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Microsoft starts to remove AI from some of its Windows 11 apps
Winsage
April 28, 2026

Microsoft starts to remove AI from some of its Windows 11 apps

Microsoft is recalibrating its Copilot AI assistant, which enhances productivity across its applications. In Microsoft Word, Copilot assists with drafting, restructuring, and tone adjustment. Excel users receive help with formulas and data analysis, while PowerPoint users get support for presentations. Notepad has rebranded its Copilot features as "Writing Tools," allowing users to generate text, rewrite content, and adjust tone, but the Snipping Tool has removed all AI functionalities. Microsoft plans to introduce AI agents to the Windows taskbar for answering questions, automating tasks, and interacting with files, although this feature is still in testing.
Ookla’s Windows 11 Speedtest mockup looks suspiciously like macOS
Winsage
April 22, 2026

Ookla’s Windows 11 Speedtest mockup looks suspiciously like macOS

Ookla and Microsoft announced a partnership to integrate Speedtest as the network performance testing platform across Bing and Windows, allowing Windows 11 users to check their internet speed from the taskbar. This feature was initially available to Windows Insiders in February 2023. A humorous remark by Rafael Rivera, a Windows Dev MVP, suggested that Ookla leaked a glimpse of the Windows vNext UI, which appeared to include elements from macOS. The incident has sparked discussions about design trends and user interfaces in the tech community.
Microsoft confirms a wider roll out of Windows 11's new colourful battery icons on the taskbar
Winsage
February 28, 2026

Microsoft confirms a wider roll out of Windows 11’s new colourful battery icons on the taskbar

Windows 11 users will see colorful battery icons on the taskbar as Microsoft rolls out updates, including the new Start menu, with the update KB5077241. The vibrant battery icons have been in development for nearly two years, with initial testing starting in late 2024. The rollout began last year but was limited to select PCs. An optional update in February 2026 will further expand the availability of these icons and the updated Start menu. The new battery icon replaces the plain white bar with a green icon when charging, featuring a charging bolt during the process. The icon changes color based on battery levels: it turns orange at 30% and red below 6%. Users can display the battery percentage on the taskbar by enabling it in Settings > System > Power & Battery. Recent improvements to the Windows taskbar include the return of drag-and-drop functionality, the ability to resize the taskbar, and potential options to reposition it. Microsoft is also updating Secure Boot certificates, set to expire in June 2026, and distributing new certificates issued in 2023 to more PCs. A tutorial is available for users to verify the application of these new Secure Boot certificates.
10 Hacks Every Windows Power User Should Know
Winsage
December 24, 2025

10 Hacks Every Windows Power User Should Know

Windows is a widely used computing platform that integrates applications, synchronizes Microsoft Office documents, and provides a gaming environment. It has introduced the Command Palette, a keyboard launcher for accessing various functions, which can be enabled through PowerToys and accessed using the shortcut Windows + Alt + Space. Users can replace the default File Explorer with the Files app, which offers a better interface and features like tabs and dual-pane mode. The ExplorerPatcher app allows users to revert to the Windows 10 Taskbar, while Start 11 enables customization of the Start menu. Seelen UI provides a customizable menu bar and Dock for users transitioning from Mac. PowerToys includes Light Switch for automating dark mode transitions. Snap Layouts helps organize multiple windows, accessible via the Maximize button or Windows + Z shortcut. Winget is a package manager for installing applications with a single command, and UniGetUI offers a graphical interface for app management. Clipboard History can be accessed with Windows + V, and the Ditto app enhances clipboard functionality. Focus Sessions in the Clock app serve as a Pomodoro timer, and the Keyboard Manager in PowerToys allows users to create custom shortcuts and remap keys.
This new Copilot trick will save you tons of time in Windows 11
Winsage
October 15, 2025

This new Copilot trick will save you tons of time in Windows 11

A new feature in Microsoft's Copilot app for Windows is being rolled out to Windows Insiders, allowing users to ask questions about specific settings and receive direct links to those settings. Users can inquire about tasks like making the screen easier to read or reducing distractions, and Copilot will provide a link to the relevant Windows setting screen. This feature is currently available to Windows Insiders running the latest build, and users can access it by clicking the Copilot icon on the taskbar and typing their questions. If they don't have access to the new skill, they can still use Copilot Voice to receive guidance on specific issues. The feature is expected to take a few months before it becomes available in the regular version of Windows 11.
Windows Users Get Exclusive Taskbar Apps That Integrate with Microsoft 365
Winsage
August 13, 2025

Windows Users Get Exclusive Taskbar Apps That Integrate with Microsoft 365

Microsoft is introducing three lightweight companion applications—People, File Search, and Calendar—designed to enhance the user experience for Microsoft 365 customers by transforming the Windows taskbar into a command center. These apps will be automatically launched upon startup and provide immediate access to Microsoft 365 functionalities. The People app allows users to initiate Teams calls and manage contacts, the File Search app simplifies file location across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, and the Calendar app offers visibility into upcoming commitments and integrates with other tools. The rollout is scheduled for this month through standard update channels. This initiative reflects Microsoft's strategy to deepen integration of its services within the Windows experience, aiming to enhance user productivity and strengthen its competitive position. However, it has faced scrutiny from regulators, particularly the European Commission, regarding its bundling strategies, leading to commitments to unbundle Teams from its offerings and enhance interoperability with competing platforms.
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