system, prompting the PC makers to suggest that users won't upgrade to Windows 11 overnight, and the process could even roll over into 2026.

Some even claimed that Microsoft's decision to extend Windows 10's support beyond 2026 is an outright admission that it's better than Windows 11. "So are they finally admitting that Windows 11 isn't good enough almost 5 years later?"

To that end, it remains unclear how Microsoft extending support for Windows 10 via its ESU program to 2027 will impact Windows 11's market share. The operating system had just started gaining some momentum and even surpassed Windows 10 as the most dominant desktop operating system in the world in July, 2025.

In the interim, you can take advantage of Microsoft's extended support for Windows 10 by enrolling in the ESU program for free by signing in with a Microsoft account, or pay for access via 1,000 Microsoft reward points or $30.

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Microsoft plans to begin the Windows 11 July 2026 Security Update on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. In this seventh month of the year, the company is rolling out several new features and improvements for existing features. In addition, this update is expected to deliver a number of bug fixes.

In this new quality update, Microsoft will be introducing brand new features, including the Point-in-time Restore recovery feature and the Screen tint accessibility feature.

This release also introduces the new Windows Update changes that allow users to pause updates indefinitely. The Widgets feature receives a few changes to make the experience quieter and less distracting.

Furthermore, in this release, users will also find changes to the Windows Magnifier, a new default for installing printers using Windows Ready Print support, as well as improvements to the Settings app, File Explorer, Bluetooth, network virtualization, touchpad, and much more.

In this guide, I'll highlight the most significant changes in the July 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, since both are identical.

Windows 11's new features arriving in July

As per usual, the company uses the Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) technology to roll out new improvements gradually, so it may take some time before you see them.

Point-in-time Restore recovery feature

Starting with the July 2026 Security Update, Microsoft is introducing Point-in-time Restore, a new recovery feature designed to quickly roll back a system to a previous good working state.

The feature works automatically and creates restore points that include settings, files, and apps using the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS), allowing you to recover your computer when an issue arises.

Point-in-time Restore comes enabled by default in the Home and Pro editions of the operating system. However, the system must have at least 200GB of storage.

You can always control the feature in Settings > System > Recovery by using the "View or edit" button. On the page, you can turn the recovery feature on or off, configure the restore point frequency and retention, and decide how much storage the feature uses.

At the bottom, the feature will also notice the most recent restore points.

If something is working correctly, you can always access the feature from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), and from the "Point-in-time Restore" page, select the restore point to recover your device.

Screen tint accessibility feature

In this update, the company is also rolling out Screen tint. This accessibility feature applies an overlay color on the screen designed to reduce eye strain and improve viewing comfort.

The feature is available in Settings > Accessibility > Screen tint. Once enabled, you can choose from one of the six preset color overlays or create a custom color.

In addition, there is a slider to control the overlay strength.

While the Screen tint feature seems similar to the Night Light feature, they are different, and they can work alongside each other. However, this feature automatically turns off Color filters and vice versa.

Windows Update new controls

Windows Update is getting a major upgrade. In this release, Microsoft is adding the ability to pause updates indefinitely, which seems to be the closest we'll get to completely turning off automatic updates.

As part of the changes, the "Pause updates" option now includes a calendar view that lets you pause automatic updates for up to 35 days. However, you can re-pause updates as many times as you want.

The only caveat is that if you want to postpone updates for more than 35 days, you'll need to manually pause them again. Otherwise, the system will download and install updates automatically as soon as the scheduled expiration expires.

Widgets with less distracting defaults

The company is trying to make the experience quieter and less distracting.

Widgets now open directly to the dashboard on first use, with hover activation disabled and notifications and Taskbar badges minimized by default.

The experience also offers more control over notifications and personalization settings, allowing users to customize Widgets from the Settings menu.

The dashboard icons can display the number of alerts, while badges clear automatically after leaving the dashboard. Microsoft notes that some settings will continue to adapt based on usage patterns to help limit interruptions.

This update also includes improvements to reliability, responsiveness, and overall visual quality across the Widgets experience.

Windows Magnifier improvements

In a continued effort to improve accessibility features, the software giant is also updating the Magnifier with more granular controls, allowing you to enter exact percentage values rather than having to use the zoom buttons to increase or decrease the zoom level.

Also, in the settings flyout, the zoom adjustment now allows users to set increments up to 400 percent.

Printer default changes

Starting with the quality update for July 2026, the operating system will install printers by default using the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP), provided the device is supported.

If you prefer to revert this configuration, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, and turn off the "Default install printer using Windows Ready Print" option.

Location settings improvements

Microsoft is making location settings easier to understand in Settings > Privacy & Security > Location.

When location services are turned off, options such as "Default location" and "Allow location override" no longer appear active, since apps and services cannot access location data.

As a result, these settings will now be greyed out until location services are enabled, helping clarify when the options are available and reducing confusion.

File Explorer improvements

After installing this quality update, you'll notice that File Explorer will launch faster thanks to new speed improvements.

Also, on the Home page, when hovering over files, users who are logged in with a work or school account should now see options like "Open file location" and "Ask Copilot."

In addition, the address bar now supports paths with double backslashes and quotation marks, making it easier to paste or type folder paths from different sources.

Continuing with the improvements to the address bar, the experience now closes more reliably after selecting an option. Finally, File Explorer improves its ability to rename files.

Bluetooth changes

Microsoft is rolling out a series of Bluetooth improvements focused on reliability, compatibility, and audio performance.

For example, Windows 11 now keeps the microphone mute status synchronized between the system audio controls and Bluetooth headphones that include dedicated mute buttons or indicators, providing a more consistent experience during calls.

The update also improves compatibility with certain audio accessories. For instance, AirPods should enter pairing mode faster, and Beats Studio Pro headphones should offer more reliable microphone performance.

Voice calls on devices that support the Hands-Free Profile (HFP) should be more reliable. LE Audio accessories can begin playing audio faster while the microphone is active, and Windows 11 stability has been improved for some systems affected by Bluetooth-related driver issues.

The operating system will no longer incorrectly display a "Remove failed" message when a Bluetooth device cannot be removed because the Bluetooth radio is unavailable or has changed since the device was paired.

In addition, the "Bluetooth & devices" settings page has been updated to provide a more stable and consistent experience.

Connection reliability has also been enhanced. Classic Bluetooth audio devices can reconnect more quickly after a computer resumes from hibernation. At the same time, LE Audio accessories should maintain more reliable connections when switching between devices and recover more smoothly from temporary disconnections.

Phone Link improvements

Microsoft is improving how phone calls are handled between Windows 11 and a connected smartphone through Phone Link.

When you place a call from your paired phone, the audio will stay on the phone while it rings, then switch to the computer only after you answer the call on Windows 11.

This change helps prevent audio from switching between devices unexpectedly before the call connects.

The update also improves the "Do Not Disturb" experience. When Do Not Disturb is enabled, incoming calls from a connected phone will no longer ring through the computer, reducing interruptions while you're working.

Voice Typing and Voice Access

As you speak, Voice Typing and Voice Access can now refine the text in real time. In addition, the feature improves its capability to adapt to background noise. However, this is only available for Copilot+ PCs.

Furthermore, Voice Access and Voice Typing are now available in German, Spanish, and French.

Networking changes

The software giant is introducing several networking improvements focused on reliability, performance, and virtualization.

For virtualized environments, Confidential Virtual Machines (CVMs) now use SR-IOV hardware acceleration by default to improve network performance. At the same time, a networking configuration issue affecting nested Hyper-V setups has been fixed to ensure virtual machines are provisioned correctly.

The update also enhances the reliability of the networking stack. It reduces some Wi-Fi-related blue screen errors, improves cellular (WWAN) connectivity, and adds better support for IPv6-based VPN connections.

In addition, Microsoft has improved compatibility with certain third-party VPN solutions and server configurations that use SR-IOV networking. Network adapter settings and bindings are now also preserved during operating system upgrades, helping prevent networking configurations from being reset after an operating system update.

Touchpad changes

If you use a compatible touchpad, there's a touchpad customization option that lets you adjust the size of the bottom-right right-click area.

In Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad, you can choose between "Default," "Small," "Medium," or "Large" to control how much of the touchpad responds to a one-finger right-click.

This feature is available only on devices with a pressable touchpad surface. If your computer manufacturer provides touchpad customization through its own software, the system will display a "Custom" option to reflect those settings.

Windows Central's Take

I find it interesting that one of the biggest additions in this update is a feature designed to help when Windows 11 breaks rather than when everything is working perfectly.

Microsoft has spent the last few years talking a lot about AI, Copilot, and new experiences, but Point-in-time Restore addresses a much more fundamental problem. Every user eventually runs into a bad update, problematic driver, or software conflict. When that happens, recovery tools suddenly become far more important than whatever new feature was added to the Start menu.

The Windows Update changes also stand out to me because they give users a little more breathing room. The software giant clearly isn't interested in letting people permanently turn off updates, but repeatedly extending the pause period feels like a practical compromise between security and user control.

As for the rest of the update, I see it as evidence that Microsoft is continuing to chip away at long-standing annoyances. Faster File Explorer performance, Bluetooth reliability improvements, and less intrusive Widgets aren't headline-grabbing changes. However, they're often the updates that have the biggest impact on how the system feels after months of daily use.

Which feature in the July 2026 update are you most looking forward to trying on Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has quietly announced that Windows 10's extended support updates program will continue for an extra year, now until October 2027 for free if you sign-in to Windows 10 with a Microsoft account.

Originally, Windows 10's extended support program was only supposed to last one year, until October 2026 for consumers. However, a new support page published by Microsoft today has confirmed that the Windows 10 ESU program will now last until October 2027 instead.

"Windows 10 support has ended. You can enroll in ESU any time until the programme ends on 12 October, 2027. If you’re already enrolled, your coverage will automatically continue through that date—no action needed," says the support page.

All Windows 10 users that are already enrolled in the ESU program will get this extended year of updates automatically. You can enroll in the program for free by signing in with a Microsoft account, or pay for access via 1,000 Microsoft reward points or $30 USD.

Microsoft has likely extended support for Windows 10 by an extra year due to the ongoing RAM crisis, which has pushed new PC prices through the roof making them difficult to justify financially, especially if you already have a working Windows 10 PC.

There are still hundreds of millions of PCs running Windows 10, and with extended support originally ending this October, many people would have been without the latest security patches keeping their devices secure.

The Windows 10 ESU program is vital to ensuring a PC that is connected to the internet is secure. Microsoft is still updating Windows 10 with security patches through the ESU program, and not being enrolled leaves your device open to attackers that might be trying to exploit vulnerabilities in the Windows 10 OS.

The good news is if you're already enrolled in the program, there's nothing you need to do to remain supported until October 2027. Your PC will keep getting security updates automatically until that date.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Windows 11 brings major changes to the Start menu and Taskbar in 2026, finally giving users more control over customization.

Microsoft spent the first years of Windows 11 simplifying the Start menu and Taskbar, often at the expense of features that users had relied on for years. In 2026, the company is correcting its direction.

In recent preview builds, the operating system has revealed a growing list of improvements that bring more customization and control back to the experience. From Taskbar positioning and resizing to Start menu layouts and recommendation controls, the software giant is restoring capabilities that many users have been complaining about since the original release of Windows 11.

However, the company's approach isn't about recreating Windows 10. Instead, Microsoft is rebuilding these experiences around the design principles of Windows 11 while giving users more flexibility than they have today.

Microsoft is giving users more control over the Taskbar

The biggest change is the reversal of positioning controls. Users will once again be able to place the Taskbar to the top, left, right, or bottom edge of the screen.

For many users, this feature never should have disappeared in the first place. The ability to place the Taskbar where it works best has been part of the operating system for decades.

At the same time, the company isn't restoring the exact Windows 10 experience. Previously, users could unlock the Taskbar and drag it directly to a different edge of the screen, or change its position through the Settings app. On Windows 11, changing the position requires using the option available through the Settings app, more specifically in the Taskbar settings under the "Taskbar behaviors" section.

Taskbar sizing is also making a comeback. However, the company is updating the "Show smaller taskbar buttons" option so that enabling it makes the buttons and Taskbar smaller, not just the buttons.

