Windows 12 Archives

Winsage

February 11, 2026

Microsoft Announces Windows Baseline Security Mode and User Transparency and Consent

Microsoft has introduced two initiatives to enhance user trust in the Windows operating system: Windows Baseline Security Mode and User Transparency and Consent. These initiatives focus on transparency in app and AI agent behaviors, allowing users to reverse decisions and limiting access to defined capabilities. Windows Baseline Security Mode will enforce runtime integrity safeguards, permitting only properly signed apps, services, and drivers to run, while allowing users and IT administrators to override these safeguards if necessary. User Transparency and Consent will prompt users when apps attempt to access sensitive resources or install additional software, providing clear and actionable options for users to review and modify their choices. The rollout will occur in Windows 11 through a phased approach, with potential implementation in the Windows Insider Program by mid-year, possibly aligning with a future Windows 11 version or Windows 12 release.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Windows 8 had a 30-second ad with more creativity than all of Microsoft’s Copilot-heavy Windows 11 marketing

In 2025, users reported over 20 issues with Windows 11, leading to dissatisfaction reminiscent of past criticisms of Windows Vista and Windows 8. The original Windows 8 promotional campaign effectively highlighted its features through engaging marketing, contrasting with recent Copilot ads that faced backlash for showcasing the AI's limitations. Microsoft has shifted its focus towards AI integration, particularly with Copilot, despite negative feedback from users and developers regarding its effectiveness. Historically, Microsoft responded to Windows 8's challenges by releasing Windows 8.1, which addressed user concerns and improved functionality. A similar update, Windows 11.1, could help restore user confidence and improve the overall experience with Windows 11.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Windows 11 Reaches 1 Billion Users in 1,576 Days — Faster Than Windows 10

Microsoft reported that Windows 11 has reached one billion users worldwide in 1,576 days, surpassing the 1,706 days it took Windows 10 to achieve the same milestone. CEO Satya Nadella highlighted this as a significant milestone for the Windows brand. Windows 11 was launched on October 5, 2021, and has undergone significant evolution, despite facing challenges such as bugs and system crashes. Microsoft plans to maintain Windows 11 as a long-term version, delaying the introduction of a successor. In the latest quarterly results, Windows reported a 5% year-over-year growth, which was below Microsoft's expectations.

Winsage

January 6, 2026

Windows 11 Trails Older OS Versions in ThinkPad X220 Speed Tests

Windows 11 has been tested on a Lenovo ThinkPad X220, revealing it to perform poorly compared to its predecessors, particularly Windows 8.1, which excelled in benchmarks for boot times and application launches. The test involved various Windows versions (XP, Vista, 7, 8.1, 10, and 11) on the same aging hardware, highlighting that Windows 11 consistently finished last in most categories. The ThinkPad X220 does not meet Windows 11’s minimum requirements, lacking essential components like TPM 2.0 and a compatible processor, which may have skewed the results. Critics argue that using outdated hardware for testing is not representative, suggesting that a fair comparison would involve flagship devices from each generation. Windows 11's architecture is designed for modern multicore CPUs and SSDs, which may struggle on older hardware. Additionally, Windows 11 has heavier overheads due to advanced security features, which consume resources that older operating systems do not. User feedback indicates frustration with Windows 11's performance on legacy hardware compared to leaner alternatives like Linux. Despite Microsoft promoting optimizations in Windows 11, these did not manifest in the ThinkPad test, and the findings raise concerns for businesses considering upgrades as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support date in 2025.

Winsage

December 27, 2025

I’ve been dual-booting Windows 11 and Linux in total harmony throughout 2025 — Microsoft is in no danger of a mass exodus (unless it fumbles AI in Windows 12)

In 2025, many users began transitioning to Linux due to dissatisfaction with Windows 11 and the end-of-life status of Windows 10. Users faced challenges with Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements, leading some to seek alternatives. Criticism of Windows 11 included issues with the Start menu, high memory consumption, and a perceived prioritization of AI features over user control. Some users have successfully adopted Linux, finding open-source alternatives to popular applications, though hardware compatibility and troubleshooting remain concerns. Familiar desktop environments like KDE Plasma and Cinnamon in distributions such as Fedora and Linux Mint have made Linux more accessible. While some distributions aim to enhance gaming performance, many users still prefer Windows for certain tasks, particularly those involving Adobe products. Microsoft's dominance in the desktop OS market is expected to continue, with future developments potentially influenced by AI integration. The relationship between Windows and Linux may evolve towards coexistence rather than a complete shift in dominance.

