context menu Archives

Winsage

June 9, 2026

Microsoft reveals Windows 11 will bulk delete files at least 30% faster, and it’s only the start

Microsoft is working on enhancements for File Explorer on Windows 11 to improve speed and efficiency, particularly in batch file deletions. Internal testing is underway for a performance boost, with potential speed increases of over 30% for bulk deletions following an upcoming update. Other file operations, such as transfers and copies, are also set to become faster. The company aims to improve launch times, reduce flickering, and eliminate distracting flashes in dark mode. Users have already noticed faster launch times and better handling of file names and paths. Microsoft is testing a preloading feature for File Explorer and plans to revamp the right-click menu for faster loading and a streamlined appearance. Additionally, the company is exploring ways to minimize File Explorer’s memory footprint and modernize legacy elements. Microsoft plans to introduce up to 19 new features by 2026, including a movable taskbar and a customizable Start menu.

Winsage

June 7, 2026

It’s not just you: Microsoft says Windows 11’s right-click menu has been quietly slow for years

Windows 11's modern context menu has been criticized for being slower than Windows 10, especially for users with lower-end PCs. Enabling extensions like “Edit with Clipchamp,” “Edit with Notepad,” and “Ask Copilot” can cause delays, leading to misclicks. Microsoft has acknowledged these performance issues and is working on solutions. In March 2026, the company announced plans for a significant update to improve Windows 11, focusing on core functionalities. The right-click context menu has been a key area for improvement, with delays in loading options causing frustration. Microsoft confirmed that these delays are due to late-loading extensions and is testing a streamlined context menu that reduces vertical space by 25% or more. A new nested menu titled “Manage file” has been introduced to organize file-related operations. Additionally, Microsoft is developing a configurable context menu for user personalization, addressing previous customization limitations.

Winsage

June 5, 2026

Microsoft Promises Customizable Windows Right-Click Menus

Microsoft is working on a more efficient, streamlined, and customizable right-click context menu for Windows File Explorer and Desktop interactions, responding to user feedback about the cluttered nature of existing menus. The initiative aims to improve user experience by allowing customization, which marks a shift from Microsoft's previous rigid approach. Developers will need to adapt to new APIs and guidelines for context menu interactions, and there may be restrictions on the number of items that can be added. Performance improvements are also planned to address slow-loading context menus. The timeline for implementation is uncertain, but updates may first appear through Windows Insider testing channels. The changes are part of Microsoft's broader strategy to modernize Windows 11 and improve basic functionalities like file management and interface responsiveness. Customizable context menus could provide enterprise IT departments with new management options, and the initiative reflects Microsoft's awareness of competition from other operating systems.

Winsage

June 5, 2026

Windows 11’s right-click menu is finally getting more customizable, and it’s about time

Microsoft is introducing customizable options for the right-click context menu in Windows 11, allowing users to add, remove, and reorder items. This change aims to streamline the interface and improve usability by addressing concerns about the menu's clutter. Marcus Ash, the Design and Research Lead for Windows and Devices at Microsoft, confirmed that the context menu will load faster and feature simplified default settings. This update is part of Microsoft's broader K2 strategy, which includes a visual overhaul of legacy features, a vertical Taskbar, and enhancements to the Start Menu. A specific timeline for these updates has not been provided, but they are expected to roll out in the coming months.

Winsage

June 4, 2026

Windows 11’s cluttered and controversial context menus are going away

Marcus Ash, the Vice President of Design and Research for Windows & Devices, announced that Microsoft is committed to improving context menus in Windows 11 to make them "faster and simpler by default." The company is working on a more streamlined approach that allows users to customize their menus based on frequently used options. Microsoft has previously indicated a split context menu design that categorizes options by relevance, such as a dedicated "Photos" menu for image-related actions. The broader Windows K2 initiative aims to enhance the performance of context menus, although users still report inconsistencies across the operating system and its applications. There is anticipation for changes in File Explorer, including the possible removal of the AI actions section.

Winsage

June 4, 2026

In a shock move from nowhere, it seems Microsoft is finally giving Windows 11 users the ability to configure the right-click menu

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11's right-click menu based on user feedback, aiming to make it faster and simpler by reducing the number of initial entries displayed. Users will have the ability to customize the context menu to show their most frequently used options. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve Windows 11, which includes plans to revamp the Start menu for greater customization.

Winsage

June 4, 2026

Microsoft admits Windows 11’s right-click menu is a mess, will let you customize it after years of complaints

Microsoft is updating the right-click context menu in Windows 11, allowing users to customize it by adding or removing items. The new context menu will load faster and provide a more streamlined experience. Marcus Ash from Microsoft highlighted that the context menu will be configurable based on user preferences. The update aims to address previous criticisms regarding the cluttered and slower performance of the context menu compared to Windows 10. Microsoft will retain access to the classic context menu through the “Show more options” feature. Additionally, other customization options for Windows 11, such as repositioning the taskbar and resizing the Start menu, are being introduced.

Winsage

June 3, 2026

Hands-On: The New Windows 11 Taskbar

Microsoft is refining the Taskbar in Windows 11 as part of its updates within the Windows Insider Program. The Taskbar has undergone significant changes, including a centered layout and the removal of features like relocating it to different screen edges. Users can now align the Taskbar to the left, toggle visibility for Search, Task view, and Widgets, and drag files to app shortcuts. A Mute/Unmute microphone button has also been introduced. Microsoft has acknowledged user feedback regarding the Taskbar's size and functionality, with plans to allow repositioning and a smaller version of the Taskbar. As of late May, a new build introduced options for Taskbar positioning and smaller taskbar buttons, allowing users to place the Taskbar at the top or sides of the screen.

Winsage

May 29, 2026

Windows quality update: May

Recent visits to Hyderabad and Taipei have reinforced Windows' commitment to improving user experience, with insights from local Windows Insiders informing preparations for the upcoming Build event. This month focuses on momentum in performance and refinement, with advancements in core functionalities like File Explorer and search capabilities, supported by architectural enhancements. New personalization features for the Taskbar and Start menu have been rolled out, allowing users to reposition the taskbar, choose icon alignment, and utilize app labels. The Start menu has been updated to better align with workflows, offering controls to show or hide sections and adjust size for privacy. The Driver Quality Initiative (DQI) was unveiled at WinHEC 2026 to improve driver quality, reliability, and security, along with Cloud Initiated Driver Recovery for better driver maintenance. Significant updates to File Explorer include improved reliability, readability, and usability, such as support for specific path formats and enhanced dropdown functionality. Accessibility enhancements include Voice Isolation in Voice Access to improve command recognition in noisy environments, expanded personalization options like screen tint adjustments, and new gesture controls for precision touchpads. The Microsoft Build keynote is scheduled for 9:30 AM PT on Tuesday, and a new podcast series, Inside Windows, has been launched to provide insights into ongoing work in Windows.

Winsage

May 18, 2026

Microsoft admits Windows users ‘experienced some challenges’ with the forced CoPilot key — now it’s finally doing something about it

Microsoft introduced a dedicated Copilot key with its Copilot+ PCs, marking a significant change in Windows keyboard design after three decades. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with the key, particularly those who rely on the Right Ctrl or Context menu keys for shortcuts and assistive technologies. Microsoft acknowledged these challenges and announced that a future Windows 11 update will allow users to remap the Copilot key to function as either the Context menu key or Right Ctrl key. While some PC manufacturers have provided their own remapping solutions, they often require additional steps. The timeline for the update is unspecified, but major updates typically occur in October or September.