The feature improves flexibility, but it still doesn't offer the same freedom available on Windows 10, where users could manually resize the Taskbar and even create multi-row layouts.

The Start menu is finally becoming more customizable

The Start menu is being updated with some of the most significant improvements since the operating system's launch.

One of the biggest additions is support for different Start menu sizes. Instead of relying entirely on the automatic layout, users will be able to choose between different menu configurations based on their preferences.

You will find these settings on the updated "Start" page from the Settings app.

Microsoft is also introducing dedicated controls to show or hide sections such as Pinned, Recommended, and All apps. These changes address one of the most common complaints about the Start menu, which has often felt too limited compared to previous versions of the operating system.

The company is also separating recommendation settings from recent files and activity history. As a result, users will gain more granular control over what appears in the Start menu without affecting other parts of the operating system.

Privacy is also receiving attention, with a new option that lets users hide their account name and profile picture from the Start menu.

These changes reflect a broader shift in Microsoft's strategy

The Start menu and Taskbar updates are part of Microsoft's wider Windows K2 initiative, an effort focused on improving performance, reliability, and usability across Windows 11.

While much of that work happens behind the scenes, the Start menu and Taskbar provide visible evidence that Microsoft's priorities have evolved since 2021.

When this version of Windows launched, the company emphasized simplicity and consistency, even when it meant removing long-standing customization features. A lot of users felt those decisions made the operating system less flexible than Windows 10.

The changes expected to roll out in 2026 suggest Microsoft is rethinking and taking a more balanced approach. Rather than limiting customization in the name of simplicity, the company is finding ways to offer more control while preserving the modern design introduced on Windows 11.

Windows 11 is becoming a more flexible operating system

Microsoft's reinstatement of Taskbar positioning and sizing, Start menu layouts, and recommendation controls may not seem revolutionary on their own. However, these changes represent one of the most notable shifts.

The company is not abandoning its vision for Windows 11, nor is it trying to turn the operating system into Windows 10. Instead, the company is acknowledging that flexibility remains one of the operating system's greatest strengths.

For years, many of the conversations around Windows 11 focused on features that were removed. In 2026, the conversation is increasingly focused on the features Microsoft is bringing back and what that says about the operating system's future direction.

Windows Central's Take

I think the most interesting part of these Start menu and Taskbar changes isn't any individual feature. It's what they reveal about Microsoft's evolving approach to Windows 11.

When the operating system launched in 2021, the software giant removed a noticeable amount of customization in favor of simplicity. The Taskbar lost positioning and resizing controls, and the Start menu became significantly more limited compared to Windows 10. At the time, those choices felt deliberate, almost like a firm design reset.

In 2026, that direction looks less fixed. The reintroduction of Taskbar positioning and resizing options, along with more granular Start menu controls, suggests Microsoft is recalibrating how much flexibility the operating system should offer without undoing its modern design language.

What are your thoughts on the Start menu and Taskbar changes coming to Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Recovering your Windows 11 PC just got easier. This week, Microsoft rolled out point-in-time restore for Windows 11 to general users. The feature creates restore points automatically that you can revert to if there's an issue with your computer.

Point-in-time restore is available to Enterprise, Pro, and Home users of Windows 11. According to Microsoft, the feature can recover a PC in minutes rather than hours.

When you have Point-in-time restore enabled, the feature automatically captures the system state of your PC, including Windows, installed apps, system and app configurations, settings, and your local files.

By default, restore points are captured every 24 hours, but you can configure that to a different cadence if you're an Enterprise user.

The feature is on by default on Windows Home and Windows Pro devices as long as they are not under enterprise management. Point-in-time restore is off by default for some enterprise-managed systems until Windows 11 version 26H2 is installed.

If a PC has an OS volume size under 200GB, point-in-time restore will be disabled by default.

Microsoft already had other features that are somewhat similar, such as System Restore and point-in-time restore for Windows 365 Enterprise. But both of those have key differences when compared to point-in-time restore for Windows 11.

System Restore requires manual capture of an image and does not include user files as part of the restore point. It's also accessible through the Control Panel rather than system settings and takes up more space on your PC.

Point-in-time restore for Windows 11 also provides benefits to IT admins, since the feature can be remotely managed with a wide set of controls.

Point-in-time for Windows 365 Enterprise is for Cloud PCs. It's also limited to Enterprise users.

Over two million devices had point-in-time restore enabled while the feature was in public preview. Microsoft said it used the time in preview to improve the feature based on feedback.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has confirmed that the next Windows 11 version coming this year will be Windows 11 version 26H2, keeping with the usual annual format of releasing a new OS version in the second half of the year.

Just like Windows 11 version 25H2 and version 24H2 before it, version 26H2 will be based on the same 2024 platform release. That means the version 25H2 update won't be a big one, sharing the same featureset as version 25H2 and the same platform improvements as 24H2.

"Windows 11, version 26H2 continues the move toward a more predictable and efficient servicing model. This model helps reduce disruption while helping your organization stay secure and up to date. By building on a shared platform and delivering innovation continuously, Windows enables you to focus less on large upgrade projects and more on delivering value to your users."

As 26H2 is based on the same platform release as 25H2 and 24H2, the 26H2 release will share:

• The same source code base
• The same security and quality updates
• The same compatibility validation

That means it will be easy for individuals as enterprises to upgrade to the new version this fall, as there won't be any validation or compatibility concerns to be worried about. If it works on 25H2 or 24H2, it'll work on 26H2.

Microsoft has confirmed that 26H2 won't be made available to all Windows 11 users, however. If you're running Windows 11 version 26H1, you won't be able to upgrade to version 26H2 this fall. This is because version 26H1 is a special offshoot version of Windows 11 built specifically for Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 and NVIDIA RTX Spark devices.

Version 26H1 is based on a newer platform release than the one that powers 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2, which means 26H1 is technically on a newer codebase than the upcoming 26H2. That's why users on 26H1 won't be offered an upgrade to 26H2 this fall.

Microsoft does say that those on 26H1 will be offered an upgrade to a newer OS version in the future, but it's yet to confirm when that will be. I suspect those on 26H1 will be offered an upgrade to 27H2 towards the end of next year instead.

The company has confirmed that version 26H2 is coming soon, but is yet to provide an actual date for release. I expect we'll see rollout begin towards the end of September or into the month of October, as has historically been the case.

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As part of the Experimental experience for Windows 11 version 26H2, Microsoft recently released build 26300.8697. While the official announcement focused on fixes and improvements, a more interesting discovery was hiding beneath the surface. A new Search setting that can turn off Bing-powered web results in the Windows Search experience.

Search may finally get a Bing off switch

Windows Search has long mixed local files, apps, and settings with web suggestions, often surfacing Bing results even when users are simply looking for something on their computer. The appearance of a dedicated toggle to remove those web results suggests that the company is exploring a more streamlined Search experience with fewer distractions.

However, this isn't entirely new. Users in the European Economic Area (EEA) have had similar controls for some time as part of Microsoft's compliance with the Digital Markets Act. What's notable here is that the company now appears to be building the same functionality for all markets.

The story I see is much more than user choice. This appears to be Microsoft acknowledging that not every Windows Search query needs a web result attached to it. Instead of forcing online content into the experience, Windows 11 could soon let users decide what belongs in Search. For many people, that could make finding apps, files, and settings faster and more predictable.

New Search controls reduce clutter

The setting is currently tucked in under Settings > Privacy & security > Search in build 26300.8697. The option is labeled "Web Searches" in the "Show suggested search results" section.

Microsoft is also testing a separate "Microsoft Store" toggle to prevent Store apps from appearing in Search results. Together, these options would give users more control over what surfaces when searching from the Start menu and Search box in the Taskbar.

Privacy & Security settings are getting reorganized

The same preview build also includes an updated version of the "Privacy & security" page. Microsoft has reorganized the settings into clearer categories and added a new header that provides quick access to Windows Security, along with glanceable information for location, camera, and microphone permissions.

The company is also adding new entry points for features such as Passkeys and the Custom Dictionary.

Availability of the Search experience

At this stage, the feature is not officially available, and it's not an option you can turn on from the "Feature flags" page either. It was spotted by @PhantomOfEarth inside the Insider build and can only be enabled using ViveTool feature IDs, indicating that Microsoft is still actively developing and testing the experience.

If testing goes as planned, the company could refine the feature through future 26H2 preview releases before deciding on a wider rollout.

Windows Central's Take

I think Microsoft should have offered this option to everyone a long time ago. When I'm using Windows Search, I'm usually looking for a file, app, or setting, not a Bing result. While web integration has its place, it often makes Search feel more cluttered than helpful.

What's interesting is that similar controls have already existed in Europe, so this isn't really a new feature. The bigger story is that Microsoft appears to be testing the same level of control for users across all regions, including the addition of an option to suppress apps from the Microsoft Store in the experience.

I wouldn't consider this a major feature for Windows 11, but it's the type of improvement that can make the operating system feel less intrusive and more focused on what users actually want to find.

What are your thoughts about having the option to remove Bing results from Windows Search on Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

On Windows 11, I often see users concerned about high memory usage when they open Task Manager. It's not uncommon to see RAM utilization sitting at 70, 80, or even 90 percent. When that happens, many people assume their computer is slowing down, the operating system is using too many resources, or it's finally time to upgrade to more memory.

Microsoft PC Manager is one of the tools designed to address this concern. The app includes a one-click "Boost" feature that promises to free memory and improve performance instantly. However, before you start clearing memory every time you see a high percentage, it's important to understand what the system is actually doing behind the scenes.

Why Windows 11 uses so much memory

Nowadays, modern operating systems are designed to use available resources efficiently. Instead of letting memory sit idle, Windows 11 uses available RAM to cache data and keep frequently used apps ready to launch faster. The goal is to make the system feel more responsive.

As a result, high memory usage isn't necessarily a warning sign. In many cases, it's evidence that the operating system is taking advantage of the hardware you already paid for. This is also why two computers with the same amount of memory can show very different usage in Task Manager, even when performance feels nearly identical.

It's important, though, to separate "good" memory usage from "bad" bloat. When the system uses RAM to cache files, it'll immediately give that memory back when another app needs it. On the other hand, if a single app or browser tab is consuming several gigabytes of memory because of poor optimization or a memory leak, that's a legitimate resource problem and a valid reason to close the app or use a tool like PC Manager.

Where Microsoft PC Manager fits in

Microsoft PC Manager can help when memory consumption becomes excessive. The Boost feature quickly closes unnecessary background processes and releases memory back to the system. If you've left dozens of browser tabs open, forgotten apps running in the background, or are working on a computer with limited memory, the feature can provide an immediate improvement.

For users who don't want to dig through Task Manager looking for resource-hungry processes, PC Manager offers a much simpler approach.

However, the tool works best when it's solving an actual memory problem rather than chasing a lower number.

The mistake many users make

The biggest mistake I see is treating memory usage as a score that should always be kept as low as possible.

If Task Manager reports 85 percent memory usage, many users immediately assume they need to free RAM. After using the Boost feature, they feel reassured because the percentage drops to a lower number.

The problem is that lower memory usage doesn't automatically translate into better performance.

Windows 11 often stores useful information in memory to speed up common tasks. Clearing that data may reduce the percentage shown in Task Manager, but it doesn't always make the computer faster. In some situations, the operating system simply reloads the same information back into memory moments later.

When should you actually worry?

The percentage itself isn't what matters most. What matters is whether you're experiencing symptoms that indicate the system is running out of available memory. Apps taking longer to open, sluggish multitasking, and random slowdowns are usually better indicators than the number shown in Task Manager.

Another sign is when the system begins to rely heavily on virtual memory, forcing it to move data between RAM and storage. That's when performance can start to suffer noticeably. Also, keep in mind that many other factors can affect system performance, including the type and speed of your local drive, available disk space, thermal throttling, processor limitations, and excessive startup apps and background processes, just to name a few.

If your computer remains responsive throughout your normal workload, high memory usage alone usually isn't a reason to worry.

So how much RAM usage is too much?

There isn't a magic number that applies to every computer. For some users, 90 percent memory usage may be perfectly normal because they're running dozens of browser tabs, editing photos, or working with virtual machines.

