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Windows K2

Windows 26H2 Is Nearly Here: 7 Features Worth Knowing About
Winsage
August 28, 2026

Windows 26H2 Is Nearly Here: 7 Features Worth Knowing About

Microsoft has released Windows version 26H2 on the Release Preview Channel, with a public launch expected later this year. Key features include: 1. Taskbar Customisation: Users can reposition the taskbar and adjust its size. 2. Local-only Search: A feature that allows searching only local files without web results. 3. Ask Copilot Integration: An optional AI feature for accessing settings and launching applications from the taskbar. 4. Start Menu Redesign: Customization options for hiding user information and a streamlined layout. 5. Low Latency Profile: Improved performance for quicker app launches and responsiveness. 6. Pause Windows Updates for Longer: Users can pause updates for up to 35 days, with smarter update bundling. 7. Modern Run: A redesigned run window with a larger input field and dark mode option.
Windows 11 is getting faster, but its apps aren't keeping up
Winsage
August 24, 2026

Windows 11 is getting faster, but its apps aren’t keeping up

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 by rolling out new context menus and refreshing the AutoPlay dialog box. Discussions are ongoing about branding the next major update as Windows 12, but improving the quality of applications is crucial for the overall user experience. Microsoft is working on enhancing its suite of applications, with developer Rudy Huyn assembling a team focused on improving Windows applications. Despite previous rebuilds, core issues with applications like Microsoft Teams persist, and there are concerns about whether the team will focus on native applications or continue to rely on sluggish web apps. Additionally, flagship applications like Photos and OneDrive may not be addressed by Huyn's team, potentially impacting user experience if Teams remains slow. Microsoft 365 is currently available at a discount when bundled with NordVPN.
A faster OS and UI fixes won't save Windows 11 if Microsoft's apps remain laggy web wrappers
Winsage
August 24, 2026

A faster OS and UI fixes won’t save Windows 11 if Microsoft’s apps remain laggy web wrappers

Microsoft is testing new context menus and updating the AutoPlay dialog box in Windows 11. The Windows K2 initiative is prompting discussions about a potential Windows 12 update. Concerns remain about the performance of key applications like Microsoft Teams, which has been criticized for slow loading times. The upcoming Windows 11 update will include a refreshed Start menu, Taskbar enhancements, and quality fixes. A study by Signal65 found that the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme outperforms Intel and AMD chips. Rudy Huyn is leading a team to improve Windows applications, but it is uncertain how many apps will benefit from these efforts. Many major applications operate independently from Huyn's team, raising concerns about user experience. Microsoft 365 is currently available at a discount when bundled with NordVPN.
Windows 11’s September update reshapes key parts of the OS, and these 3 customizations instantly make the new release feel faster, cleaner, and more personal to use
Winsage
August 23, 2026

Windows 11’s September update reshapes key parts of the OS, and these 3 customizations instantly make the new release feel faster, cleaner, and more personal to use

In September 2026, Microsoft will release an update for Windows 11 that enhances user control over the interface with new customization options. Users will be able to relocate the Taskbar to the top of the screen, modify the size of the Start menu, and disable web results from Windows Search. These features are part of the Windows K2 initiative and will be rolled out gradually across devices.
I think Microsoft is finally fixing the customization problems that held Windows 11 back
Winsage
August 23, 2026

I think Microsoft is finally fixing the customization problems that held Windows 11 back

Windows 11 is evolving into a more user-centric operating system, with recent updates enhancing customization options like moving and resizing the Taskbar and improving Start menu control. This change is part of Microsoft's Windows K2 initiative, which aims to boost performance and user experience. Initially, Windows 11's design aimed for simplicity but reduced user choices, leading to frustration. The context menu was simplified but became cluttered again, prompting updates that allow users to customize its organization. Microsoft recognizes that users have varied preferences for interacting with the OS, and the flexibility in Taskbar positioning enhances satisfaction. While the updates are positive, there is criticism that Microsoft should not be overly praised for restoring previously removed features. The goal is to maintain a modern interface while enhancing user experience without sacrificing functionality. Recent changes reflect an understanding that the issues with Windows 11 arose from removing options rather than having too many choices, guiding future updates to balance user-friendliness with customization.
Microsoft is slowly breaking Windows Media Player Legacy to force people over to the new app
Winsage
August 20, 2026

Microsoft is slowly breaking Windows Media Player Legacy to force people over to the new app

Windows Media Player Legacy will soon lose its "Lyrics, captions, and subtitles" feature, with users being directed to the newer version of Windows Media Player for access. In Windows 11 Build 29648, users receive an error message when trying to activate this feature in the Legacy app. The new user interface simplifies the feature toggle but results in the error message, indicating Microsoft's intention to phase out the Legacy app. Microsoft must address feature gaps to compete with VLC Player, which offers functionalities that the new Windows player lacks.
Did the Surface Phone FINALLY leak? The Windows Central Podcast breaks down what we know about the mysterio...
Winsage
August 14, 2026

Did the Surface Phone FINALLY leak? The Windows Central Podcast breaks down what we know about the mysterio…

In the latest episode of the Windows Central Podcast, hosts Zac Bowden and Jez Corden discuss several topics related to Microsoft. They explore a 2013 Windows Phone prototype, reflecting on its potential impact had it been released. They examine the new unified Microsoft Copilot experience, noting the removal of certain features and discussing the current state of AI. The hosts also cover the announcement of Xbox backward compatibility for original Xbox and Xbox 360 games on Windows, addressing potential licensing challenges. They provide updates on rumors regarding The Elder Scrolls VI and critique the Halo franchise amid project cancellations. Additionally, they highlight upcoming Xbox console features and improvements in audio for Game DVR captures.
I tested 5 major changes and improvements coming to Windows 11 this year: Microsoft is clearly serious about fixing Windows, and it's doing things right this time
Winsage
August 6, 2026

I tested 5 major changes and improvements coming to Windows 11 this year: Microsoft is clearly serious about fixing Windows, and it’s doing things right this time

Microsoft has made significant improvements to Windows 11 in response to user feedback, focusing on enhancing the user experience. Key changes include a revamped Windows Update process that synchronizes updates for drivers, frameworks, and security, allowing users to restart their systems only once a month and pause updates indefinitely. The presence of ads and AI features has been reduced, with updates to the Widgets board and the removal of Bing and MSN ads from Windows Search. Performance enhancements include a "Low Latency Profile" feature for better CPU optimization and improvements in WinUI interfaces, leading to faster navigation in File Explorer and more consistent search functionality. Microsoft is also testing new customization options for the Taskbar and Start menu, allowing users to reposition and resize the Taskbar and hide specific segments of the Start menu. Additional features are in development, with plans for further updates by the end of 2026 and some expected in 2027.
Microsoft wants Windows 11’s right-click menu to work the way it should, by giving users more control
Winsage
August 2, 2026

Microsoft wants Windows 11’s right-click menu to work the way it should, by giving users more control

Microsoft is redesigning the context menu in Windows 11 to address complaints about its sluggishness and clutter. The new design will feature a more compact layout that enhances loading speed and offers full customization options. Users will be able to prioritize frequently used actions, hide seldom-used entries, and rearrange items in the menu. This initiative is part of the broader Windows K2 project aimed at improving the operating system's performance and user experience. The redesigned context menu is currently functional in internal testing, but no timeline for its public rollout has been announced.
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