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Winsage

March 26, 2026

Microsoft says Windows 11 is getting a Windows 10-like compact taskbar, not just a movable taskbar

Microsoft is implementing a new strategy to enhance Windows 11 with significant monthly updates. Upcoming changes include the reintroduction of a compact taskbar similar to Windows 10, which will allow users more flexibility in its size. Currently, Windows 11 users have limited options for customizing the taskbar, particularly at lower resolutions, and must rely on third-party tools for modifications. Pavan Davuluri, head of Windows at Microsoft, acknowledged user feedback regarding the desire for a 'short taskbar' option. Windows 10 offered more customization options, including a straightforward toggle for small taskbar buttons, which does not function as expected in Windows 11. Microsoft plans to introduce a toggle that will effectively reduce the taskbar size. Additionally, users will soon be able to move the taskbar, a feature that has been highly requested. The updates will also include enhancements such as the ability to pause Windows updates indefinitely, a more efficient Start menu, reduced memory consumption, a quicker File Explorer, and less clutter from AI features. These updates will be rolled out monthly, with Windows Insiders being the first to experience them.

Winsage

March 25, 2026

Tested: Windows 11 now has a second taskbar, and it works surprisingly well

In 2026, Microsoft released PowerToys version 0.98, which includes the new Command Palette Dock feature. This Dock can be pinned to any edge of the screen and displays information such as CPU and memory usage while providing quick access to frequently used commands. Users can enable the Dock through the PowerToys interface without needing to restart their system. The Dock offers customization options, including repositioning, themes, and backgrounds. It integrates live system statistics, a clock, and allows users to pin commands and applications for a tailored workflow. The Command Palette Dock is designed to complement, not replace, the Windows 11 taskbar. Other enhancements in this update include a new Keyboard Manager, performance upgrades for the Command Palette, and improvements to CursorWrap and ZoomIt.

Winsage

March 25, 2026

The 73 Essential Windows 11 Tricks That’ll Save You Hours Every Week

Windows 11 is designed for efficiency and speed, featuring numerous keyboard shortcuts and macros that enhance productivity. Key shortcuts include: - Basic Shortcuts: - Ctrl + A: Select all items - Ctrl + C or Ctrl + Insert: Copy - Ctrl + V or Shift + Insert: Paste - Ctrl + X: Cut - Ctrl + Z: Undo - Ctrl + Y: Redo - Ctrl + N: Open new File Explorer window - Windows key + F1: Open Bing search for help - Alt + F4: Close current app - Alt + Tab: Switch between apps - Shift + Delete: Permanently delete item - Start Menu and Taskbar Shortcuts: - Windows key or Ctrl + Esc: Open Start menu - Windows key + X: Open secret Start menu - Windows key + T: Cycle through taskbar apps - Windows key + [Number]: Open pinned app - Windows key + Alt + [Number]: Open right-click menu for pinned app - Windows key + D: Show/hide desktop - Screenshots Shortcuts: - PrtScn: Screenshot to clipboard - Windows key + PrtScn: Save screenshot to folder - Windows key + Shift + S: Open Snipping Tool - Emoji Shortcuts: - Windows key + .: Open emoji keyboard - Desktop Shortcuts: - Windows key + M: Minimize all windows - Windows key + Shift + M: Restore minimized windows - Windows key + Up arrow: Maximize window - Windows key + Left arrow: Snap window left - Windows key + Tab: Open Task view - Shortcuts Using the Windows Key: - Windows key + A: Open Action Center - Windows key + I: Open Settings - Windows key + L: Lock computer - Shortcuts Using the F Keys: - F2: Rename item - F3: Search in File Explorer - F5: Refresh active window - Command Prompt Shortcuts: - Ctrl + C or Ctrl + Insert: Copy text - Ctrl + V or Shift + Insert: Paste text - Ctrl + A: Select all text on current line

Winsage

March 24, 2026

Microsoft Announces WSL Upgrades for Windows 11

Microsoft has announced enhancements for the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to improve the experience for developers using Linux tools on Windows. Key areas of focus include: - Faster file performance between Linux and Windows - Improved network compatibility and throughput - A more streamlined first-time setup and onboarding experience - Enhanced enterprise management with stronger policy control, security, and governance Networking improvements are particularly significant, addressing past issues with mirrored networking that caused “No route to host” errors. Additionally, a new dxgkrnl driver patch has been submitted to improve GPU support for WSL2, introducing compute-only GPU capabilities and support for multiple virtual GPUs. Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft VP for Windows and Devices, emphasized ongoing quality improvements for Windows 11, including reducing Copilot integration in built-in applications, enhancing Bluetooth and USB reliability, and improving search functionality and responsiveness. Despite these commitments, concerns remain, such as the mandatory Microsoft Account sign-in requirement.