Actually, I fall into this category. When I built my system, I installed 96GB of RAM, and I haven't noticed any slowdown in the applications I use when the usage is around 90 percent or even more.

However, context is also important. On an 8GB system sitting at around 85 percent memory usage, there's very little room left to work with. At that point, Windows 11 has to rely more on memory compression and move data to the storage drive, which can lead to noticeable slowdowns or stuttering. High memory usage on a high-end computer is usually just normal caching. However, on a lower-end system, it often means the hardware is starting to struggle.

My rule of thumb is simple. If memory usage consistently stays at 85-90 percent and you're noticing performance issues, it's probably time to investigate and consider a RAM upgrade. If performance remains smooth, Windows 11 is likely managing memory exactly as intended.

Windows Central's Take

Every time I see someone post a screenshot showing 85 or 90 percent memory usage on Windows 11, the first reaction is usually, "You need more RAM." In reality, that's often not the case.

I've tested Windows 11 on systems with 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB of memory, and one thing I've learned is that the system will happily use available RAM if it can improve performance. That's exactly what modern operating systems are supposed to do. Unused memory doesn't make your computer faster.

This is why I think Microsoft PC Manager's Boost feature is both useful and potentially misleading. It's useful because it can quickly free resources on low-memory systems or when an app is misbehaving. However, it can also reinforce the idea that high memory usage is always bad, which simply isn't true.

The one major exception here is right before you launch a heavy workload. If you are about to open a demanding game or start rendering a 4K video, it could make sense to hit the "Boost" feature beforehand. It forces background tasks to clear out early, ensuring your heavy application has immediate access to raw blocks of memory without waiting for the system to reallocate resources on the fly.

If you open Task Manager and see memory usage sitting at 80 or even 90 percent, I wouldn't rush to upgrade your memory. Instead, I'd ask a different question. Is the device actually slow? If apps open quickly and multitasking feels smooth, Windows 11 is probably managing memory exactly as intended.

For me, the real sign that it's time for more RAM isn't a percentage in Task Manager. It's when I start noticing slowdowns, app reloads, stuttering, or other performance issues during my normal workflow. That's when additional memory makes a difference.

What's the highest memory usage you've seen on Windows 11 without noticing any performance issues? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Controlling audio settings on your PC is about to get easier. An upcoming update to Windows 11 will provide more options on a single page, reducing the number of clicks needed to change the volume of your devices.

Windows 11 Build 29613.1000 shipped to Windows Insiders in the Experimental (Future Platforms) Preview Channel recently. The update improves the "All sound devices" page within the settings app.

At the moment, that page merely shows a list of your output devices and input devices. To make any changes, you have to click on a device and jump to another page. After the latest Insider update, that same page lets you change your default device, monitor the volume of each device, and choose to hide or show disabled or unplugged devices.

Microsoft detailed the changes in the build's release notes:

• Following up on our previous improvements, we’re making some more adjustments to Settings > System > Sounds based on your feedback. Namely, we’ve updated the “All sound devices” page so:
  • You now have the ability to change default devices from this page.
  • Each of the devices displayed on this page now has a little volume meter next to it to show if there is audio actively playing.
  • We’ve adjusted the page design slightly so now you can filter whether you’re viewing input or output devices.
  • We’ve added toggles so you can choose if you want to hide or show disabled, disconnected, and unplugged devices on this page.
• We’ve also updated the input and output audio properties page for devices in Settings to now include jack information for those that need it.

Microsoft shipped three other Insider builds alongside Build 29613.1000, though they're minor updates. They mostly focus on bug fixes and minor changes.

Microsoft overhauled the Windows Insider Program recently. The channel structure now feels more linear and builds progress through in a way that feels natural.

The newly formed Experimental Channel allows Insiders to test "Future Platform" builds of the OS, which focus more on platform change than new features. The regular Experimental and Beta Channels have more front-facing features.

Users will also be able to bypass A/B testing and access the newest features available through their respective channel.

Microsoft is still transitioning to the new structure, so some options are not available at this time.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft is often referred to as the software giant — and for a good reason. Windows and Office are among the most profitable products in its ecosystem, thanks to their widespread global adoption. However, the tech giant has seemingly shifted its focus from its bread and butter to chase the elusive generative AI.

It dates back to Microsoft's first investment in OpenAI in 2019. CEO Satya Nadella revealed that his company's original co-founder, Bill Gates, wasn't party to the idea, citing the AI firm's non-profit structure. "Yeah, you're going to burn this billion dollars," Gates warned.

Conversely, a separate report claimed that Bill Gates is still intimately involved in Microsoft's affairs, despite stepping away to focus on his philanthropic efforts. His advice is reportedly regarded as gospel, with Nadella frequently relying on his guidance for the company’s transformative AI initiatives.

Nevertheless, Satya Nadella indicated that the company was moving away from Bill Gates' software factory vision: "That idea has guided us for decades," he indicated. "But today, it's no longer enough." According to Nadella, that original vision is becoming outdated as we edge closer to the AI revolution.

Instead, Microsoft is pivoting to security, quality, and AI transformation as its core business priorities. While it sounds good on paper, reality paints a very different picture (at least in the short term). Microsoft has faced a wide array of challenges in this age of AI, which could potentially undermine the backbone that has propelled it to a market capitalization of 2.82 trillion.

Too little, too late for Windows?

I've used Windows all my life, with a few side quests with Linux (Ubuntu) and macOS. Over that period, there's been a paradigm shift in Microsoft's OS, and not necessarily for the better. Windows 11's slow adoption rate before Windows 10's death is a clear depiction.

Many blatantly expressed their preference for the previous edition for a range of reasons, including Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements, flawed design elements, and more.

According to a recent HP survey, 3 out of 10 HP PCs are still running Windows 10 despite Microsoft pulling the plug on October 14, 2025. Then again, the number of Windows 10 holdouts has slightly decreased from September 2025, when HP and Dell indicated that up to 50% of PCs were still running on the operating system.

As a result, many users may not switch to Windows 11 immediately, instead delaying the upgrade until later this year, likely when ESU support officially ends.

Consequently, groups like The Restart Project group, which helped co-develop the "End of 10" toolkit to support Windows 10 users who can't upgrade to Windows 11, claim Microsoft's move to continue pushing security updates to Windows 10 beyond its end-of-support feels like a last-minute snooze button, which only acts as a band-aid on a bleeding system.

Critics have even branded Windows 10's end of support as programmed obsolescence on Microsoft's end, because the move forced millions of working PCs into early retirement, as they didn't meet the requirements to upgrade to Windows 11.

While it might seem like a stretch to some, rival platforms like Linux have shown some increased traction with incentives like a lack of ads and telemetry tracking fueling the switch from Microsoft's ecosystem. Some of our own Windows Central community members share the same sentiments, too.

That said, it might be too early to write off Windows. At the beginning of the year, Microsoft pledged to improve the overall user sentiment around the operating system, and has made good on its promise with its Windows K2 initiative (an internal initiative designed to address major pain points across Windows 11 based on customer feedback), including reducing where Copilot and other AI integrations appear across the operating system.

The company even brought back Windows Insider meetups to bridge the gap between users and the Windows development team, potentially making it easier to voice concerns and even provide feedback that will help steer the platform in the right direction.

However, Microsoft plans to evolve Windows into an agentic AI operating system — a move that has been received with mixed feelings. It indicated that Windows will ship with a new agentic workspace feature right out of the box, containing AI agents in their own secure sessions.

Last month, Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s head of product marketing for AI and Copilot, transitioned to a new role focused on "reimagining Windows for the agentic era" before eventually departing the company. This is a clear indication that the evolution of Windows into an agentic OS is already on track and could happen sooner than you think.

It'll be interesting to see how this will impact Microsoft's massive market share on desktops with Windows, and whether users will jump ship to "less intrusive" alternatives.

Office lost Teams, and Microsoft thought Copilot would sweeten the deal

In case you missed it, Microsoft unbundled Teams from Office 365 to dodge EU antitrust fines in 2025. The new arrangement offers Office 365 and Microsoft 365 without Teams at a lower cost, at around $2.20 (€2) less per user each month. This means you'll have to get Teams as a standalone service for about $5.50 (€5) per user per month.

In April, Salesforce filed a lawsuit against Microsoft, citing anticompetitive practices related to its Microsoft Teams app: "Microsoft's practices harmed ⁠competition, using tying and bundling of Teams to ​limit customer choice," the Slack maker claimed.

However, Microsoft dismissed the claims, citing that the antitrust case lacked merit. At the same time, it used the opportunity to throw jabs at Slack's lackluster growth and inferior capabilities compared to Teams and Zoom.

In the interim, Microsoft Office could potentially be looking at a competitive threat from the likes of The Document Foundation's LibreOffice and even newcomers like Euro-Office.

Euro-Office is Europe’s bold alternative to Microsoft 365, promising sovereignty and control. Perhaps more interestingly, the service ships a familiar user interface as Microsoft's service, which should technically make the jump less drastic for users.

However, the threat doesn't seem that serious, at least in the short term, unless the rival platforms address major concerns affecting their services and commit to improving compatibility. According to Windows Central member, GraniteStateColin:

"Microsoft Office is cheap and excellent. It's a bargain for anyone who benefits from its feature set. If all you need is a simple text entry window, then it is overkill, but at $20/year/user ($120/year for 6 users), it's still one of the cheapest options. That's $2/mo! If that's what's bankrupting Europe, they have bigger problems."

"LibreOffice's compatibility with MS Office docs is terrible. If there's anything more than the occasional bold or italic word, formatting is almost always a mess when trying to open a LibreOffice document in Word. That's on them, not Microsoft. They have had access to the file standards for more than a decade and CHOSE not to implement them properly."

This isn't the first threat to Microsoft's dominance with Windows and its Office productivity tools. In April, the French government revealed that it was ditching Windows for Linux as part of the country's broader strategy to reduce its dependence on American tools.

Similarly, at the beginning of this year, France announced plans to ditch Microsoft Teams and Zoom for a domestically developed platform called Visio across its public institutions by 2027.

Microsoft's toxic relationship with AI

Last year, Microsoft started automatically installing the Copilot AI app on Microsoft 365 users' Windows PCs. However, it temporarily suspended the forced installation following backlash and complaints from users, including a critical bug that allowed the chatbot to access sensitive data and read confidential emails.

However, the company is resuming automatic Microsoft 365 Copilot installations, starting July 1, for all Microsoft 365 users. It's worth noting that admins can opt out of the experience.

Despite Microsoft's fixation on AI, shareholders recently filed a class action lawsuit against the company, alleging it deliberately overstated Copilot’s success and its partnership with OpenAI. They also claimed that Microsoft failed to disclose Azure’s revenue slump while pouring billions into expanding AI data center infrastructure.

Market analysts and experts warned that Microsoft could be facing its worst quarter since the 2008 financial crisis if it continues blowing money on AI that isn't meeting investor expectations for returns.

Microsoft's big bet on AI and consequent setbacks go beyond Office and Windows; Azure is a victim too. According to a former engineer, Microsoft reportedly rushed the service into the market to compete with Google and Amazon.

This resulted in a talent exodus and lackluster software, which seemingly left Microsoft's cloud fragile and unable to compete on an even playing field with competitors. Either way, the next few years will reveal whether Microsoft's AI gamble strengthens its legacy products or leaves them further behind.

What are your thoughts about the current state of Windows and Office as Microsoft pivots to AI? Share your thoughts with me in the comments.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

If you're into portable gaming, there's a chance you might not have heard of the Winhanced launcher yet. It's worth your attention, though, and I've covered it quite extensively in the past. It essentially acts as a full replacement for Steam's "Big Picture Mode" or the still-improving Xbox mode on Windows-based handhelds, like the fantastic Xbox Ally X.

The launcher is still in active development and hasn't quite reached version 1.0 yet. Despite that, the team has continued working hard behind the scenes, delivering a steady stream of impressive features in version 0.9.8.9. Before I get into the latest changes, let me praise what Winhanced actually brings to your Windows handheld.

At its core, Winhanced compiles your entire gaming library into a single interface. It supports Steam, Xbox, Epic Games Store, GOG, and even retro emulators, making it far easier to keep track of everything you own without constantly jumping between different applications.

