“When we get it right, we celebrate together. When we don’t, you push us to improve.”: Microsoft leans on Windows Insiders as it tries to reset Windows 11’s reputation

Windows 11 is being revamped, and Microsoft is here to show that it's keeping its promise. Windows K2 is an ongoing effort by the company to improve Windows 11, rebuild user trust, and shake off the negative sentiment surrounding the operating system.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said the tech giant is "doing the work required to win back fans across Windows and Xbox." A Windows blog post by Marcus Ash details some of that work.

"Two themes have stood out in my conversations with you. First, you want more transparency. You want to see what we’re doing, understand our decisions, and see progress through shipping. Second, a shared sense of pride. We want to be proud of what we build, and as Insiders, you’re proud to be the first to guide us with your feedback. When we get it right, we celebrate together. When we don’t, you push us to improve."

Since committing to improve Windows 11, Microsoft has restructured the Windows Insider Program, promised fan-favorite features, and started testing some long-awaited improvements. Ash's blog post highlights the following features and changes that have started rolling out to Windows Insiders:

• Clearer controls for Windows Insider features
• Smoother Windows Updates with less disruption
• A simplified UI for inbox apps
• Faster and more reliable File Explorer performance
• More control over widgets
• Improved overall system performance

Since these are all rolling out to Windows Insiders, we've already touched on them. But Ash's post serves as a quick recap that illustrates real change happening at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Washington.

One of the first major changes was rebooting the Windows Insider Program. With clearer channels that make sense, transparent options for enabling or disabling features, and a simplified experience for moving between channels, Insiders are more likely to test features and send feedback.

It's smart of Microsoft to revamp the Windows Insider Program first, since ignoring feedback is a large reason user trust in Microsoft eroded.

Looking ahead

Ash teased what's ahead for Windows 11:

"I’m excited to share more on that work later this month, including how we’re improving Taskbar and Start, as well [as] the work underway to enhance Search."

Our Senior Editor Zac Bowden shared that Microsoft will rebuild the Start menu from scratch with WinUI 3. The new Start menu will be up to 60% faster and more responsive.

There will also be more customization options for the Start menu. Microsoft reportedly plans to get rid of ads in the Start menu as well.

It seems like we won't have to wait long to see some of those changes enter testing.

We'll update our Windows K2 status tracker as more features enter testing and roll out to everyone.

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