design changes Archives

Winsage

May 31, 2026

Windows 11 Insider Build 26300.8553 finally lets you customize the Start menu

Microsoft has unveiled new enhancements for Windows users, including faster load times and improved system responsiveness for better multitasking. User interface tweaks have been made for a more cohesive look and feel, and new accessibility features have been introduced to assist users with disabilities. The company emphasizes the importance of user feedback in shaping these updates and encourages community engagement through the Windows Insider program.

Winsage

May 25, 2026

Microsoft Copilot Returns as a Sidebar in Windows 11

Microsoft is updating the Copilot AI integration within Windows 11, reintroducing it as a sidebar application similar to its original design from 2024. Users can dock Copilot on either side of the screen, which adjusts the user interface to accommodate it. The redesigned Copilot integrates more seamlessly with desktop elements. Microsoft has provided two methods for users to remove the Copilot application: one involves editing the Windows Registry to create a key that instructs Windows to remove Copilot, while the other uses a group policy setting applicable only if Copilot was not user-installed.

Winsage

May 3, 2026

You shouldn’t delay your Windows 11 updates, experts reveal

Experts advise against postponing Windows updates, as Microsoft has introduced features allowing users to control when updates occur. Users can pause updates for up to 35 days indefinitely, but delaying updates can lead to security vulnerabilities. Microsoft releases several types of updates: security updates, feature updates, quality updates, driver updates, optional updates, out-of-band updates, and zero-day updates. Zero-day updates are critical and should be installed immediately to avoid exploitation. Recent reports indicate that critical OS patching for Windows 10 and 11 is lagging by an average of 256 days, increasing the risk of cyber incidents.

Winsage

April 22, 2026

Ookla’s Windows 11 Speedtest mockup looks suspiciously like macOS

Ookla and Microsoft announced a partnership to integrate Speedtest as the network performance testing platform across Bing and Windows, allowing Windows 11 users to check their internet speed from the taskbar. This feature was initially available to Windows Insiders in February 2023. A humorous remark by Rafael Rivera, a Windows Dev MVP, suggested that Ookla leaked a glimpse of the Windows vNext UI, which appeared to include elements from macOS. The incident has sparked discussions about design trends and user interfaces in the tech community.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Here’s why your Android Auto music controls look different this morning

Google has introduced a new Media Playback template for Android Auto, enhancing the user experience for music streaming applications like Spotify and YouTube Music. The update features a wavy progress bar and has repositioned the Play/Pause and track control buttons to the left side of the screen. This redesign aims to improve usability and streamline interaction with music apps. The rollout is gradual, with more users beginning to access the updated interface. The new design will be consistently applied across all music player applications using the Media Playback template. Users are encouraged to share their experiences with the new UI.

Winsage

November 23, 2025

Windows Users Furious at Microsoft’s Plan to Turn It Into an “Agentic OS”

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, emphasizing its integration of artificial intelligence (AI) throughout the platform. The company aims to transform Windows into a “canvas for AI” with AI agents accessible from the taskbar to assist with tasks like background research and file management. However, user reception has been negative, with many expressing concerns about the new features on platforms like Reddit, suggesting alternatives like Linux. Despite the backlash, Microsoft continues to promote significant design changes, including the central placement of the Copilot AI assistant on the taskbar and enhancements to Windows File Explorer. The push for voice interaction aims to allow more natural communication with PCs, but raises privacy concerns regarding third-party access to personal files. Early reviews of the AI features have been mixed, with some users reporting ineffective experiences.

AppWizard

November 3, 2025

Pillars of Eternity’s 10-year anniversary turn-based mode will sidestep the biggest issues I was worried it would have, and you can try it this week

Obsidian Entertainment announced that the open beta for the turn-based mode of Pillars of Eternity will begin on Wednesday, November 5. Director Josh Sawyer discussed the evolution of gameplay mechanics, noting the initial use of real-time with pause (RTWP) in the original game and the challenges posed by introducing a turn-based mode in Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire. The gaming landscape has shifted, with modern players expecting faster-paced action and greater tactical depth, prompting Obsidian to adapt its approach to meet these expectations.

Winsage

October 12, 2025

As Windows 10 hits EOL, Microsoft says it’s designing Windows 11 for AI

Microsoft has introduced a new design blueprint for Windows 11 that focuses on AI integration, as outlined by Windows Design Director Diego Baca. The company aims to create a user-friendly experience, learning from past mistakes with Windows 8. Windows 11 will see gradual design changes that enhance user experience without shocking users with a complete overhaul. Key design principles include "Intentional innovation," "Craft + scalable systems," "Tailored for all," and "Secure, trustworthy, and compliant by design." Microsoft plans to maintain a stable core design while incorporating AI features, such as contextual menus and personalized experiences based on user activities. The Fluent design system will be emphasized, with updates to classic applications like Microsoft Paint and Notepad. Security is a priority, with measures embedded early in development to ensure AI functionalities are safe. Speculation about Windows 12 suggests it may further integrate context-aware features and diverse interaction methods, while retaining the design principles established in Windows 11.

Winsage

September 26, 2025

Microsoft Windows 10 support to end very soon: Private users in certain regions can secure one year of free ESU security updates

Microsoft has updated its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for users in the European Economic Area (EEA), confirmed by Microsoft Germany, allowing access to essential updates until October 13, 2026. EEA users can choose between two options for receiving ESU updates: 1. Free option: Users must sign in to their PC using a Microsoft account (MSA) and remain signed in to receive free security updates for one year, expiring on October 13, 2026. If the MSA is inactive for 60 days, updates will stop but can be reactivated by signing in again. The previous requirement to use the Windows Backup app or redeem Microsoft Rewards points has been removed. 2. One-time payment: Users must initially sign in with a Microsoft account and pay a one-time fee plus taxes to register for the ESU program. After registration, ongoing sign-in is not required. For users outside the EEA, the original ESU options remain, which include free updates via Windows Backup or Microsoft Rewards, or a one-time payment for registration. Business customers have different terms, with ESU available at an annual rate per device and renewals allowed for up to three years. Windows 10 users on virtual machines will receive complimentary ESU access without registration. The ESU program will only address critical and important security vulnerabilities from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026, without introducing new features or non-security updates. Microsoft encourages users to upgrade to Windows 11, while Microsoft 365 applications will receive security updates on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

Pixel users tipped to gain control over its automatic volume adjustment

Google is developing a new settings page called "Hearing Wellness" for Pixel users, which will integrate Android's Sound Exposure and Hearing Health options. This feature will allow devices to automatically adjust volume levels when they exceed safe thresholds, with users having the option to enable or disable this automatic volume reduction. The initiative responds to user feedback regarding dissatisfaction with previous automatic adjustments for regulatory compliance. The new interface includes toggles for Sound Exposure notifications and Hearing Health. Additionally, Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 has been released for enrolled Pixel devices, introducing enhancements like an expanded dark theme and auto-themed icons, as well as new developer APIs.