As impressive as that is, one of the platform's standout features is something called Smart Profiles. These are community-created game configurations designed to help you get the best possible performance from your hardware. At the time of writing, support has already expanded to more than 50 games, including 007 First Light, ARC Raiders, Baldur's Gate 3, and more.

Another feature I particularly like is the ability to view your friend lists across multiple platforms in one place. Winhanced currently supports Steam, Xbox, and Discord, with additional services planned for the future, making it much easier to keep track of who's online regardless of where they play.

Now, I've mentioned features the launcher already does well, but the team hasn't stopped there. More recently, they've updated game cards, adding support for achievements across Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and GOG, all presented through a controller-friendly interface that's easy to navigate.

While game streaming isn't really my thing, the developers have continued to expand support there as well, with the latest update adding 16:10 and 21:9 aspect ratio options for streaming. Outside of that, the team has also added button remapping, improvements to the launcher's visuals, smoother performance, cleaner animations, and a more consistent design language throughout the entire experience.

I could easily spend another few hundred words singing Winhanced's praises, but instead, I'd recommend joining the Winhanced Discord, asking questions, and giving it a try for yourself. If you like what the team is building, you can also support development through Winhanced's Patreon and help fund future updates.

With that said, what do you think of the latest additions? Are these updates enough to convince you to give Winhanced a shot, or are there still features you'd like to see added before making the switch?

Let me know in the comments below, and be sure to take part in our poll below:

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft’s June 2026 Patch Tuesday update shipped with several critical flaws that disrupted the Windows 11 user experience, including BitLocker lockout issues. Now, the company has acknowledged yet another problem.

Update KB5094126 is causing issues across all supported versions of Windows. What's the issue? When you try to delete a file from the Recycle Bin, the confirmation dialog may display the "internal" filename instead of the standard, readable filename. Microsoft has clarified that this glitch is limited to the dialog box itself and does not affect the file or its deletion (via Neowin).

What's more, when checking the list view in the Recycle Bin, you'll notice that the file name is correct. And if you decide to restore the file to your device, its original name remains unaltered.

The issue affects all supported versions of Windows client and server, including:

• Client: Windows 11, version 26H1; Windows 11, version 25H2; Windows 11, version 24H2; Windows 11, version 23H2; Windows 10, version 22H2; Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021; Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019; Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016
• Server: Windows Server 2025; Windows Server 2022; Windows Server 2019; Windows Server 2016; Windows Server 2012 R2; Windows Server 2012

In the interim, Microsoft is actively working on a permanent fix for the issue, which will likely be delivered to affected users via a future Windows update. However, it is unclear whether Microsoft will ship the fix through the next Patch Tuesday release or an out-of-band update.

Commercial customers can get a workaround for the issue, but they need to reach out to Microsoft Support for Business for more details on how to go about it.

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On Windows 11, keyboard shortcuts remain one of the fastest ways to navigate the desktop, but most users know only a handful. While commands like "Windows key + E" to open File Explorer or "Ctrl + C" and "Ctrl + V" to copy and paste content can save time every day, many useful shortcuts remain hidden unless users actively search for them.

Microsoft team behind PowerToys is now making shortcut discovery easier with a redesigned Shortcut Guide in version 0.100.

A smarter shortcut reference for Windows 11

The Shortcut Guide has been part of PowerToys for a long time, but the latest version feels much more practical.

Instead of opening a static reference page filled with generic commands, the guide now appears as a flyout that adapts to the application you're currently using. The result is a more focused experience that highlights shortcuts relevant to the task at hand.

Whether you're working in File Explorer, browsing the web, or editing text, the guide can surface keyboard commands without forcing you to stop what you're doing and search online.

Why keyboard shortcuts still matter

Despite improvements to the Windows 11 interface, keyboard shortcuts remain the quickest way to perform many actions.

Whether switching apps, managing windows, opening system features, or navigating File Explorer, keyboard commands can often complete a task faster than using a mouse.

The challenge has always been discovering and remembering those shortcuts.

The majority of users know only a small subset of available commands, while many of those shortcuts for productivity remain underused simply because they're difficult to remember.

The new Shortcut Guide addresses that problem by putting relevant shortcuts directly in front of users when they need them.

Learning shortcuts without leaving your workflow

One of the biggest advantages of the redesign is that it teaches you as you work.

Instead of requiring someone to memorize a long list of commands, the guide can provide shortcuts that apply to the current application or feature. Over time, you'll naturally learn the keyboard commands they use most often.

If you want to access the Shortcuts Guide, you have to install PowerToys. You can do this by running the "winget install --id Microsoft.PowerToys" command on Command Prompt or PowerShell (admin). You can also download the tool from the official GitHub page or Microsoft Store.

Once the app is installed, launch it, and from PowerToys > System Tools > Shortcut Guide, turn on the "Shortcut Guide" toggle switch.

From the same page, you can also choose the color theme and the flyout position.

Optionally, you can also exclude apps from the experience.

After configuring the tool, you can access it using the "Windows key + Shift + /" keyboard shortcut. However, you can change this process page by customizing the "Activation shortcut" setting.

You can also access the guide through the PowerToys flyout in the Taskbar's System Tray.

By default, when you open the Shortcut Guide, it'll show shortcuts in different tabs. If you don't have any apps in focus, you'll access the list of keyboard shortcuts for Windows 11, and the second tab will include the shortcuts for PowerToys.

While I was writing this guide, I noticed shortcuts would appear at least for Notepad, Microsoft Edge, and File Explorer.

This tool doesn't include shortcuts for every app, but the development team also provides instructions for developers to integrate their apps into the list.

Windows Central's Take

I've always thought the operating system has plenty of useful keyboard shortcuts, but most users never discover them. The redesigned Shortcut Guide from PowerToys addresses that problem by putting relevant shortcuts in front of users when they actually need them.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of this guide is the context-aware experience. Instead of overwhelming users with a long list of commands, the guide focuses on shortcuts related to the app they're currently using. That's a much more practical way to learn and adopt keyboard shortcuts.

Do you regularly use keyboard shortcuts on Windows 11, or do you still rely mostly on the mouse for everyday tasks? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

On Windows, screensavers once defined a small but memorable part of the experience. They served a clear purpose in the era of CRT monitors in the 1980s and 1990s, preventing burn-in while adding a layer of personality to otherwise idle machines. Over time, they became part utility, part expression, and part nostalgia.

By the time Windows 95 and XP became mainstream, screensavers had changed from utility to expression. Users weren't just protecting displays anymore. They were customizing them using options like 3D Text, Bubbles, Mystify, Ribbons, and photo slideshows, which became part of the personal computing identity (don't even get us started on the awesomeness that was After Dark and flying toasters).

In 2026, that original purpose is gone. The majority of modern displays no longer require burn-in protection, and Windows 11 already relies on power management and lock screen behavior to handle inactivity more efficiently. However, screensavers still exist inside the operating system, largely unchanged and tucked away in the legacy Control Panel.

That raises a question. Do screensavers still belong on Windows 11, or are they a feature that no longer has a clear place in modern computing?

A feature that outlived its original purpose

From a technical standpoint, screensavers are no longer necessary. For example, displays now sleep intelligently, and system security is handled through the lock screen rather than idle animations.

However, screensavers were never just about utility. They also represented one of the earliest forms of personalization, which users used to express themselves. While that role has shifted to features such as lock screen images, desktop slideshows with Windows Spotlight, and widgets, none of them fully replace the experience screensavers once offered.

How screensavers are used today

Although screensavers are still available, usage has changed significantly. Today, they tend to fall into a few categories, including personal photo slideshows during inactivity and basic visuals used for aesthetic setups.

The closest the operating system gets to a modern interpretation is the "Photos" screensaver, which can cycle through images from a local folder. However, it remains limited, disconnected from cloud services, and largely untouched by modern design evolution.

You can still access the feature from Settings > Personalization > Lock screen > Screen saver, which opens the feature through Control Panel.

As part of the options available, you can use 3D Text, Bubbles, Mystify, Photos, and Ribbons.

Microsoft's reason to keep it

Microsoft's focus has changed to bigger priorities, such as AI features, performance improvements, security, and modernizing the desktop interface. At the same time, the original reason for screensavers has disappeared, as modern displays no longer need protection from burn-in (excluding OLED displays), and the system can simply turn off the screen after a period of inactivity.

Also, Windows 11 already offers several ways to personalize the experience when you're away from the keyboard, including the lock screen, desktop backgrounds, and widgets. As a result, screensavers have become a legacy feature that the company has continued to support but has not actively developed.

Where screensavers still make sense

Even though screensavers are no longer needed to protect displays, they can still be useful in modern operating systems.

Instead of showing simple animations, screensavers could make better use of the time when a computer is idle. For example, they could display personal photos like a digital picture frame, surface useful information such as weather or calendar events, or simply add another layer of personalization to a desktop setup.

In other words, screensavers no longer need to save the screen. Their value today lies in making an idle device more useful (without affecting energy usage), more personal, and more visually appealing.

Missing evolution on Windows 11

Windows 11 already contains many of the components needed for a modern idle experience, but they exist separately.

For instance, lock and sign-in screens handle authentication and some personalization, widgets provide glanceable information, and desktop backgrounds offer static or slideshow visuals.

What's missing is a unified system that activates during inactivity and blends these experiences into a consistent, intentional layer. Instead, the system offers overlapping features that never fully converge.

Should Microsoft bring screensavers back?

The answer depends on how Microsoft approaches the feature. If screensavers remain limited to simple animations and photo slideshows, they probably don't deserve much attention. Modern power management and lock screen customization already cover that territory more efficiently.

However, if screensavers are reimagined as a modern ambient mode for Windows 11, then the idea becomes far more compelling.

In that form, they could evolve into something closer to a system-level experience, turning idle screens into personalized, context-aware displays rather than simply blank or static states.

Windows Central's Take

Screensavers solved a real problem decades ago, but I don't think that's why many people still remember them. They added personality to the operating system in a way that today's lock screen and widgets still don't quite match.

Personally, I don't miss the old screensavers themselves. I haven't used Bubbles, Mystify, or Ribbons in years. What I miss is the idea that the operating system did something interesting when I stepped away from my computer.

Windows has evolved in many ways over the years, yet when you step away from your device, it usually just shows the lock screen or turns off the display. Maybe that's enough. Or maybe the software giant is missing an opportunity to make idle time a little more useful.

What do you think? Should Microsoft bring screensavers back as a modern feature, or is it a piece of computer history that's better left in the past? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

It’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks in the tech world! Following a busy stretch of trade shows, Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden sit down to break down one of the most consequential weeks for the Windows and PC ecosystems in years.

From the show floor of Computex in Taipei to the developer tracks at Microsoft Build, the guys dissect the massive shift toward ARM computing, the hardware taking aim at Apple’s high-end territory, and the future of "agentic" AI operating systems. Plus, the show caps off with breaking news regarding Xbox's business health and a massive report on the future of Microsoft’s gaming division.

• Nvidia’s "Super Chip" Shift: A deep dive into the shocking announcement of the Nvidia RTX Spark (built in partnership with MediaTek on TSMC's 3nm process). Zac explains why Nvidia completely took control of the messaging from Microsoft, ditching the "Copilot Plus" branding to pitch an ultra-premium workstation ecosystem aimed squarely at Apple’s M5 Pro and Max MacBook Pros.
• The Surface Laptop Ultra: Zac shares his hands-on impressions of Microsoft’s brand-new, thick-and-dense 15-inch powerhouse. We look at the gorgeous mini-LED display, a massive haptic trackpad, and a mystery magnetic breakaway USB-C port that could spell the end of the proprietary Surface Connect port.
• The $599 Laptop Wars: Dell stuns the industry by pushing the XPS 13 downward to a student-friendly $599 starting price, pitting it right against the MacBook Neo. We compare the premium build, its 120Hz display, and the new Intel Wildcat Lake chips against the Acer Swift Air 14 and Qualcomm’s budget-oriented Snapdragon C processor.
• Project Solara & Build 2026: What is an "agentic OS"? We break down Microsoft's Android-based platform shift away from traditional app stores and toward just-in-time user interfaces, including a look at their hardware "badge" and "desk" concept prototypes.
• Breaking Xbox News: Daniel and Zac react in real-time to a staggering report from The Information. Is Microsoft preparing to spin off Xbox into a wholly owned subsidiary like LinkedIn or GitHub? We discuss the fallout from the Xbox Games Showcase, Sarah Bond and Phil Spencer's leadership legacy, and the aggressive new mandate under Asha Sharma to pump out massive franchises like Halo, Fallout, and Elder Scrolls.