Winsage

December 23, 2025

Has 2025 seen a successful refresh to Windows 11?

Windows 11 has a market share of 53.7%, while Windows 10 has 42.7%. Approximately 700 million devices are running Windows 11. Microsoft has urged users to upgrade from Windows 10, which officially ended support in October 2025, leaving users without updates or security patches. Users on Windows 10 may need to purchase an extended security package for protection until October 2026. Hardware compatibility issues, particularly with the Trusted Platform Module 2.0 requirement, may prevent some users from upgrading. The 25H2 update for Windows 11 introduced various enhancements but also created new issues. Windows 12's release is uncertain, with expectations for AI advancements, but details are speculative.

Winsage

December 4, 2025

Spiceworks Community Digest: Subscription Windows

Microsoft is considering transitioning advanced Windows features from a one-time purchase to a subscription-based model, with discussions suggesting that the conventional "Pro" edition may be replaced by a monthly subscription service, potentially branded as Microsoft 365 Pro. Currently, Windows 11 Business and Windows 365 Business are already offered as subscriptions. The Spiceworks community has expressed concerns about rising costs and the potential impact on small businesses and individual consumers. The prevailing sentiment is that the shift to a subscription model is likely, but its success will depend on perceived value compared to free alternatives.

Winsage

November 30, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 heralds the dawn of Intelligent Computing

Windows 11 Version 25H2 was released on November 30, 2025, marking a shift from traditional operating system upgrades to a model where Windows is treated as a living service that evolves through feature updates. This version integrates artificial intelligence, notably through the Copilot tool, enhancing user interaction by providing intelligent assistance. The update also improves performance, reliability, and security, addressing increasing cyber threats with fortified default settings and better encryption. Design refinements enhance user experience and accessibility, while energy efficiency optimizations contribute to sustainability. The retirement of Windows 10 in October 2025 emphasizes the importance of Windows 11 as the future platform, with no immediate plans for a Windows 12 release.

Winsage

November 15, 2025

I’m finally switching to Windows 11, but not for the reason you think

Approximately 40% of Windows 10 users have upgraded to Windows 11, driven by the end of support for Windows 10 on October 14 and various practical considerations. The author upgraded to Windows 11 after acquiring an OLED monitor, as Windows 11 handles HDR significantly better than Windows 10. The introduction of Auto HDR in Windows 11 enhances the visual appeal of older games, while the HDR calibration app is incompatible with Windows 10. The author also faced persistent issues with their Windows 10 installation, such as file corruption and poor microphone quality, which prompted the switch. The end of critical security updates for Windows 10 further influenced the decision to upgrade, making Windows 11 the necessary choice to ensure better performance and security.

Winsage

November 13, 2025

Forget Microsoft’s unpopular agentic AI OS plans, Windows Aero makes a comeback in new ‘Windows 26’ concept — but with a futuristic twist and a consistent dark theme

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced a shift in the company's vision towards intelligence and AI, moving away from the original software factory concept by co-founder Bill Gates. Microsoft has invested heavily in AI, particularly through a partnership with OpenAI, integrating technologies like ChatGPT into its ecosystem. Gates had previously warned Nadella against a billion-dollar investment in 2019, fearing potential losses. Microsoft plans to end support for its current operating system on October 14, 2025, and is focusing on developing an AI-powered operating system, with indications that the next version of Windows will offer a multi-modal experience. Microsoft has reorganized its Windows team to facilitate this transition. Users have expressed frustration with current Windows iterations, prompting suggestions for improvements from power users and designers. Concepts for a future Windows 26 have been proposed, featuring customizable designs and enhanced AI capabilities, though specific system requirements are not detailed.