In a fascinating twist within the tech community, a dedicated enthusiast has successfully infused a nostalgic 90s aesthetic into Windows 11, reminiscent of Microsoft’s classic graphical user interface (GUI). This creative endeavor was showcased on Reddit’s r/windows98 subreddit, where the user, known as Awirstam, shared their innovative project.
What you need to know
- A tech enthusiast brings Microsoft’s retro GUI to Windows 11.
- The user achieved this feat using third-party tools, including WindowBlinds, Retrobar, and Winaero Tweaker.
- Windows 10 is slated to hit its end-of-support a little under one year, though Windows 11’s market share is growing steadily.
As the countdown to Windows 10’s end-of-support on October 14, 2025, approaches, the operating system still commands a significant market share of 62.79%. In contrast, Windows 11 has seen a gradual increase, rising from 23.64% in September to 33.37% recently. Despite Microsoft’s ambitious AI initiatives for Windows 11, many users remain hesitant to transition from Windows 10, often citing stringent system requirements and design concerns as barriers to upgrading.
Awirstam’s project not only adds a retro flair to Windows 11 but also ensures a cohesive aesthetic across popular applications like Steam, Discord, and Telegram. The transformation was accomplished through a combination of third-party applications, including WindowBlinds, Retrobar, and Winaero Tweaker. However, it is essential to approach such modifications with caution, as altering Windows 11’s architecture could pose risks to device functionality.
Windows 11 is gaining traction
(Image credit: Windows Central / Zac Bowden)
Recent insights from IDC indicate that the surge in AI PC shipments is not solely due to the devices’ AI capabilities but rather a growing consumer demand to upgrade to Windows 11 and secure future-proof technology. Meanwhile, Microsoft appears to be largely unresponsive to user concerns regarding the impending discontinuation of Windows 10. A public interest group had previously submitted a petition urging the tech giant to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the potential environmental impact and sustainability issues that could arise from a significant increase in discarded computers.