Timestamps

• [00:30] Welcome & Computex vs. Build Retrospective
• [04:12] Nvidia RTX Spark: The ARM Workstation Disruption
• [30:09] Surface Laptop Ultra: Hands-on Specs & The Mystery USB-C Port
• [42:05] Dell's Sub-$700 Flagship Strategy & Intel Wildcat Lake
• [56:26] Acer Swift Air 14 & The Internet's Linux vs. Windows Debates
• [01:01:14] Project Solara: Microsoft’s Future "App-Less" Agent Ecosystem
• [01:10:10] Xbox Showcase Fallout & First-Party Exclusivity Backpedaling
• [01:29:25] Breaking News: Is Microsoft Spinning Off the Xbox Business?

Have a question you want us to answer on the podcast? Send it to us at podcast@windowscentral.com

Hosts:

• Daniel Rubino
• Zac Bowden

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Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

As part of the Windows Insider Program, Microsoft made available several preview builds of Windows 11 in early June 2026. Although these preview builds didn't introduce many new features, the company dedicated most of its work to improving existing ones.

In the first two weeks of June, the company unveiled a new Beta channel for version 26H1, and in the different channels, we've also seen a number of features and improvements. For example, we've seen new features like Screen Tint and Low Latency Profile.

In addition, a new version of Widgets with fewer distracting settings has rolled out, an updated Magnifier with new settings has also rolled out, and there are improvements for File Explorer.

Furthermore, Microsoft continues improving the Windows Update experience, Windows Search, and more.

In the Experimental track, we've seen builds 28120.2242, 26300.8687, 29610, and 28120.2302, and builds 26220.8575, 28020.2236, 26220.8680, and 28020.2298 have been released in the Beta channel.

In this recap, I'll highlight the latest and most noteworthy changes available through the Windows Insider Program.

Biggest improvements from the Windows Insider Program in June 2026

These are the most significant changes Microsoft has unveiled since the last roundup.

Screen tint new feature

On Windows 11 build 28020.2298, in the new Beta channel for version 26H1, Microsoft introduced a new accessibility feature called "Screen tint." It's a system-wide color overlay designed to reduce eye strain and soften overly bright or saturated displays.

Unlike the Night Light feature, which primarily reduces blue light for nighttime use, Screen tint changes the overall intensity and color tone of the display during the day. The software giant notes that the two features solve different problems and can work together.

The feature is available in Settings > Accessibility > Vision > Screen tint, with six preset tint colors and an option to create a custom color.

In addition, you can also adjust the intensity with the available slider. However, one thing to point out is that enabling Screen tint disables Color Filters, and vice versa.

In June 2026, Screen Tint also became available on build 26220.8680 through the Beta experience.

Low Latency Profile

Also, for version 26H1, on build 28020.2298, the company introduced Low Latency Profile, a feature that temporarily maxes out (or near-maxes) the processor frequency for 1 to 3 seconds during interactive tasks on Windows 11. Instead of focusing on sustained performance, the feature appears designed to reduce delays during actions like opening apps or opening flyouts, such as the Start menu, File Explorer, and context menus.

The feature can result in up to 40 percent faster application launch times and up to 70 percent faster interaction times with system features, such as opening the Start menu or context menu.

Low Latency Profile works automatically, so you won't find an option to turn it on or off in the Settings app or Control Panel.

It's important to note that responsiveness improvements will vary by hardware. Computers with lower-end or older components may notice the biggest difference because these systems typically struggle more with interface responsiveness, app launches, and short bursts of activity.

Widgets with quieter defaults

In the Beta channel for version 25H2, starting with build 26220.8680, the development team updated the Widgets experience with less distracting default settings.

For example, Widgets no longer open in hover and turn off badges in the Taskbar by default. In addition, alerts will be limited until you open the app and engage with the experience.

When you open the dashboard, Widgets will appear under your "widgets" rather than in the news feed. In addition, the company is updating the Taskbar badging to use a color scheme that follows the system accent color, rather than the red indicator, to reduce the sense of urgency.

Another change being developed is adaptive behavior for user engagement. This means that the system will now adapt the Widgets feature based on user interaction. For example, highly engaged users will continue to receive the current experience. On the other hand, less engaging users will notice quieter default settings, including reduced or disabled badging.

Magnifier additional controls

As part of the accessibility improvements, in build 26220.8680, the Magnifier feature is receiving several enhancements.

For example, it's now possible to enter a specific zoom percentage directly in the interface instead of repeatedly clicking the zoom-in and zoom-out buttons.

Also, in the Magnifier settings, you can now find additional zoom presets, including 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 400 percent.

File Explorer changes

Although File Explorer remains visually the same, Microsoft has been pushing various improvements focused on compatibility, performance, and reliability.

For example, on build 26220.8680, the address bar now supports paths with double backslashes and quotation marks. Microsoft has also improved performance when mounting ISO files to prevent the application from becoming unresponsive during SmartScreen scans.

On build 26300.8687, you can now use the middle-click support to open folders in a new tab directly from the address bar and the Home page.

In addition, the company has made further refinements to improve File Explorer responsiveness at higher text scaling.

Windows Update single monthly restart

Alongside the ability to pause updates indefinitely, Microsoft continues improving its Windows Update system, and starting with the release of build 26300.8687, the company is unifying drivers, .NET, and firmware updates with the monthly quality update install to reduce restarts to one per month.

Windows Search with typo handling

Starting with build 26300.8687, Windows 11 includes an updated version of the search experience that improves the handling of typos, missing letters, extra characters, and partial app names.

It all means that, when searching the system, making mistakes should now be more likely to show the right answer. For instance, if you type "utlook," the Outlook app should be the first result.

Furthermore, local results now take priority over web results.

Windows Central's Take

These June Insider builds don't introduce many brand-new features, but they do show where Microsoft's priorities are right now. The majority of the features highlighted this month have already appeared in other preview builds. However, they're now making their way across additional testing channels as the company continues developing future versions of Windows 11.

Personally, I think the most meaningful changes are the ones that improve everyday usability. The Windows Update changes, better search results, and ongoing File Explorer refinements may not generate the same excitement as a major new feature. However, they have the potential to make the operating system feel more polished and less frustrating to use over time.

What are your thoughts about these latest Windows 11 improvements? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Some of the oldest and best-known apps on Windows 11 are about to receive an update, and Windows Insiders can already try the upcoming features.

It's a busy time for Windows Insiders. Microsoft revamped the channels of the Windows Insider Program and now rolls out builds at a quick pace. On top of the six new builds, Microsoft shipped at the end of last week, the company updated several of Windows 11's built-in apps.

Calculator, Camera, Clock, Media Player, Paint, Photos, and Sound Recorder all have updates awaiting Insiders.

Windows Insiders in the Experimental, Experimental (26H1), and Experimental (Future Platforms) channels will receive the app updates when running the latest build.

The Microsoft Learn site now has sections dedicated to apps. Within the column on the left side of the page, you'll see a dropdown menu and shortcuts to apps like Calculator, Camera, and Media Player.

Calculator Release notes

• More accurate square-root results — Fixed rare cases where a calculation that should equal zero (like sqrt(2.25) - 1.5) returned a tiny leftover value instead.
• Readable text in High Contrast themes — Settings text now shows the correct colors in the High Contrast Aquatic and Desert themes.
• Fixed layout for right-to-left languages — For languages like Arabic and Hebrew, the graph, number pad, equation fields, and scroll buttons now appear correctly oriented.
• Reliable launch after upgrading — Fixed an issue where upgrading from much older versions could leave outdated settings that stopped the app from opening.

Camera release notes

• Zoom slider works on more cameras — The zoom slider now works on the latest cameras, respects your system zoom settings, and updates instantly when you change those settings.
• Full range of zoom levels — Fixed an issue where the zoom slider only showed three steps on some devices that zoom in finer increments.
• Front camera works on more devices — Resolved a problem that blocked the front-facing camera on certain wide-angle devices.
• More video resolution choices — You can now pick video resolutions that were previously hidden; the app shows a heads-up warning instead of removing them.
• QR links you can still use — When a scanned QR code points to something with no matching app, the link is now copied to your clipboard (with a notification) while still offering a Store search.
• Smarter default settings — When you haven't set a preference, the app now follows your system settings by default.

Clock release notes

• Timers keep counting after they hit zero — When a timer runs out, it now keeps counting up (for example, -00:27:31) so you can see how far past the time you've gone.
• You can turn off the daily goal — Focus Sessions now include an "Off" option so you can skip setting a daily goal entirely.
• New 15-minute snooze option — Alarms now offer a 15-minute snooze interval.
• Run up to 3 countdowns at once — The Countdown Widget now supports three simultaneous countdowns, up from two.
• Timer Widget notifications now appear — Fixed an issue where the "timer finished" notification didn't show when the timer was started from the widget.
• Less clutter in Focus Sessions — Tasks you've already completed no longer show up in the Focus Session task list.
• More accurate focus progress — Fixed a rounding issue that could show your daily focus progress as a minute short (for example, 49 minutes instead of 50).
• Smoother World Clock comparisons — The World Clock compare page now loads dates as you scroll, so it feels more responsive.
• Up-to-date World Clock locations — Refreshed country and city names to match their current names.
• Correct sun and moon icons during midnight sun — Fixed an icon that wrongly showed a moon during all-day daylight in polar regions.
• Fixed back-button behavior in clock comparisons — Pressing back once now takes you back as expected, instead of jumping the date to 1926.
• Corrected the Newfoundland time zone — Newfoundland now uses the right time zone (St. John's).
• Disabled alarms stay looking disabled — Editing a turned-off alarm no longer makes it appear turned on.
• Cleaner timer cards — The expand button is now turned off on timer cards that have no time set, preventing actions that wouldn't do anything.
• Clearer theme setting — Updated the wording to "Choose your preferred app theme."
• Smoother Settings links — The "About" links in Settings no longer trigger an unexpected "switch apps" prompt.
• Fixed spacing in Spotify settings — Corrected uneven spacing in the Spotify settings card.
• Better focus visibility in High Contrast — The focus highlight in World Clock is now clearly visible in the High Contrast Aquatic and Desert themes.
• No more double announcements — Screen readers no longer read the timer value twice.
• Countdown names read correctly — Screen readers now properly announce the name of each countdown.
• Keyboard focus stays put — Focus no longer disappears after you press the Timer Reset button.
• Clearer alarm toggle for screen readers — Tidied up how the alarm on/off switch is announced.

Media Player Release notes

• Custom captions — You can now personalize how closed captions appear, with caption styling tied to your Windows caption settings, plus a quick link to open those settings directly.
• "Indexing" banner in the play queue — When your media library is still being scanned, a banner now explains why some items may not appear yet.
• Fixed the look of selected items — Corrected a layout glitch with selected items in lists.
• Fewer playback failures — Improved how the app recognizes supported file types, so more files play without issues.
• Playlists need a name — You can no longer accidentally save a playlist with a blank name.
• Cleaner look for empty playlists — Improved how a playlist appears when it has no items yet.
• More stable play queue edits — Fixed a crash that could happen when changing the play queue while the app was switching between sessions.
• Clearer "missing codec" message — Improved the dialog that appears when a file needs a codec you don't have, with clearer guidance on what to do.

Paint release notes

• Adjustable eraser transparency — You can now control how transparent the eraser is.
• Cleaner stamp brush strokes — Fixed visible color shifts and artifacts when using stamp-style brushes.
• JPEG photos save in place — Opening a rotated JPEG and pressing Save now overwrites the original instead of unexpectedly prompting "Save As."
• No more crash on bad image files — Opening a damaged or invalid image, from within the app, by double click, or commandline, now shows a clear error message instead of closing the app.
• Classic selection behavior restored — The selection outline now hides while you move, resize, or rotate a selection, just like in classic Paint.
• Tidier AI image panel — Fixed missing spacing at the bottom of the AI image generation panel for a cleaner layout.
• Visible button hover in light theme — Toolbar split buttons now show a clear hover highlight in the light theme.
• Snappier toolbar — Streamlined how the ribbon lays out, giving a small speed boost at startup.
• Fewer background crashes — Fixed a crash that could happen while background tasks were finishing up.
• Stable app shutdown — Prevented rare crashes when closing the app.
• Fixed layer removal glitch — Deleting the active layer no longer leaves the layers list in an inconsistent state.

