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Microsoft should steal concepts from this Windows redesign project: Envisioning an ad‑free Windows 11 without AI clutter
Winsage
April 30, 2026

Microsoft should steal concepts from this Windows redesign project: Envisioning an ad‑free Windows 11 without AI clutter

Windows 11 has faced criticism from users regarding its user experience and strict hardware requirements. Many users feel the OS is overloaded with features, including unwanted AI elements and pre-installed applications. In response, a customization community has emerged, with developers like Raditya Aryaputra proposing alternative designs, such as a "Refined" version of Windows 11 that focuses on a streamlined experience. Aryaputra's concept includes a compact Start menu without ads, a revamped Windows Search, and a simplified Widget panel. Microsoft is reportedly planning to reintroduce the movable and resizable project feature in its Windows K2 initiative, set for 2026. User options are limited as mainstream support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025, although an Extended Security Updates program is available temporarily. Microsoft has also redesigned the Start menu based on user feedback and is actively seeking input through Windows Insider meetups. Additionally, Microsoft has streamlined its AI strategy within Windows 11, removing Copilot from certain applications. A status tracker is available for users to follow changes related to the Windows K2 initiative.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
April 30, 2026

Microsoft should steal concepts from this Windows redesign project: Envisioning an ad‑free Windows 11 without AI clutter

Windows 11 has faced criticism from users regarding its hardware requirements and perceived overload of features. A customization community has emerged, with developers like Raditya Aryaputra proposing a "Refined" version of Windows 11 that focuses on essential features and a cleaner interface. This concept includes a compact Start menu without ads or forced recommendations and a more intuitive Windows Search. Microsoft is planning enhancements for Windows 11, internally referred to as Windows K2, set for a 2026 release, which may incorporate user feedback and ideas from Aryaputra's project. Microsoft has also redesigned the Start menu but received feedback that it is too large and lacks customization. The company is reintroducing Windows Insider meetups for user feedback and reassessing its AI strategy within Windows 11. Mainstream support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, pushing users towards Windows 11.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
August 20, 2025

Shock! Microsoft is bringing Copilot to the Windows 11 Start menu

Microsoft is integrating Copilot into the Start menu of Windows 11, as evidenced by images shared by a Twitter user showing recommendations for Copilot prompts in the latest Insider builds. These prompts include tasks like researching topics and drafting documents. While currently only visible in Insider Builds, the likelihood of this feature becoming a permanent addition is high, as Microsoft aims for widespread adoption of Copilot and potentially converting users into paying subscribers for Copilot Pro. There is uncertainty about user options to disable Copilot, which may not be prioritized by Microsoft.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
July 24, 2025

Microsoft trials redesigned Windows 11 Widgets Board with new Copilot Discover feed — AI curated stories right on your desktop

Microsoft is piloting a new widgets panel for Windows 11 called Copilot Discover, which replaces the traditional MSN feed with a personalized AI-curated experience. The updated design enhances speed, reduces lag, and presents stories in a less cluttered format with improved readability. A new Notifications button at the top of the feed provides essential updates, and users can customize these notifications. Microsoft is testing a feature that allows users to read stories directly within the widgets panel instead of being redirected to a browser. The layout separates widgets from the main feed, with a dedicated tab for widgets and a fixed weather widget on the main page. The widgets panel can no longer be viewed in full-screen mode and appears as a narrow slide-out feature. The Copilot Discover feed is currently in testing with a select group of users, with a broader rollout expected if feedback is positive.
Windows parental controls are blocking Chrome
Winsage
June 20, 2025

Windows parental controls are blocking Chrome

Microsoft's Family Safety feature has been restricting users from launching Chrome on Windows since early June, causing issues specifically for Chrome users. Reports of the problem began on June 3, with users experiencing crashes when attempting to open the browser. A Google spokesperson confirmed that Chrome cannot run when Microsoft Family Safety is enabled for some users. Microsoft has not yet implemented a fix after 17 days, and users are advised to either disable the "Filter Inappropriate Websites" setting or rename the chrome.exe file as potential workarounds. Engadget has reached out to Microsoft for further comments but has not received a response.
3 options to consider if your Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded
Winsage
February 11, 2025

3 options to consider if your Windows 10 PC can’t be upgraded

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 Version 22H2 will be the last version, ending new updates and security patches in October. Users can continue to use their systems, but they will be at risk for security vulnerabilities without updates. Options for users include: 1. Paying for extended support, which offers continued security updates for a limited time after Windows 10's end of life. 2. Switching to Linux or ChromeOS Flex, both of which are free alternatives that can keep older PCs operational without hardware upgrades. 3. Purchasing a new PC, which may provide the latest technology but comes at a high cost. Without security updates, systems may become targets for cyber threats, risking data and privacy.
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