in-box applications Archives

Winsage

August 24, 2026

Windows 11 is getting faster, but its apps aren’t keeping up

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 by rolling out new context menus and refreshing the AutoPlay dialog box. Discussions are ongoing about branding the next major update as Windows 12, but improving the quality of applications is crucial for the overall user experience. Microsoft is working on enhancing its suite of applications, with developer Rudy Huyn assembling a team focused on improving Windows applications. Despite previous rebuilds, core issues with applications like Microsoft Teams persist, and there are concerns about whether the team will focus on native applications or continue to rely on sluggish web apps. Additionally, flagship applications like Photos and OneDrive may not be addressed by Huyn's team, potentially impacting user experience if Teams remains slow. Microsoft 365 is currently available at a discount when bundled with NordVPN.

Winsage

August 24, 2026

A faster OS and UI fixes won’t save Windows 11 if Microsoft’s apps remain laggy web wrappers

Microsoft is testing new context menus and updating the AutoPlay dialog box in Windows 11. The Windows K2 initiative is prompting discussions about a potential Windows 12 update. Concerns remain about the performance of key applications like Microsoft Teams, which has been criticized for slow loading times. The upcoming Windows 11 update will include a refreshed Start menu, Taskbar enhancements, and quality fixes. A study by Signal65 found that the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme outperforms Intel and AMD chips. Rudy Huyn is leading a team to improve Windows applications, but it is uncertain how many apps will benefit from these efforts. Many major applications operate independently from Huyn's team, raising concerns about user experience. Microsoft 365 is currently available at a discount when bundled with NordVPN.

Winsage

July 28, 2026

Windows Insiders Get More Windows 11 In-Box App Updates

Microsoft has begun documenting updates to its in-box applications for Windows 11 through the Windows Insider Program. As of the end of July, updates have been rolled out for the following applications: - Calculator: Three fixes addressing issues in Scientific mode, an access key conflict, and improved screen reader support. - Clock: Two fixes targeting a bug in Focus Sessions and enhancing the accuracy of sunrise and sunset times for users at high latitudes. - Media Player: Three fixes for problems with local album art, disabled libraries, and track list rendering. - Notepad: Several fixes improving functionality with Markdown files, copying and pasting of indented and nested lists, concurrent print jobs, launch performance, and rendering of underscore characters. These updates are being distributed through various channels and are expected to be available during next month’s Patch Tuesday.