Photos release notes

• AI watermarking — AI-generated or edited images can now carry a visible Copilot watermark. You choose Never, Always, or Ask Every Time in Settings, with a confirmation when saving. The watermarking is off by default in settings.
• Better viewing of small images and pixel art — Tiny images (like 16×16 pixel art) now zoom in far more to fill the screen and stay crisp instead of looking blurry.
• Select scanned text with the keyboard — When text is detected in an image, you can now navigate and select it using the arrow keys, Shift+Arrow, Home/End, and Ctrl+A, with a clear focus highlight.
• Fixed a crash in text recognition — Resolved a crash that could close Photos while detecting text in images; the app now recovers gracefully.
• Easier keyboard navigation — Tabbing through the navigation bar no longer stops on hidden controls, so it takes a single Tab to move past it instead of three.

Sound Recorder release notes

• Waveform shows with Bluetooth mics — The live waveform now displays correctly when you record using a Bluetooth audio device.
• No more stray scrollbar — A non-working horizontal scrollbar no longer appears at the bottom of the waveform unless you've zoomed in.
• Mark button ready right away — The Mark button no longer looks grayed out until you hover over it after opening the app.
• Markers hidden for WAV files — Markers are now turned off for WAV recordings, since that format can't store them — so they're no longer lost silently.
• Smoother deleting — Quickly pressing Delete and Enter to remove several recordings in a row no longer triggers a "file doesn't exist" error.
• Fixed a memory issue — Resolved a memory leak that occurred each time a recording started.

None of the updates are massive on their own, but it's nice to see attention paid to Windows 11's built-in apps. The update to the Clock app is surprisingly feature-rich.

Microsoft is in the early stages of making more native apps for Windows 11. The apps that just received updates for Insiders are already native, as far as I can tell.

"In-box apps," which are apps included in Windows 11, need to be optimized and native. The new Outlook and Clipchamp showed us how bad things can get when Microsoft makes web apps.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Ten years ago, we covered one of Microsoft’s most forward‑looking ideas: encouraging Android developers to port their apps to Windows 10 and link notifications through Cortana. It was a glimpse of a company trying to unify ecosystems before “cross‑platform” became a default expectation.

In 2026, that vision still feels important. Microsoft’s current AI strategy — spanning Windows, Android, and the cloud — builds directly on the same connective tissue Astoria (Android app emulation) and Cortana (early AI assistant) once represented. Back then, it was about notifications and app parity; today, it’s about intelligent context and seamless device continuity.Some are even predicting that we won't need apps in the coming years, as AI will handle it all.

Looking back, this story reads like an early chapter in Microsoft’s long game to make Windows not just an OS, but a hub for every platform around it. While it didn't work out quite as expected, we do have Phone Link today to help bridge that gap. — Daniel Rubino, Editor-in-Chief

The original article, Microsoft encouraging Android-to-Windows 10 app ports via Cortana notifications, was published on June 10th, 2016, by John Callaham.

Microsoft is using the Cortana notification sync feature in Windows 10 to add a "request app" feature if the notification comes from an Android smartphone.

The notifications were first spotted by Reddit user "MrPromaster'. The "Request app" link goes to a UserVoice page where anyone can recommend that an app be added to the Windows Store.

This new method to encourage more Android apps to come to the Windows Store comes several months after Microsoft officially canceled its "Project Astoria" bridge tool plans that would have made it easier for developers to port Android apps to Windows 10.

Notification syncing between Android and Windows 10 is currently only available for those running Insider builds of 'Redstone'.

While the notifications are configurable on Android the request is rather nondiscriminatory too. For instance, we had the request feature show up for the Google Play store after it performed some app updates. Likewise for Shazam, even though there already is a Shazam for Windows 10 app available. While this tactic is not a slam dunk to get more apps to Windows 10, it is a rather clever move to reach the millions of Android users who also use a Windows PC every day.

We'll have to wait and see how well this new strategy pays off once the Windows 10 Anniversary Update rolls out later this summer to the masses.

Microsoft has spent the past year trying to convince users that it's listening. Through its Windows K2 initiative, the company has been focusing on improving Windows 11 with better customization, interface refinements, bug fixes, and other changes driven by user feedback.

However, one of the most persistent complaints about Windows 11 remains unresolved, which is the company's insistence on requiring a Microsoft account during setup.

A recent discussion on Reddit started with a simple request. User 2025Fishy argued that Microsoft should restore the option to create a local account directly during the Windows 11 setup experience.

"I genuinely do not accept how Microsoft removed the local account in OOBE," the user wrote.

The thread quickly filled with suggestions for bypassing Microsoft's restrictions using Rufus, command-line tricks, and domain-join options. However, the original poster repeatedly made it clear that workarounds weren't the point.

"I don't need tips, I just want Microsoft to change it," the user replied.

That sentiment resonated with other commenters. "The point is, there should be an option in the OOBE that lets you choose to set it up with a local account instead. Like we had since forever," wrote Affectionate_Creme48.

At first glance, this looks like another debate about local accounts. After reading through the comments, I think it's actually about something bigger, which is user control.

Microsoft's push toward mandatory Microsoft accounts isn't only about syncing settings and accessing cloud services. It's also tied to security features such as BitLocker.

One commenter, Timusius, explained Microsoft's likely reasoning: "To avoid the next problem: 'Microsoft locked my data behind bitlocker, and now I can't get it back.' they need to store that key on the MS account."

If you look at it from a security perspective, that argument makes sense. Devices should be encrypted by default, and storing recovery keys online can prevent users from permanently losing access to their data.

The problem is that many people don't realize this is happening. A user can set up a computer with a Microsoft account, switch to using a PIN every day, and never think about that account again. Then, one day, after a firmware update, a hardware change, or an unexpected issue, the system may display a BitLocker recovery screen requesting a recovery key.

At that moment, many users discover for the first time that the key is stored in a Microsoft account they may barely remember creating.

As Drakkaar pointed out in the discussion: "Technician's know how to get around this, but not everyone using a computer is a technician."

That's the disconnect the software giant still hasn't solved. What's particularly interesting is that this debate comes as reports suggest there are people inside Microsoft who agree with the criticism. Microsoft Vice President Scott Hanselman has also previously revealed that some employees have been pushing the company to reconsider its mandatory Microsoft account requirement during setup.

However, despite the company's Windows K2 efforts and internal discussions, Microsoft has not committed to restoring a straightforward local account option for all users.

And that's why this conversation continues to surface. A lot of users aren't asking for another workaround. They're asking for a choice, and more importantly, they're asking for a clearer explanation of how features like encryption, account recovery, and cloud integration affect their computers before those decisions are made for them.

Windows Central's Take

I find it interesting that Microsoft is spending so much effort through its Windows K2 initiative trying to rebuild trust with users. Yet, it still hasn't addressed one of the most common complaints about Windows 11 setup.

The local account debate has never been about finding workarounds. If someone wants to bypass Microsoft's requirements, there are plenty of ways to do it. The real issue is that users feel they're losing control over decisions that used to be theirs to make.

I also think Microsoft could avoid much of this criticism by making the online account the default with a local account option, similar to how it works on Windows 10, so people can choose without friction.

Do you think Microsoft should bring back a straightforward local account option during Windows 11 setup? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

I’ve historically been a Windows desktop guy, building my own PCs over the years and spending the majority of my years content with that situation. However, the more I travel to events and conferences, the more I see the value in Windows laptops. In that, I also subject myself to inquisitive family members and friends, who forever ask the same question: “Which laptop should I buy?”

The answer, as I’m sure many of you know, boils down to “it depends”. Naturally, I have a shortlist of the best Windows laptops that are always at the front of my mind. Then again, not everyone has the disposable income to afford my favorite ASUS Zenbook A14 or Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x examples. Here’s where the problems start. Many will then walk into their nearest supermarket (or some other megastore) and pick up the cheapest option available.

It’s not as though affordable laptops are all terrible. On the contrary, the budget laptop bracket is showing signs of significant improvement, as examples like Dell's XPS 13 respond to the introduction of the entry-level MacBook Neo. Annoyingly, few enthusiasts would previously entertain a conversation about $599–$699 Windows laptops in the pre-Neo age, but that’s all changed since Apple made its move. For many, choosing a Windows laptop is still confusing.

A big part of that disorientation comes from an onslaught of specs when shopping, and most people just don’t care. I’d argue that, aside from storage space and a laptop's physical size, the rest is just incidental number-crunching that wouldn’t matter to your average user. If you want to close out your afternoon feeling exhausted, dig into the argument of whether 8GB of RAM is enough for Windows. It all comes back to that linchpin: "It depends."

For me, there is so much more value in a laptop’s weight, display type, and battery life than the waves of other components you could spend all day comparing. However, that longevity aspect depends heavily on your choice of processor, which is one of the worst cans of proverbial worms you could ever open, as Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, and now even NVIDIA ship laptop chips with complex names.

So, who’s to blame, Microsoft? It’s easy to understand the accusation when I look at Apple’s walled garden and how simplistic it can be to shop for a MacBook. But no, it’s not Microsoft’s fault. It even feels disingenuous to accuse manufacturers of saturating the Windows laptop market, because each brand presumably has its reasons for building so many variants. Everyone has different needs, but what is the everyman supposed to do?

Ironically, Microsoft came close to a potential solution with its Copilot+ PC initiative. It was part of the AI PC trend, encouraging buyers to pick up a laptop with a built-in NPU and other comparable components to support local AI apps and features. It’s a mostly forgettable affair, with only the mandatory Copilot key appearing in modern Windows laptops reminding us of its attempts.

Instead, Microsoft could take notes from a certain gaming brand and lean into a 'Seal of Approval' method, curating category flagships from each manufacturer. If you shopped for a certified 'Windows Pro' laptop, it could guarantee a 120Hz display and 32GB of RAM (or higher) with the most powerful mobile processors on the market. Too much? Opt for an imaginary 'Windows Core' alternative that sticks to IPS screens but delivers at least 16GB of memory.

Unfortunately, that implies anything outside this magical certification might be viewed as disposable e-waste, but I think consumers still need help making that distinction, anyway. The real challenge would be convincing all the major laptop brands to get on board, but then again, they already did it for confusing Copilot+ PCs, so how far-fetched could this idea really be?

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Last week was packed full of Windows 11 and Microsoft news. Since then, Xbox has taken center stage, and it's not all good news.

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma explained in an interview that the company's "business isn't particularly healthy" and warned that "tough decisions" are ahead for Xbox.

Microsoft did ship a big Xbox update after Summer Game Fest and the Xbox Showcase, but it's difficult to focus on that right now.

It's a shame that focus got taken away from games like Halo: Campaign Evolved, Fable, Clockwork Revolution, and Gears of War: E-Day. Normally, I'd be thrilled to wax poetic about classic games while pointing out that the reveal of the new Spyro beat Marvel's Wolverine in views.

But when the head of Xbox says the company became "over‑extended" and that major changes are needed, that's the biggest news of the week.

Biggest News of the Week

Our Managing Editor Jez Corden explained how Xbox got to this point, what external factors contributed to the crisis, and what's ahead for Xbox. Instead of rehashing that, I'll focus on just a single question: "Should Xbox CEOs have term limits?"

Phil Spencer saved Xbox. He rebuilt goodwill among gamers, championed cross-play, and engaged with the community from day one as CEO. Throughout his tenure we saw Xbox grow, games become more accessible through Xbox Game Pass, and classics receive the love they deserve.

Spencer also led Xbox for the years leading up to the current crisis. That's not to say Spencer is entirely at fault for the challenges Xbox faces. It's not as if Spencer drove RAM prices through the roof.

