customizable Start menu Archives

Winsage

November 16, 2025

New Windows 11 Copilot ad accidentally shows AI fumbling a basic text size setting

Microsoft's Copilot experienced a mishap during a promotional campaign with Tech YouTuber Judner Aura, where it incorrectly guided him to the Display settings instead of the Accessibility settings for adjusting text size. Copilot also recommended a text size percentage that was already selected, leading Judner to choose a higher percentage. The video simplified the demonstration, omitting details about enabling Copilot Vision and selecting the app screen. Windows social media accounts are heavily promoting Copilot, but users have expressed dissatisfaction with the AI's integration into Windows, raising concerns about its effectiveness. Despite these issues, the recent Windows 11 November 2025 update introduced enhancements like a customizable Start menu and improved gaming performance.

Winsage

November 13, 2025

Tested: The Task Manager bug that slowed your PC is gone in Windows 11 Build 26200.7171

Microsoft has released the Windows 11 November 2025 Update (Build 26200.7171/26100.7171 or newer), which fixes an issue where the Task Manager did not close properly when the Close (X) button was clicked. This problem, first observed after the October optional update (KB5067036), caused multiple invisible instances of the Task Manager to accumulate, consuming 20-25 MB of RAM and 0 to 1.5% of CPU resources, leading to performance degradation. Microsoft confirmed that the October update inadvertently caused this issue while attempting to fix a grouping problem within the Task Manager. The November update (KB5068861) resolves the bug, restoring the expected functionality of the Task Manager. Users can check for lingering instances by opening the Task Manager and observing if multiple instances appear after closing and reopening it.

Winsage

October 26, 2025

I used older Windows versions, and I think nostalgia has blinded us

Windows XP was the first operating system for many users in the early 2000s but had limitations like cumbersome multitasking and limited customization options. Windows Vista introduced enhanced customization and a search bar but faced criticism for intrusive User Account Control and performance issues. Windows 7 improved user experience and performance but still lacked features like a customizable Start menu and virtual desktops. Windows 8.1 was criticized for its chaotic interface that disrupted desktop users' workflows, despite introducing app snapping and an improved File Explorer. Windows 10 incorporated effective multitasking and a customizable Start menu but received criticism for its bland aesthetics. Windows 11 brought advancements in multitasking and built-in app functionality, along with enhanced security features, but faced challenges like upselling during setup and some users finding unnecessary features.

Winsage

October 20, 2025

Microsoft highlights all the new features that have shipped on Windows 11 in 2025 — and promises more to come

Microsoft has announced a series of enhancements for Windows 11, which will be available or rolling out through 2025. Key updates include a revamped File Explorer featuring an AI Actions menu and a redesigned home page, as well as an upgraded Widgets board powered by Copilot Discover. Quality-of-life improvements have been made, including a visual refresh of Windows Hello and updated context menus. For Copilot+ PC users, a new homepage interface for Windows Recall has been introduced, along with an AI agent in Windows Settings for easier navigation. A more customizable Start menu is expected to debut later this year, along with a consistent dark mode theme and advanced AI capabilities in the future.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

If Windows 12 is anything like this concept, I’d switch from Windows 11 (or 10) in a heartbeat

A new concept video titled 'Windows 12.2' has been created by YouTuber 'AR 4789', showcasing a refined vision for Microsoft's operating system. The video features a clean interface inspired by Apple's Liquid Glass and includes elements like the Aero transparency effect from Windows Vista. It presents nostalgic features such as a Windows 7 theme and various customizable taskbar options. However, the likelihood of Microsoft adopting these ideas is uncertain, especially given the mixed reception of Windows 11. Observers suggest that any future iteration will need to represent significant advancements rather than incremental updates. Microsoft may focus on maintaining Windows 11 with annual updates while investing in a more AI-centric operating system.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

Microsoft is finally addressing my biggest issue with the Taskbar and multi-monitor support on Windows 11

Microsoft is testing a new feature in Windows 11 preview builds that allows users to access the notification center and calendar flyout on secondary displays. Previously, users could only interact with the system tray on their primary monitor. This enhancement aims to improve the multi-monitor experience by enabling users to see their calendar and a larger clock on any monitor. The feature is being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels, with general availability expected soon. Other recent updates include improvements in energy saver functionality, a revamped BSOD screen, and a customizable Start menu.

Winsage

June 26, 2025

4 beloved features from Windows history that Windows 11 got rid of

Users have expressed dissatisfaction with Windows 11 due to the removal of familiar features. Key grievances include the elimination of local accounts, which required users to create Microsoft accounts for access; a static Start menu that lacks customization options; a Taskbar with reduced customization capabilities; and a revamped right-click menu that is more minimalist and less intuitive. Many users feel that these changes have made the operating system less user-friendly and hope for the reinstatement of beloved features.

Winsage

February 24, 2025

Microsoft changes Windows 11’s Start menu for the better (gasp) while introducing nifty new file sharing options

Windows 11 is testing a new preview build (22635.4950) in the Beta channel, featuring enhancements for user experience. Notable updates include a revamped file-sharing feature that allows drag-and-drop functionality to applications like WhatsApp, My Phone, and Microsoft Teams. The Start menu is being redesigned with options for a grid view and a category view in the 'All apps' section. The grid view expands horizontally to display more apps, while the category view organizes apps into groups based on function. The update also improves accessibility support in File Explorer and addresses several bugs. These features are expected to appear in Dev builds soon and are nearing public release.

Winsage

November 20, 2024

Microsoft announces a new Windows 11 taskbar tool that could boost your productivity

Microsoft has introduced a new feature called "Microsoft 365 Companions" during the Microsoft Ignite 2024 event. This feature integrates shortcuts for People, Files, and Calendar into the taskbar for Windows users, aimed at improving productivity and user experience. It allows users to customize their taskbar for quicker access to important contacts and deadlines. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Windows 11 as a productive environment. Earlier in the year, Microsoft also launched customizable Start Menu Companions to further promote personalization and efficiency.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

Remember Bricopacks? They could transform Windows XP into something special

Windows XP was known for its user-friendly interface and performance, leading to a community-driven desire for customization. Notable contributions included BricoPacks, which were comprehensive suites of software and tweaks that enhanced the operating system. These packs provided features such as a sleek dock for applications, revamped window styling and cursors, new wallpapers and taskbar designs, and customizable start menus. Customizing Windows XP required technical skills and experimentation, supported by active forums. Today, customization options remain available for Windows, and Bricopacks can still be downloaded for use with Windows XP virtual machines.