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Microsoft says Windows 11 is getting a Windows 10-like compact taskbar, not just a movable taskbar
Winsage
March 26, 2026

Microsoft says Windows 11 is getting a Windows 10-like compact taskbar, not just a movable taskbar

Microsoft is implementing a new strategy to enhance Windows 11 with significant monthly updates. Upcoming changes include the reintroduction of a compact taskbar similar to Windows 10, which will allow users more flexibility in its size. Currently, Windows 11 users have limited options for customizing the taskbar, particularly at lower resolutions, and must rely on third-party tools for modifications. Pavan Davuluri, head of Windows at Microsoft, acknowledged user feedback regarding the desire for a 'short taskbar' option. Windows 10 offered more customization options, including a straightforward toggle for small taskbar buttons, which does not function as expected in Windows 11. Microsoft plans to introduce a toggle that will effectively reduce the taskbar size. Additionally, users will soon be able to move the taskbar, a feature that has been highly requested. The updates will also include enhancements such as the ability to pause Windows updates indefinitely, a more efficient Start menu, reduced memory consumption, a quicker File Explorer, and less clutter from AI features. These updates will be rolled out monthly, with Windows Insiders being the first to experience them.
Microsoft woll allow to pause Windows updates
Winsage
March 25, 2026

Microsoft woll allow to pause Windows updates

Microsoft is changing its update management policy for the Windows operating system to give users more control over when and how updates are installed. This shift comes after years of user dissatisfaction with the automatic update model implemented in 2015, which often led to unexpected system restarts and disruptions. The new policy allows users to pause updates indefinitely and choose when to install them, improving predictability and convenience. Additionally, Microsoft plans to enhance transparency by providing detailed notifications about updates before installation. While users generally welcome these changes, experts warn that delaying updates could increase vulnerability to cyber threats. Microsoft is also refining Windows 11 to improve speed and user interface, including updates to the integration of Copilot and restoring taskbar customization options.
PowerToys adds these 8 features that Windows should have had for years
Winsage
March 23, 2026

PowerToys adds these 8 features that Windows should have had for years

PowerToys is a curated set of utilities created by Microsoft to enhance functionality for power users, evolving from its origins in Windows 95. Users can install PowerToys easily from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. Key features include: - Text Extractor: Captures text from images for easy copying. - Color Picker: Identifies and captures hex codes of colors by pressing Windows + Shift + C. - Command Palette: Allows quick searching of files and launching applications with Windows + Alt + Space. - Awake: Keeps the computer active during long tasks, accessible from the PowerToys menu. - Shortcut Guide: Displays Windows key shortcuts by pressing Windows + Shift + /. - Pixel Ruler: Measures dimensions on the screen by pressing Windows + Ctrl + Shift + M. - File Manager Enhanced Preview: Expands file preview capabilities in Windows Explorer. - PowerRename: Facilitates batch renaming of files with a preview option. These features aim to improve the Windows user experience and may influence future updates to the operating system.
Windows users are angry, and Microsoft is finally doing something about it
Winsage
March 21, 2026

Windows users are angry, and Microsoft is finally doing something about it

Microsoft is addressing user dissatisfaction with Windows 11 by implementing several changes. These include enhanced taskbar customization, allowing users to reposition the taskbar; a more selective integration of AI features, reducing unnecessary AI entry points in applications; greater control over updates, enabling users to skip or pause updates; performance improvements aimed at reducing sluggishness in File Explorer and enhancing memory efficiency; and increased reliability by focusing on reducing crashes and improving app stability. Additionally, Microsoft plans to enhance various functionalities, including Bluetooth and USB connectivity, printer support, and search functionality, while also making widgets less intrusive.
Microsoft announces major Windows 11 updates designed to fix biggest flaws
Winsage
March 21, 2026

Microsoft announces major Windows 11 updates designed to fix biggest flaws

Microsoft has announced plans to enhance Windows 11, focusing on user feedback from the past two years. Key improvements will include better system performance, app responsiveness, and user interface adjustments. Users can expect enhancements in tools like File Explorer and the Windows Subsystem for Linux, with a goal of a more responsive and less resource-intensive operating system by year-end. The Taskbar will be repositionable, allowing customization, and the Windows UI framework, WinUI, will be expanded across more system areas. Windows Update will offer users greater control over updates, including the ability to pause them indefinitely. Microsoft aims to improve reliability by strengthening the Windows Insider Program, increasing OS and driver reliability, and enhancing Windows Hello biometric authentication. The focus areas for improvements are Performance, Reliability, and Craft, with specific goals outlined for each category, such as reducing resource usage, enhancing memory efficiency, and improving the search experience.
Microsoft Lays Out Next Windows Updates: Faster, Lighter and More Flexible
Winsage
March 21, 2026

Microsoft Lays Out Next Windows Updates: Faster, Lighter and More Flexible

Microsoft announced a series of enhancements for Windows, including less intrusive Windows Update operations, improved Copilot integration, a streamlined start menu and taskbar, reduced notifications, a smaller memory footprint, and enhanced stability. The integration of Copilot will focus on creating useful experiences, while widgets will provide glanceable information with fewer interruptions. A significant performance update will reduce memory usage, allowing users to free up resources for applications. Users will also be able to pause updates for longer periods and restart or shut down devices without forced installations. New users will have the option to skip updates during initial setup, improving the out-of-the-box experience, especially for handheld gaming devices. Additionally, there will be support for controller-based navigation during setup. Microsoft aims for faster, more consistent performance, with improvements in File Explorer, Bluetooth, USB connections, and overall system stability.
Microsoft is ending the Windows Update nightmare — and letting you pause them indefinitely
Winsage
March 20, 2026

Microsoft is ending the Windows Update nightmare — and letting you pause them indefinitely

Microsoft is making changes to its Windows operating system to restore user confidence by giving users more control over automatic updates. Users will soon be able to pause updates as needed, a shift from the previous mandatory update model that often caused disruptions. Microsoft assures that users will only need to reboot their systems once a month for updates, with options for quicker installations for those wanting the latest features. The company is also improving overall system performance, responsiveness, and stability, including faster application launches and a streamlined setup process for new devices. Users will have the option to use gamepad controls for PIN creation during setup. Microsoft is addressing user feedback to enhance the Windows experience, though it remains to be seen if they will fully move away from promoting their own products over competitors.
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