Microsoft's strategy Archives

Winsage

April 5, 2025

I hope these 3 long-lost Microsoft Windows 8 features stay gone forever

Windows 8 introduced a new interface that replaced the traditional Start Menu with a full-screen tile layout, leading to negative user feedback due to its touchscreen optimization and disruption of productivity for desktop users. The tile interface featured constantly updating tiles that distracted users, while Metro apps had a restrictive design that complicated tasks like image editing. The Charms bar was criticized for unintentionally activating and interrupting workflows. Despite some improvements like Fast Startup, the overall reception was poor, prompting Microsoft to release Windows 8.1, which reintroduced the Start Button. The subsequent launch of Windows 10 received a much more favorable response, indicating a shift in Microsoft's strategy away from the controversial elements of Windows 8.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Microsoft at 50: how adaptability under Nadella is paying off

Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded Microsoft fifty years ago to sell a version of the Basic computer language for the Altair. Microsoft has evolved from its initial focus on PC software to commanding a vast network of global data centers and recently investing in generative AI. The company faced challenges from the rise of the internet and smartphones, which shifted focus away from PCs, leading to stagnation in its stock price. Satya Nadella became CEO in 2014 and shifted Microsoft towards a cloud-first strategy, embracing open-source software and partnering with OpenAI for exclusive access to AI models. Under his leadership, Microsoft has adapted to changes in the tech landscape, although the impact of generative AI remains uncertain. Since Nadella's appointment, Microsoft's stock price has increased tenfold, raising its market value to nearly .8 trillion.

Winsage

March 4, 2025

CCI Dismisses Antitrust Complaint Against Microsoft Over Windows Defender

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) investigated an antitrust complaint against Microsoft regarding its bundling of Microsoft Defender with the Windows operating system. The complaint, made by an anonymous informant, claimed that this practice hindered independent antivirus software developers. Key concerns included access to APIs, integration pathways, and default settings that limited third-party antivirus solutions. Microsoft defended its practices by stating that Defender is part of Windows at no extra cost and that users can install third-party antivirus programs, which can be set as the default. The CCI found no merit in the allegations, concluding there was insufficient evidence of anti-competitive behavior and that users have the freedom to choose their antivirus solutions.

AppWizard

March 1, 2025

Popular messenger closes forever after 20 years of operation

Skype will be shut down in May. Microsoft Teams is being promoted as the alternative platform for calls and chats. Skype was launched in 2003, acquired by Microsoft in 2011, and has undergone various changes, including the discontinuation of Skype for Business. Despite updates, Skype struggled to achieve significant success compared to competitors. Microsoft Teams, introduced in 2017, combines various communication features and is integrated with Microsoft 365 services, targeting both business and educational users.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

Microsoft makes another tweak to Windows 11’s taskbar – but it’s probably not the change you were hoping for

Microsoft has introduced a new icon on the Windows 11 taskbar that provides access to AI-driven Windows Studio Effects, which enhance video call quality with features like background blurring, simulated direct eye contact, improved lighting, and user centering. The icon appears when compatible applications are using the webcam, allowing users to see which application is accessing it, thus enhancing privacy. However, the feature is limited to devices with specific hardware requirements, including 16GB of RAM and a CPU with a neural processing unit (NPU), potentially restricting access for many users. This initiative is part of Microsoft's strategy to promote AI features, but user feedback has been mixed, with some expressing disappointment over the lack of traditional taskbar functionalities and questioning the necessity of these enhancements for professional use.

Winsage

February 5, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Offer Deadline—Millions Of Windows Users Must Now Decide

Microsoft is intensifying its initiative to transition Windows 10 users to Windows 11, with around 400 million users still on Windows 10. There has been a rise in Windows 11 upgrades, influenced by speculation about a deadline for free upgrades, although Microsoft has not formally announced a cutoff. The end-of-life for Windows 10 is set for October, which adds pressure for users to upgrade. Many users may be unable to upgrade due to hardware limitations, and Microsoft offers a 12-month extended support plan for those unable to transition. Workarounds for hardware restrictions are declining, as Microsoft has removed guidance on modifying the Windows Registry and blocked the Flyby11 tool, which was designed to assist users with unsupported hardware. As the October deadline approaches, users are advised to upgrade before then to avoid support fees and potential interruptions in free upgrades. Users without compatible hardware may need to consider purchasing a new Windows 11 PC by 2025 to ensure continued support.

Winsage

December 7, 2024

Microsoft Edge is getting really faster on Windows 11. Menus, elements load instantly

Microsoft Edge has introduced WebUI 2.0, a new framework that improves the browser's speed and responsiveness by addressing performance issues related to JavaScript and code sharing. The migration to WebUI 2.0 is ongoing, with some settings already transitioned. The Browser Essentials feature now loads 42% faster, and the Favorites bar has a 40% increase in loading speed. The msInlineComposeWebUI feature has significantly reduced loading time, allowing the Copilot compose box to open almost instantly. The msPdfWebui2 feature also shows improved launch speed. Microsoft is gradually integrating these components into Edge, with many still not in the stable version. The company is seeking user feedback for future updates and is experimenting with methods to streamline the user experience by decluttering the interface.

Winsage

December 7, 2024

The Surface Studio is dead? — Microsoft ends production on $4,500 Surface Studio 2+ as stock dwindles

Microsoft has officially concluded production of the Surface Studio 2+, its all-in-one desktop PC for creative professionals and commercial users, with no plans to replenish stock. The Surface Studio 2+ had a starting price of ,500 and was known for its touchscreen display and innovative hinge design. The discontinuation aligns with Microsoft's strategy to streamline its Surface offerings in 2023, which also included the Surface Duo 3 and Surface Earbuds 2. There are no immediate plans for a successor, as rumors suggest a potential Surface Studio 3 was shelved. The Surface Studio series targeted a specialized audience and faced challenges due to its high price and last-generation specifications. Microsoft's current focus is shifting towards more mainstream products, with anticipated updates for the Surface Pro, Laptop, Laptop Go, and Laptop Studio expected in 2025.

Winsage

December 2, 2024

Windows 11 market share falls despite Microsoft ad blitz

Windows 11's market share has decreased from 35.6 percent in October to 34.9 percent in November, while Windows 10's market share has increased to 61.8 percent. In the U.S., Windows 11's market share has declined by over 3 percent, indicating a shift in consumer sentiment towards Windows 10. Microsoft's strategy of promoting Windows 11 through full-screen advertisements on Windows 10 devices has not led to increased adoption rates. Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements have left many Windows 10 devices ineligible for an upgrade, discouraging users from transitioning to the new operating system. Reports indicate that some users have reverted to previous versions of Windows due to dissatisfaction with Windows 11.

Winsage

December 1, 2024

Windows 11 Update: Microsoft Now Allows Installation on Older PCs

Microsoft is now allowing Windows 11 to be installed on a broader range of computers, including older models that previously didn’t meet the system’s hardware requirements. Initially, Windows 11 had strict hardware requirements, including the need for a modern processor and a motherboard with TPM 2.0, which left many users with older computers unable to upgrade. As a result, Windows 11's market share has remained just above 20%, while Windows 10 continues to dominate with nearly 70%. To boost adoption, Microsoft is expanding the list of compatible processors to include older models, addressing security concerns as support for Windows 10 will end in 2025. This change reflects a shift in Microsoft's strategy to balance security, innovation, and user accessibility, making it easier for users with older PCs to upgrade to Windows 11.

Microsoft’s strategy