Windows 11

Winsage
May 4, 2026
Windows holds a 93.47% share of users on Steam, but only 67.74% have upgraded to Windows 11 nearly five years after its launch, with 25.53% still using Windows 10. The adoption of Windows 11 has been hindered by the TPM 2.0 requirement and high hardware costs. Linux's share of Steam users decreased from 5% to 4.52%. Governments, including France, are considering alternatives to Windows.
Winsage
May 4, 2026
Microsoft has reduced the prominence of advertisements in the widgets panel of Windows 11 to enhance user experience. In a recent preview build, default settings were introduced to make the widgets board less intrusive, aiming to minimize distractions and unexpected alerts. These changes are part of a broader update that includes improvements in File Explorer speed and overall system performance, with a significant update to the taskbar also planned.
Winsage
May 4, 2026
NTLite has released version 2026.04.10936, which allows users to remove AI features like Copilot and Windows Recall from Windows 11 25H2 installation images. The update includes faster, multi-threaded extraction capabilities that reduce processing time for Windows images and results in a smaller installation size. NTLite modifies the installation image directly, enabling a streamlined installation without the need for post-installation uninstallation of these features. The tool is available for free download, with a paid license option for advanced features. The demand for such tools has increased due to Microsoft's integration of AI features in Windows 11.
Winsage
May 4, 2026
Windows 11 is undergoing enhancements under the initiative "Windows K2" in response to user criticism. The latest Preview Build 26300.8346 features a revamped widgets panel, introducing a new subsection titled “Widgets is quiet by default” to minimize distractions. Key changes include disabling open-on-hover for the widgets panel, turning off taskbar badging, limiting the widgets experience to the first launch, and minimizing taskbar alerts. These adjustments aim to create a more coherent presentation of information and address critiques of Windows 11’s user interface. Microsoft is facing competition from macOS and Linux, and concerns over reliability and performance have affected Windows 11’s reputation.
Winsage
May 4, 2026
The optional April 2026 update for Windows 11 (KB5083631) introduces Xbox mode, which enhances gaming performance by disabling unnecessary processes. The rollout prioritizes users in North America, followed by Europe, but many are still waiting for access. Xbox mode can be manually activated using ViVeTool, a free command-line application available on GitHub, provided users have installed update KB5083631. Xbox mode, previously known as the Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE), offers a console-like interface optimized for full-screen display, enhancing readability and navigation with a gaming controller. It allows seamless transitions between productive tasks and gaming sessions, aiming to replicate the console experience on a PC.
Winsage
May 4, 2026
Windows is the leading operating system for personal computers. Many users are unaware of keyboard shortcuts that can improve productivity. Essential keyboard shortcuts for Windows laptops include: - Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Opens Task Manager. - Win + . (Period): Accesses the emoji picker. - Win + V: Displays Clipboard History. - Win + Shift + S / Win + PrtScn: Snipping Tool for screen captures / captures the entire screen. - Win + D: Minimizes all open windows. - Alt + Enter: Displays properties of a selected file or folder. - Win + Arrow Keys: Snaps the active window to sides or corners of the screen. - Fn + F11: Enables fullscreen mode. - Win + G: Launches the Xbox Game Bar. - Alt + 0150/0151 (Number Pad): Types an en dash or em dash. - Win + P: Projects, duplicates, or extends display to additional monitors. - Win + R: Activates the Run tool. - Ctrl + Win + Shift + B: Restarts the GPU driver. - Win + K: Displays connected devices. - Win + Home: Minimizes all windows except the active one. - Shift + Fn + F10: Opens a context menu. - Win + L: Locks the computer. - Ctrl + Shift + T (Browser): Reopens recently closed browser tabs. - Ctrl + Shift + N: Creates a new folder. - Win + PauseBreak: Opens the system properties window.
Winsage
May 4, 2026
67.74% of Steam users have transitioned to Windows 11 as of April 2026, with a month-over-month increase of 0.89 points. Windows 10 holds 25.63% of the market share, creating a gap of over 40 percentage points between the two operating systems. Windows 11's adoption on Steam has grown from 41.95% in December 2023 to 70.83% in December 2025. A notable drop in Windows 11 usage occurred in February 2026, but the April statistics indicate a recovery. The shift to Windows 11 is influencing developer decisions regarding DirectX 12 and optimizations for the operating system.
Tech Optimizer
May 4, 2026
Neil J. Rubenking's article argues against relying solely on Microsoft Defender for antivirus protection, claiming it is inadequate for users managing multiple devices. However, the author contends that Windows Defender provides essential protection with minimal fuss and operates effectively in the background. The article suggests that third-party antivirus solutions are necessary for cross-device management, but the author believes that many devices are inherently secure and that users prefer a straightforward approach to security. The article also states that Defender's phishing protection is limited to Microsoft Edge, while the author points out that most modern browsers have similar protections. Additionally, the critique of Defender for lacking extra features found in third-party applications is countered by the author, who argues that many of those features are unnecessary or redundant. The article mentions the rise of AI-driven scams and suggests that third-party antivirus companies have adapted with specialized tools, but the author believes existing email provider filters are often sufficient. Lastly, while the article critiques Defender's user interface for being less visually appealing, the author emphasizes the importance of functionality over aesthetics. Overall, the author advocates for a streamlined approach to cybersecurity that leverages built-in protections and sound practices.
Winsage
May 4, 2026
Microsoft has announced the retirement of the sidebar app list in Microsoft Edge, affecting users with Microsoft accounts. New apps will no longer be added to the sidebar, and existing pinned applications will be phased out in an upcoming update. The popular Copilot feature will remain unaffected. Many users have expressed their intent to abandon Edge if the sidebar is removed. Microsoft plans to focus on refining existing functionalities across its platforms, including Windows 11 and Microsoft Edge, in 2026.
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