Microsoft has unveiled the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360, rolling out to both the Dev and Beta Channels. This update brings a subtle yet significant enhancement to the Windows Task Manager, a tool that many users rely on for monitoring system performance.
Enhancements to Task Manager
According to the Windows Blog, the Task Manager will now utilize standardized metrics to present CPU workload across all its pages, aligning with industry benchmarks and third-party applications. This adjustment means that the Details tab within Task Manager will now provide a more precise representation of your PC’s current CPU utilization.
Previously, the Task Manager faced criticism for its reporting inaccuracies, as it calculated CPU performance based on the processor’s base clock speed rather than its actual or boost frequency. This discrepancy often resulted in lower-than-expected CPU utilization readings. In instances where the processor was fully engaged, users might have noticed CPU utilization figures exceeding 100% in the Details tab, necessitating manual calculations to understand true performance levels.
In addition to these changes, Microsoft had previously updated how Task Manager reports RAM speeds, transitioning from MHz to the more technically accurate MT/s in May 2024. While these updates may not significantly affect the average Windows user, they are likely to resonate with tech enthusiasts who appreciate precise data. By providing more accurate readings, Microsoft aims to enhance the user experience for those who remain loyal to the operating system.