secondary displays Archives

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.

AppWizard

May 10, 2026

Console-like Xbox Mode boosts game performance on Windows 11 PCs

Microsoft has rolled out a new Xbox Mode for Windows 11 PCs, designed to provide a console-like gaming interface that enhances the gaming experience across various devices. This mode, initially introduced on the ROG Xbox Ally X and later expanded to Windows Insider users, allows for controller navigation and minimizes background processes for improved performance. Xbox Mode aggregates game libraries from multiple storefronts, enabling seamless switching between it and the standard Windows 11 desktop. Preliminary tests indicate that Xbox Mode offers performance improvements over standard Windows 11, particularly for Nvidia graphics cards. A YouTuber's analysis showed over 15 percent better performance in 1% low framerates and a 4.3 percent increase in average framerates at 1080p using an Nvidia card. At 1440p, improvements were 25 percent higher 1% lows and a 6.7 percent increase in average framerates. For AMD cards, the gains were less significant, with only a 2.5 percent increase in 1% lows at 1080p and a 1.4 percent improvement at 1440p. However, Xbox Mode has limitations, including issues with multi-monitor setups where secondary displays are blanked out, preventing access to other applications while gaming.

Winsage

October 6, 2025

Microsoft begins rolling out highly anticipated Taskbar feature for Windows 11 power users

Microsoft's latest update for Windows 11, identified as KB5065789, allows users to access the notification center directly from the Taskbar on any monitor, including secondary displays. Previously, this functionality was limited to the primary monitor, requiring users to return to it to check notifications. The update addresses a long-standing request from users, enhancing the experience for those with multi-monitor setups. However, the Taskbar remains fixed at the bottom of the screen, and users still cannot reposition it, which some consider a drawback.

Winsage

October 4, 2025

Windows 11’s Notification Center opens on secondary display, gets a clock and more

Windows 11's September 2025 Update (KB5065789) enhances the taskbar, particularly for users with multiple displays. The Notification Center can now open on secondary displays, improving workflow by allowing access to notifications, calendar, and Do Not Disturb settings directly from either screen. Previously, the Notification Center only launched on the primary display when using Extend mode, which was inconvenient for productivity. The update also allows users to right-click the system tray clock to access Date and Time settings and Notification preferences. Additionally, users can enable a full clock display in the Notification Center and collapse the Calendar for a more compact view. This update is available for both Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 versions.

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

July 29, 2025

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

Windows 11 is introducing a feature in its latest preview build (26200.5722) that allows users to access the notification center and calendar flyout directly from the taskbar on secondary displays. This feature, previously available in Windows 10, was missing in the initial rollout of Windows 11. The update reflects Microsoft's response to user feedback regarding multi-monitor usage. The feature is currently in testing for Windows Insiders and may be included in the upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update later this year.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Windows 11 KB5048667 & KB5048685 cumulative updates released

Microsoft has released two cumulative updates for Windows 11: KB5048667 for version 24H2 and KB5048685 for version 23H2. These updates are mandatory and include December 2024 Patch Tuesday security enhancements. The build number for Windows 11 24H2 will change to 26100.2605, and for 23H2 to 226x1.4602. Key changes include the removal of the bell icon from the taskbar, a shortened date and time display, and support for jump lists in the Start menu. New features include: - A section for touchscreen edge gestures in Settings. - The IME toolbar will hide in full-screen mode for Chinese or Japanese typing. - Users can share content to an Android device via File Explorer if Phone Link is configured. - New directional options for the Wave effect in Dynamic Lighting Settings. - Administrative privileges for jump list items when holding Shift and CTRL. - Enhancements to speech-to-text and text-to-speech functionalities. - Fixes for excessive spacing in File Explorer, search box truncation, app window clustering, Mica rendering issues, lag on secondary displays, pointer location circles, clipboard history accuracy, and new functions in Narrator scan mode. The updates are being rolled out gradually.

Winsage

December 6, 2024

Previewing More Copilot+ Experiences with Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2510 (KB5048780) has been released to the Dev Channel, introducing new features for AMD and Intel®-powered Copilot+ PCs, including the Recall feature and an expansion of Click to Do (Preview). To join the Dev Channel, users must register for the Windows Insider Program, link their Microsoft account, select the Dev Channel, and check for updates. The Recall feature allows users to find apps, websites, images, or documents by describing their content and includes timeline control for revisiting past activities. The Cocreator feature in Microsoft Paint enables AI-assisted artwork generation from text prompts. The Photos app has been updated with Image Creator and Restyle Image features for generating new images and applying artistic styles to existing photos, respectively. Click to Do has been enhanced with new activation methods and intelligent text actions, allowing users to summarize or rewrite text. Additional changes include a modernized Windows Hello experience, improvements to the system tray, and various fixes for audio and application stability. Known issues include problems with Recall and Click to Do functionalities, which will be addressed in future updates. The Microsoft Store now supports direct updates for Win32 apps.

Winsage

November 21, 2024

Windows 11 KB5046740 update released with 14 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the November 2024 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, designated as KB5046740, which includes 14 enhancements and fixes, particularly for File Explorer, Clipboard history, and secondary displays. This update is part of Microsoft's optional non-security preview updates, allowing Windows administrators to test upcoming features and fixes. Notable features include improved content sharing with Android devices via File Explorer, enhancements to text-to-speech and speech-to-text functionalities, and resolutions for technical issues like lag on secondary displays and empty Clipboard history. The update elevates Windows 11 24H2 systems to build 26100.2454 and introduces changes such as a shortened date and time in the system tray, rebranding of Tailored Experiences to Personalized offers, the ability to open jump list items as an admin, and fixes for pointer location circles on some displays. Microsoft will not release a non-security preview update in December 2024 due to limited operations during the holidays but will provide a monthly security release. Known issues affecting gamers on Windows Arm devices and certain USB DAC sound systems have been acknowledged. The Windows 11 24H2 update began rolling out in October, serving as a comprehensive upgrade for devices on Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2.