But a lot of the "tough decisions" Sharma will have to make are the result of missed opportunities by Xbox over the last decade. The price hike to Xbox Game Pass and major misses by several games compound issues in an already turbulent industry.

Xbox would not be where it is today without Spencer. The real question is whether Spencer should have stepped aside after saving the brand, and whether Sharma should do the same once her reset is complete.

Shopping with Sean

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Windows 11 has a new command-line terminal with AI agent integration, but don't worry, Microsoft's not adding AI to the Windows Terminal. Instead, the company forked the open-source terminal project and created a new tool known as "Intelligent Terminal."

The tool was introduced during the company's developer conference (Build 2026), and it's basically the Windows Terminal you already know, which comes with a side panel that lets you interact with the GitHub Copilot agent by default.

The tool is being advertised as an assistant that you can use to explain errors, build commands, and troubleshoot issues without leaving the terminal to complete the research in other applications, such as the browser.

In my opinion, Microsoft took the right approach by forking a new version of the original tool rather than integrating Copilot into the existing Windows Terminal. This was a smart approach to avoid another AI backlash.

In this guide, I'll outline everything you need to know about the Intelligent Terminal.

Intelligent Terminal for Windows 11

The Intelligent Terminal won't come as part of the default Windows 11 setup. Instead, it's a tool that you have to download and install manually.

You can access this command-line tool by launching the Windows Terminal as an administrator from the Start menu and then running the "winget install Microsoft.IntelligentTerminal" command.

When you run the terminal for the first time, you'll choose which Agent Client Protocol (ACP) compatible agent to use in the Agent pane. Intelligent Terminal automatically detects agents installed on your computer, with GitHub Copilot appearing as the default option when available.

From the initial setup, you can also enable automatic error detection and suggestions, session management, and pane positioning within the terminal.

One thing to note is that during the setup, enabling error detection installs shell integration that allows Intelligent Terminal to monitor command failures. In contrast, session management installs hooks that track agent activity across terminal sessions.

Terminal interface

The terminal with AI integration offers two main experiences, including agent chat and agent management.

The agent chat pane can be accessed through the toggle at the bottom-left (if you're using a bottom position), or by pressing the "Ctrl + Shift + ." (period) keyboard shortcut. Or use the "Ctrl + Shift + I" shortcut to hide it.

In this area, that's where you'll also find the error detection icon, which lights up whenever a fixable error is detected. Of course, you can always bring up the chat page to manually ask to explain an error or anything you need.

Now, if the agent has to complete multiple tasks or something complex, it'll run a background task automatically without leaving you out of focus.

The idea behind the experience is for the terminal to lend a hand and help you resolve command-line-related issues without breaking your current flow by having to jump to another app, like the browser, for research.

Although the default agent is GitHub Copilot, you can use Claude Code, Google Gemini, and OpenAI Codex. Also, since the terminal uses the open ACP standard, you're not limited to cloud-based AI agents. However, you'll have to install the agent CLI locally on your computer before the Intelligent Terminal can see it.

Agent management pane

Also, at the bottom-right (assuming you're using the bottom position) is the agent management icon, which opens the session management pane. Microsoft has also assigned the "Ctrl + Shift + /" keyboard shortcut.

On the management pane, the Intelligent Terminal will track your active and past agent sessions. At any time, you can jump back to any specific activity.

In other words, it's a central hub to view all agent activity. Using this experience, you can view every AI agent currently running, check task details, monitor long-running tasks, resume previous sessions, and dismiss completed tasks.

For instance, imagine you have multiple tabs, including one creating a Python script and another running tests and fixing errors, without agent management, you'd need to remember which tab contains which task.

On the other hand, with the agent Management panel, you can open one view and see all the details.

Command Palette with AI

Intelligent Terminal also extends the Command Palette with AI actions. By using the "Alt + Shift + /" keyboard shortcut followed by a request, you can send the current terminal context to an agent and start a task without interrupting your workflow.

The agent runs in the background while you continue working in the active terminal session.

Intelligent Terminal settings

When you open the settings for this (Windows) Terminal with AI integration, you'll be able to customize the terminal as well as agent settings.

First, you have control over the AI agents, depending on the agents previously installed on your computer.

Second, from this page, you can change the pane position, as well as configure automatic error detection and error suggestions.

If you ever change any of the settings, remember to click the "Save" button. Sometimes, I even forget, and I assume the changes apply automatically, but that's not the case in the terminal.

Windows Central's Take

I think Microsoft made the right call by keeping AI out of the Windows Terminal and building a separate experience instead. Over the last few years, we've seen the company add AI to everything from the Settings app to Notepad, and not every integration has landed well with users. Developers tend to be especially protective of their tools, so forcing AI into an established terminal experience would have likely created unnecessary friction.

At the same time, I can see the appeal of the Intelligent Terminal. Looking up command syntax, troubleshooting errors, and figuring out why something failed usually means jumping between the terminal, browser tabs, support pages, and forums. If the AI can help reduce those context switches without getting in the way, it could become a genuinely useful productivity tool.

What are your thoughts about Intelligent Terminal and AI-powered command-line tools? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

After taking one week off from builds, Microsoft just shipped six Windows Insider builds to wrap up the week. New features and fixes await Insiders across several different channels.

Given the more linear nature of the revamped Windows Insider Program, we've already seen several of the features included in today's builds. For example, Insiders in the Beta (26H1) Channel can now try Screen tint. That same feature already shipped to Insiders in the Experimental Channel, so we've gone hands-on with Screen tint.

I'll focus on the features in Experimental Preview Build 26300.8687 here, but you can follow the quick links to see the full change logs for all of today's builds.

The biggest change in this update is that Microsoft is laying the groundwork for your PC to receive fewer updates. Microsoft plans to reduce the number of times you need to reboot your PC each month by coordinating driver, .NET, and firmware updates to align with other Windows updates.

The update improves File Explorer by adding support for middle clicking to open a folder in the Address Bar. Search is now "more forgiving" of typos, dropped letters, and partial words.

Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26300.8687

Changes and improvements gradually being rolled out

Windows Update

• As announced in the Windows Update announce blog, we are now bringing a new unified update experience to reduce the number of reboots you see per month. We are starting by coordinating driver, .NET, and firmware updates to align with the monthly quality update, reducing the update experience to a single monthly restart. See the blog for more information.

File Explorer

• Middle click to open a folder in a new tab is now supported in the Address Bar and the Home page for a more consistent and efficient tabbed navigation experience across File Explorer.
• Improved screen reader announcements for conflict resolution dialog ("Which files do you want to keep?") when moving / copying files.
• Made some more improvements to how File Explorer responds to increased text scaling.

Search

• Finding apps is more forgiving. Search is better at handling typos, dropped letters, extra letters, and partial words for apps. Queries like “utlook” can still find Outlook.
• Settings results are improving. We’ve made ranking improvements to help more relevant settings appear higher in results.

Taskbar

• Improved reliability of loading the system tray area of the taskbar.
• Fixed an issue where tooltips might unexpectedly appear on top of the Start menu icon in the taskbar when using the taskbar in an alternate position. Also fixed a few other visual polish issues when using the taskbar with small icons.

Windows setup

• The digital safety of users and supporting families is central to how we think about the Windows experience. We're improving information on parental controls and their availability during Windows setup, so families can more easily understand available protections and make informed choices from the very beginning.

Input

• Update: The emoji panel (Windows key + period (.)) now uses GIPHY as the GIF provider, delivering a smoother GIF browsing and sharing experience following the deprecation of Tenor.
• Fixed an issue which was causing the mouse cursor to potentially move in the wrong direction in recent Insider builds on secondary monitors when set to portrait mode.

Remote Recovery Management

• Adding recovery remote management plug-in for extending WinRE management capabilities for MDM providers

Audio

• Fixed an issue resulting in audio not working for some Insiders after the latest flights.

Settings

• Fixed an issue impacting the reliability of Settings > Apps > Installed Apps after the latest flights.

General Reliability

• If you were experiencing freezes in the previous flight when interacting with search, Notepad, or certain other scenarios, that should be resolved now.

Other

• When using dark mode, if you open "Run new task" from Task Manager it will now show in dark mode too.

Which Windows Insider Channel are you in?

With so many changes to the Windows Insider Program, I'm curious which types of builds you receive on your PC. Are you in an Experimental channel or a more stable one? Or do you just catch up on release notes and keep your PC on a public release build?

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has announced a major update to the release schedule for its Edge web browser on all platforms that will see the company release new versions of the app on a much faster cadence; now every two weeks instead of once a month.

"Microsoft Edge is moving to a two-week release cycle, bringing new features and improvements to users and organizations faster than ever," says Microsoft in a blog post published earlier today. "For customers on Stable, the practical effect of the new cycle is smaller, steadier change. Each release brings about half as much new content as before, delivered twice as often."

This means that although the browser will be updated more often, users are unlikely to notice an uptick in feature quantity. The more frequent updates will be half as big, which should balance out to about the same amount of features and changes being delivered monthly.

Microsoft says that this change is good for users and enterprises as it means "security and platform improvements reach your users faster, and each change set is smaller, which can make validation more manageable."

For those uninterested in a faster update cycle for Microsoft Edge, the company already offers a longer-term servicing channel known as Stable Extended which isn't changing schedule. This release channel is updated once every two months, and that's remaining unchanged.

For everyone else on the normal Stable channel, Microsoft says to expect this new two-week release cycle to kick into gear with Edge 152, which is expected to debut on August 27. That means Edge Stable has just a couple of more months on the current release schedule before things are kicked up a notch.

This change is taking place to align with Google Chrome, which announced that it too was moving to a two week release cycle back in March.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

As part of the June 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 (including the one for Windows 10), Microsoft has quietly changed how the operating system handles folder customizations, and some users may think that the company is shipping once again a buggy update.

The software giant has updated its release notes for the June 2026 Security Update, introducing a new security hardening measure that can prevent custom folder icons and localized folder names from appearing when they rely on a "desktop.ini" file from an untrusted source.

The change affects supported versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11 after installing the latest security updates.

Your folders aren't broken

At first glance, the issue may look like a bug. A folder that previously displayed a custom icon might suddenly revert to the standard yellow folder, while a localized folder name could disappear and show its original name instead.

Even though the user didn't change anything and no application settings were modified, Microsoft says this behavior is expected.

Windows 11 (and 10) now ignores "desktop.ini" files when it cannot confirm that the file originated from a trusted location. The company says files downloaded from the internet, content carrying the Mark-of-the-Web (MOTW) security tag, some WebDAV locations, and certain network paths may be treated as untrusted.

The folders still work normally, and the files inside remain accessible. Only the cosmetic customization is removed.

Microsoft is targeting a forgotten feature

While the visual changes may catch users by surprise, they are really the result of a broader effort to lock down parts of the system that could be exploited.

On Windows 11, the "desktop.ini" is one of those old technologies that most people never think about. For decades, it has allowed folders to change their appearance, display custom names, and behave differently inside File Explorer, and that flexibility also creates an opportunity for abuse.

A malicious individual doesn't always need to exploit a vulnerability to make content look more trustworthy. Sometimes changing an icon, altering a folder name, or disguising content is enough to trick users into opening something they shouldn't.

Microsoft's latest update treats folder presentation as a trust problem rather than a design feature.

How to restore custom icons

Microsoft recommends adding trusted internal sources to the "Trusted Sites" list when organizations need folder customizations to continue working.

You can do this from Control Panel > Network and Internet > Internet Options, and from the "Security" tab, select the "Trusted Sites" option, and then add the source in the "Sites" list.

Businesses that require broader compatibility can also enable the "Allow the use of remote paths in file shortcut icons" policy through the Group Policy Editor, which restores the previous behavior. However, Microsoft warns that doing so reduces protection against potentially malicious remote content.

The policy is located on Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer.

Users can also remove the Mark-of-the-Web tag from trusted "desktop.ini" files using PowerShell, allowing the operating system to process the customization again.

To remove the mark tag, open PowerShell (admin) and run one of the following commands for a single file: Unblock-File "C:\folder\path\desktop.ini"

Or for all "desktop.ini" files in a folder, run this command: Get-ChildItem "C:\folder\path" -Recurse -Filter desktop.ini -Force | Unblock-File​​​​​​​

This is a small change on the surface. Yet it reflects a larger trend inside the system. Features that once prioritized flexibility are increasingly being evaluated through a security lens, even if that means some parts of the operating system suddenly look a little less familiar.

