hidden features Archives

Winsage

May 11, 2026

Microsoft finally re-adds refreshing File Explorer to the right-click menu

Microsoft's latest Experimental build for Windows 11, numbered 26300.8376, reintroduces the 'Refresh' option to the right-click menu in File Explorer, allowing users to reload the view. Additionally, the 'Print' option has been moved from the "Show more options" submenu to the main context menu, streamlining the printing process. These enhancements were discovered by a user known as PhantomOfEarth.

Winsage

May 11, 2026

Microsoft keeps fixing Windows and Xbox, but the community keeps complaining

Microsoft has rolled out four Windows Insider builds, introduced new hidden features, and revamped the Windows Run feature. Despite these advancements, many Windows 10 users are hesitant to upgrade due to financial constraints. Xbox Mode has received criticism for its performance on dual monitor setups. Approximately 25% of Windows users on Steam are still using Windows 10. Windows 11 will enhance CPU frequency during high-priority tasks, and recent Insider builds have improved touchpad gestures, File Explorer descriptions, and voice-typing interface. Users can now prevent Chrome and Edge from automatically downloading local AI models. Feedback on new features like the Low Latency Profile has been predominantly negative, with users expressing concerns over CPU spikes.

Winsage

May 10, 2026

How I access Windows 11’s newest experimental features before release and what it reveals about Microsoft’s roadmap

Microsoft has streamlined access to experimental features in Windows 11, allowing users to explore hidden features through a dedicated "Feature flags" page without third-party tools. To enable these features, users must open Settings, navigate to Windows Update, select the "Windows Insider Program" page, and set their device to the Experimental experience. They can then access the Feature flags page, choose to enable or disable specific features, apply changes, and restart their computer to activate the selected experimental feature.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Android phone slow? I changed 2 developer settings for an instant speed boost

The Pixel 9 Pro provides smooth performance, but users may experience lag with other phones. Caution is advised when using "optimizer" apps from the Google Play Store, as they may offer little benefit and could introduce malware. Built-in settings on Android phones can enhance performance without third-party apps. To access these features, enable Developer Options by tapping the Build Number seven times in the About Phone section of Settings. Adjustments to improve performance include: 1. Modifying animation settings: - Window animation scale: Controls speed of pop-up windows and menus. - Transition animation scale: Manages animation speed when switching screens. - Animator duration scale: Affects duration of internal UI animations. Setting these to 0.5x or turning them off can improve speed. 2. Reducing background processes: - Limit background processes to "At most 4 processes" for better performance, especially on devices with 4GB RAM or less. These adjustments can lead to a smoother and more responsive user experience.

Winsage

May 4, 2026

Not seeing Xbox mode in Windows 11 yet? Unlock it using this free tool

The optional April 2026 update for Windows 11 (KB5083631) introduces Xbox mode, which enhances gaming performance by disabling unnecessary processes. The rollout prioritizes users in North America, followed by Europe, but many are still waiting for access. Xbox mode can be manually activated using ViVeTool, a free command-line application available on GitHub, provided users have installed update KB5083631. Xbox mode, previously known as the Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE), offers a console-like interface optimized for full-screen display, enhancing readability and navigation with a gaming controller. It allows seamless transitions between productive tasks and gaming sessions, aiming to replicate the console experience on a PC.

Winsage

April 28, 2026

Windows 11 Reveals 4 Hidden Features in the Latest Experimental Build

Windows 11 build 26300.8289 has introduced several updates on the Experimental channel, including four undisclosed changes and enhancements to Windows Update. Key features include: - Early support for repositioning the Taskbar, allowing users to place it at the top, left, or right of the screen. - A redesigned Run dialog, which has been updated for the first time in nearly 30 years, featuring a Fluent Design with rounded corners, semi-transparent elements, improved spacing, and support for light and dark themes. The text field is enlarged, and it displays recent commands as users type. This new design is optional and can be enabled through Settings. - A new login animation, replacing animated dots with a solid spinning icon during sign-in, sign-out, shutdown, and restart. - An update in the Settings under Storage, allowing users to toggle between megabytes and gigabytes when resizing volumes. These features are currently not accessible to regular Windows Insiders, indicating ongoing development for future testing.

Winsage

April 28, 2026

Microsoft is finally updating a Windows 8 relic that hung on all the way to Windows 11

Windows 11 will replace the dotted spinner from Windows 8 with a new loading wheel in Insider build 26300.8289. The new animation features a sleek solid-line design. The change was discovered by a user named PhantomOfEarth using a tool called Vivetool to enable feature ID 59728252. Microsoft has not yet activated this feature for all users.

Winsage

April 13, 2026

Microsoft Revives Windows Insider Program with Simplified Channels and In-Person Meetups

Microsoft is transforming its Windows Insider Program to enhance user engagement in Windows 11 development. The program will feature a simplified Beta and Experimental channel structure, replacing the previous four-tier system. Users will be able to perform in-place upgrades between Insider builds and have manual control over hidden features through 'Feature Flags.' Microsoft is reintroducing in-person Insider meetups in five major cities: New York City on April 21, Hyderabad on May 7, Taipei on May 13, San Francisco on June 4, and London on June 23. Marcus Ash leads the design and research for the Windows + Devices team, overseeing the revamped meetups.

Winsage

March 25, 2026

Windows 11 Has a Settings Problem — God Mode Is Still the Best Fix in 2026

Windows 11 God Mode is a folder that provides a searchable interface for every Control Panel setting, making it a useful tool for users. Despite the introduction of the new Settings app in Windows 11, many settings still redirect users back to the Control Panel, indicating that the transition to a unified interface is incomplete as of March 2026. Users often find themselves navigating through multiple pages in Settings to access certain features that remain in the legacy Control Panel. God Mode simplifies this process by allowing users to quickly find settings without navigating through various menus. To set up God Mode, users can create a new folder on their desktop and rename it to a specific string, which transforms it into a Control Panel icon. This setup works for both Windows 11 Home and Pro without requiring administrative rights.

Winsage

March 17, 2026

5 hidden features to boost your productivity in Windows 11 Pro

Windows 11 Pro includes several features that enhance productivity for users, particularly freelancers, hybrid workers, and small businesses. - BitLocker To Go: This feature encrypts removable storage devices, protecting sensitive data on USB drives and external hard drives, which is crucial for users who transfer client documents and backups. - Remote Desktop: It allows users to access a central machine remotely, providing a familiar workspace and reducing setup time when switching devices. - Windows Update for Business Controls: This feature gives users control over the timing of updates and restarts, minimizing disruptions during work hours. - Dev Drive: A specialized feature for developers that creates a dedicated volume for development activities, improving organization and potentially enhancing performance. - Provisioning Packages: This feature simplifies the setup of multiple devices by allowing users to apply a bundle of settings and configurations at once, saving time during the setup process.