Winsage

March 22, 2026

Microsoft says it’ll make Windows 11 a calmer OS with fewer upsells or ads, as it tries to win back users

Microsoft has confirmed plans to reduce the presence of "upsells" in Windows 11 to enhance user experience. This announcement was made on March 20, coinciding with a significant update focused on performance and quality-of-life improvements. The update includes a faster File Explorer, a transition of the Start menu to WinUI 3, and an option to pause Windows updates indefinitely. There will also be a reduction in the use of Copilot across applications like Notepad. Microsoft is reconsidering the necessity of a Microsoft account during the Out-Of-Box Experience (OOBE) and aims to decrease built-in promotions within Windows 11. Scott Hanselman, a Microsoft engineering leader, acknowledged user frustrations and stated the goal is to create “a calmer and more chill OS with fewer upsells.” Users have expressed dissatisfaction with aggressive marketing tactics, including ads for Microsoft services during the setup process and full-screen alerts encouraging the switch to Edge. While some ads can be disabled, many users feel that they should not encounter advertisements after purchasing the operating system or devices.

Winsage

March 22, 2026

Microsoft could drop the forced Microsoft account sign-in during Windows 11 setup

Microsoft is advocating for a login experience for Windows 11 that does not require a Microsoft account (MSA), as influential engineers within the company express dissatisfaction with the current mandatory sign-in during the out-of-box experience (OOBE). Despite recent updates emphasizing performance and user experience improvements, the option to use Windows 11 without an MSA remains absent. Workarounds exist, but the official guidance still encourages MSA sign-ins. Senior executives, including Vice President Scott Hanselman, are working towards a more flexible setup. Microsoft has confirmed plans to streamline the OOBE, aiming for a quieter and simpler device setup process, with some changes expected to be introduced in April for Windows Insiders.

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Microsoft will no longer auto-install M365 Copilot app on Windows PCs

Microsoft has temporarily suspended the automatic installation of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows PCs equipped with M365 applications due to user resistance. The rollout, which began in December, was intended to integrate AI functionalities across tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Users in the European Economic Area were excluded by default, and IT administrators had the option to opt out. Existing installations of the app will not be removed, and users can choose to uninstall it if desired. Microsoft plans to provide further updates before any future rollout.

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Microsoft announces major Windows 11 updates designed to fix biggest flaws

Microsoft has announced plans to enhance Windows 11, focusing on user feedback from the past two years. Key improvements will include better system performance, app responsiveness, and user interface adjustments. Users can expect enhancements in tools like File Explorer and the Windows Subsystem for Linux, with a goal of a more responsive and less resource-intensive operating system by year-end. The Taskbar will be repositionable, allowing customization, and the Windows UI framework, WinUI, will be expanded across more system areas. Windows Update will offer users greater control over updates, including the ability to pause them indefinitely. Microsoft aims to improve reliability by strengthening the Windows Insider Program, increasing OS and driver reliability, and enhancing Windows Hello biometric authentication. The focus areas for improvements are Performance, Reliability, and Craft, with specific goals outlined for each category, such as reducing resource usage, enhancing memory efficiency, and improving the search experience.

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Microsoft Lays Out Next Windows Updates: Faster, Lighter and More Flexible

Microsoft announced a series of enhancements for Windows, including less intrusive Windows Update operations, improved Copilot integration, a streamlined start menu and taskbar, reduced notifications, a smaller memory footprint, and enhanced stability. The integration of Copilot will focus on creating useful experiences, while widgets will provide glanceable information with fewer interruptions. A significant performance update will reduce memory usage, allowing users to free up resources for applications. Users will also be able to pause updates for longer periods and restart or shut down devices without forced installations. New users will have the option to skip updates during initial setup, improving the out-of-the-box experience, especially for handheld gaming devices. Additionally, there will be support for controller-based navigation during setup. Microsoft aims for faster, more consistent performance, with improvements in File Explorer, Bluetooth, USB connections, and overall system stability.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

Windows 11 Pro was $199, but now it’s only $10

Microsoft has ceased support for Windows 10, leaving users vulnerable to cybersecurity threats due to the lack of security updates. Users can upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for .97, a significant discount from its usual price of 9. Windows 11 Pro offers advanced security features such as TPM 2.0, UEFI, BitLocker encryption, and Smart App Control. It includes tools for virtual machines and business networks like Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox. The interface has been redesigned with a new Start menu and enhanced snap tools, along with virtual desktops. A built-in AI assistant is included, allowing users to access AI tools without additional fees. The .97 offer is available for a limited time. Prices on StackSocial are subject to change.