Windows Central's Take

I actually think this is the right move, even if it's going to confuse some users at first. When folder icons suddenly revert to the default yellow icon, the natural reaction is to assume Windows Update broke something. However, in this case, Microsoft is intentionally choosing security over customization.

Over the years, I've seen the company gradually tighten controls around older features designed for a very different internet. Technologies that made sense when trust was assumed are now being re-evaluated because they can be used to make content look more legitimate than it really is. Custom folder icons and names may seem harmless, but they can also be used to disguise files and folders in ways that trick less experienced users.

For most people, this change probably won't have any noticeable impact beyond the occasional missing custom icon. Organizations and enthusiasts who rely on these customizations will have a few extra steps to restore them. However, I'd rather see the company add friction to untrusted content than preserve convenience at the expense of security.

What are your thoughts about this change to folder customizations on Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

I was at Computex last week, and one of the biggest announcements of the show was the new Dell XPS 13.

Starting at $599 for students and $699 for everyone else, it's nothing but prime competition for the MacBook Neo, and it's aimed straight at students searching out an affordable-but-premium device.

In fact, I put together an XPS 13 vs. MacBook Neo comparison shortly after returning home from Taiwan. Unsurprisingly, the most common argument against the XPS 13's perceived value is its baseline 8GB of RAM.

👉 I tried the new $599 Dell XPS 13, and I can't believe how good it is: MacBook Neo is no longer the best deal in computing

But wait, the MacBook Neo also has 8GB of RAM, and no option to upgrade either, unlike the XPS 13. Well, the argument here is that macOS doesn't require as much memory as Windows 11, making the 8GB maximum a non-issue. That's an argument for another day; this is Windows Central, where we focus on Windows PCs.

It's been quite a while since I used Windows 11 with anything less than 16GB of RAM, so I thought I should test it out. Here's what I found out.

How I tested Windows 11 on 8GB of RAM

For this test, ideally, I'd like to have a modern system with an Intel Core Series 3 chip and integrated LPDDR5x memory, just like the new XPS 13 (launching June 16, 2026) or the new $699 Acer Swift Air 14, also announced at Computex.

Instead, I ripped one stick out of an older Windows 11 desktop I had lying around, leaving 8GB of single-channel (and relatively slow) DDR4-2666MT/s RAM paired with an Intel Core i5-10400 CPU.

This is about as bad as it gets compared to something like the new XPS 13's System-on-Chip (SoC) with speedy integrated LPDDR5x RAM and 60GB/s memory bandwidth. For comparison, the DDR4 RAM in the desktop I'm using for comparison shows only 10.6GB/s bandwidth.

In any case, I'm more interested in how quickly 8GB of RAM fills up when going about the tasks a student would regularly tackle. Note that this PC has been in use for some time now; it's not a fresh Windows 11 install, so that should give a better idea of real-world use.

Heavy browser usage with 8GB of RAM

The first test I performed involved heavy web browsing. I opened 10 tabs in Edge: 4K YouTube streaming, Netflix, Gmail, Reddit, Airtable, our CMS, and general webpages.

Memory usage didn't climb above 6.6GB with all these webpages open. Closing the 4K video stream YouTube tab, memory usage fell to 5.7GB.

Poking around with these tabs open (sans 4K stream), memory use fluctuated between the 5.7GB low and 6.0GB. So far so good.

Adding more apps alongside heavy browser usage

I know that students aren't just using a browser, so I added in the GIMP app for photo editing, Spotify for music streaming, and Microsoft Word for writing. All with the same ten tabs open, including YouTube streaming at 4K.

Memory usage pushed up to 7.2GB under these conditions, but the system showed no signs of slowing down. The 4K video stream did get choppy, but that falls on the older CPU/GPU.

I was able to resize and edit images without delay, and switching apps was just as snappy as ever.

Moving my workload to a PC with 8GB of RAM

I was so impressed with the PC's performance on 8GB of RAM that I finished out the rest of my workday on the system, determined to find the breaking point.

I'd say that I'm handling the same type of work that a student might tackle: writing, heavy web browsing, photo editing, streaming, etc. I didn't try heavy gaming or any specialized apps that are known to chew up RAM. These aren't tasks that $699 Windows laptops are made for.

Surprise? Maybe not, but the PC ran fine under my needs. The only time I found the breaking point was when I opened a huge article in our CMS, a task that regularly bricks my main work PC with 32GB of RAM. No difference there, really.

Is 8GB of RAM enough for a smooth Windows 11 experience?

I honestly wasn't expecting these tests to go as smoothly as they did. Having used PCs with 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB RAM for so long, I thought surely 8GB would immediately pose problems.

That's just not the case. Within reason, running Windows 11 on 8GB of RAM is not only viable but quite enjoyable. Assuming you're not attempting to run some specialized design software or a demanding game, there's quite a bit of memory runway to work with.

An idle system might sit at around 3.8GB of RAM usage, but the remaining 4GB or so is apparently more than enough for general productivity, multitasking, streaming, and photo editing.

Dell's strategy with its new XPS 13 is to hook fresh users (especially students) with a low introductory price, premium design and features, long battery life, and snappy performance.

Just like the MacBook Neo, the baseline XPS 13 isn't intended to run every single app and game out there. Just like Apple, Dell has plenty of other XPS devices (or even an XPS 13 with more RAM) that can fill those advanced needs.

Considering the biggest argument I've seen so far against the XPS 13 is that Windows 11 doesn't run well on 8GB, those detractors will soon have to find a different avenue of attack.

Is macOS still more efficient than Windows? Probably. Does that mean Windows 11 is useless on 8GB of RAM? Evidently not.

Haven't we seen this before?

My tests with an 8GB Windows 11 system remind me of the time our Editor-in-Chief, Daniel Rubino, trolled everyone by running games on an "8GB" version of the original Surface Go from 2018.

After showing how smoothly the games were running, it was revealed that the video was shot using the 4GB RAM model as a test bed.

I could have probably done something similar here; after all, 4GB Windows 11 laptops are still being sold at some retailers. Instead, I'll save that sort of trickery for another day.

The bottom line: Windows 11 runs better than I expected on 8GB of RAM

Dell's new XPS 13 launches on June 16, and the new Acer Swift Air 14 is expected to arrive in NA markets in August 2026. I'm hoping we get our hands on 8GB models to test the Windows 11 experience directly.

In any case, I expect these laptops to be wildly popular not only for students, but also for general users who are fed up with Windows PCs that live up to their "cheap" pricing in all the wrong ways.

The bottom line? Windows 11 ran a lot better than I expected on 8GB of RAM, even when multitasking with multiple browser tabs, video streams, a photo editor, music, and more.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has announced major customization upgrades coming soon to the Start menu on Windows 11, addressing top feedback and requests from users for enabling control over what does and doesn't appear when you open it.

The new customization options are now available in preview via the Windows 11 Insider Program, and I've been testing the new changes over the last week. It's awesome to see so many new options available for users to configure, but it makes me wonder why this wasn't added sooner.

So, what's new in regards to customization? Well, users can now fully configure which segments of the Start menu actually appear. Up until now, the Start menu has consisted of three main segments: Pinned, Recommended, and All apps.

These segments have historically been fixed, but users now have the option to toggle off individual segments should they choose. All the Start menu's customization options are present in the Windows Settings app, or by right-clicking an empty space in Start and selecting "Start settings."

Once in the Settings page, you'll see three categories that represent the different segments in Start. In addition to being able to turn off the segments, two of the categories have their own configurable options that users can now customize too.

For example, for the Recommended feed, you now have the option of choosing the kind of things that show up there. If you don't want to see recommended apps, but do want to see recent files and installed apps, you can make it so.

Being able to outright turn off segments of the Start menu is a super nice addition. I don't usually find use in the Recommended feed, and so being able to toggle it off and save space within the Start menu is great. You can mix and match different configurations depending on your needs too.

Unfortunately, you can't customize the order of the segments. Meaning Pinned is always at the top (unless disabled,) followed by Recommended and All apps. If you wanted Pinned apps at the bottom, for example, that's not something you can do currently.

In addition to being able to hide and customize the segments, Microsoft is also adding the ability to adjust the size of the Start menu. There's two options to choose from: small and large, and by default Windows is set to choose the size based on your screen size.

However, if you don't like the automatic choice, you can now override it and select which side you want, regardless of screen size. That means I can now set the small Start menu to appear on my 32-inch monitor, which looks great.

Lastly, Microsoft has added the ability to hide your user account name and profile picture. This is handy for those who may be presenting, and don't want to share any personal details through the Start menu. It's a nice addition, but not super important.

These are all great improvements, and the level of adjustability is quite surprising. Being able to essentially outright disable the Start menu isn't something that was on my bingo card in 2026, but I'm more than happy to see it be an option for those who do want that kind of configurability.

With that said, I think there's more room for improvement. As mentioned above, I think it would be awesome if we could reposition the different sections of Start. Furthermore, I'd love the ability to drag to resize the Start menu, as currently the only way to do that is via the drop-down menu in Settings.

I also think it would be cool if users were given the option to turn off the Start button in the Taskbar when all sections of the Start menu are disabled. By extension, maybe Windows should let the user remap what the Windows key does when Start is disabled? I wouldn't mind being able to set it to open the Search pane instead, for example.

Overall, I am really happy and excited to see Microsoft adding more customization options to Windows 11, even if many users likely won't want to or be interested in customizing the Start menu. As someone who does like to curate this interface, these improvements are welcomed in my eyes.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft is working on a new accessibility feature for Windows 11 known as "Screen Tint," and it could become a useful option for anyone who spends long hours in front of a monitor.

Currently, the feature is available through the Windows Insider Program, and it introduces a system-wide color overlay designed to make the desktop easier on the eyes. Unlike the "Color filters" feature that focuses on accessibility requirements such as color blindness, Screen Tint is aimed at overall viewing comfort, allowing users to adjust the visual tone of the entire operating system.

Once enabled, the overlay applies across the desktop and apps, creating a more consistent viewing experience without requiring third-party tools.

Windows 11's new Screen Tint feature

Screen Tint appears under Settings > Accessibility > Screen Tint, where Microsoft describes the feature as a way to "show a color overlay on your display to reduce eye strain and improve viewing comfort."

The setting is disabled by default, but turning it on reveals several preset tint profiles along with options for further customization.

Windows 11 currently provides six built-in presets, including:

• Amber for extended screen sessions.
• Rose tint for users sensitive to fluorescent lighting or migraine triggers.
• Yellow to reduce visual stress while reading.
• Blue for glare sensitivity in bright environments.
• Green to soften harsh white backgrounds.
• Gray for users who find high-contrast displays tiring.

On the page, there's also a "Custom" tint option that lets users choose any color they prefer.

Furthermore, there's a dedicated Strength slider that controls how intense the color overlay appears. Rather than forcing users into predefined filter levels, Screen Tint allows fine-tuned adjustments based on personal preference, lighting conditions, or specific visual sensitivities.

Not the same as Color Filters

While Screen Tint may look similar to Windows 11's existing Color Filters feature at first glance, the two tools serve different purposes.

Color Filters are primarily designed as accessibility aids for users with color vision deficiencies. On the other hand, Screen Tint appears focused on comfort and visual fatigue reduction.

Microsoft notes that enabling Screen Tint automatically disables Color Filters, meaning only one feature can be active at a time.

Windows Central's Take

I wasn't expecting a feature like Screen Tint, but I can see why the company is exploring it. While the operating system already includes Color Filters and other display adjustments, Screen Tint appears to offer a more flexible way to adjust the overall screen appearance based on personal comfort rather than a specific accessibility need.

The ability to fine-tune the overlay's color and intensity could be useful for people who spend long hours in front of a monitor, especially since everyone experiences screen fatigue differently.

Of course, this is still an experimental feature, so there's no guarantee it'll ship in its current form. However, I generally like seeing the software giant continue to expand the personalization and accessibility options available on Windows 11.

What are your thoughts about the new Screen Tint feature on Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

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