All articles tagged with #windows11
Microsoft confirms Windows 11 will add a movable Taskbar (bottom, top, left, or right) and a smaller, resizable height, with these options configurable in Settings rather than through a draggable debug menu; flyouts will adapt to the Taskbar’s position, and the changes are prioritized for the current release cycle to boost Windows 11’s customization options.
Xbox revealed that the next-gen console, codenamed Helix, will ship alpha dev kits to developers by the end of 2027, signaling a 2027–2028 launch window; the device is designed to run both Xbox console and PC games, with AMD developing a new SoC and ML features like FSR Diamond, and it will maintain backward compatibility with four Xbox generations; Xbox Mode will bring a Windows 11-exclusive Xbox experience to PCs, building on the Full Screen Experience tested on the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally.
Windows Central reports that Microsoft’s next-gen Xbox is viewed as a best-case arrival in 2027, though no firm launch window or price is locked in. The company is exploring multiple hardware options, possibly including a premium model around $1,000 and partnerships with manufacturers like ASUS, while ensuring Windows 11 compatibility and native Xbox game support. Current Series X|S will likely remain supported for some time, and the timing and pricing depend on tariffs, component costs, geopolitics, and supply chains.
Microsoft’s PowerToys team is prototyping a configurable, top-edge dock for Windows 11 that mirrors Mac/Linux menus. The dock, tied to the Command Palette, can be pinned to any screen edge and host extensions like RAM/CPU info and shortcuts. It’s an early proof-of-concept, with customization options (location, appearance, regions) and a call for GitHub feedback; if popular, it could become an official feature.
In Windows 11 Insider builds, Paint adds a 'Coloring book' AI tool that generates four templates from a text prompt via Copilot (with a new fill-tolerance slider), while Notepad gains streaming AI results for Write/Rewrite/Summarize and enhanced Markdown support, with a new welcome screen; both features appear on Canary/Dev channels and target Copilot-enabled PCs.
The NexPhone, finally shipping in 2026, blends Android on the go with Windows 11 that can boot to a full PC mode when connected to a monitor. It uses the Qualcomm QCM6490 (Windows on ARM) with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, a 6.58-inch 120Hz display, and a 5,000mAh battery, with dual-boot options (Windows 11 or Debian). Priced at $549 with a $199 deposit and EU shipping, it includes a USB-C hub and targets as a PC‑replacement smartphone.
NexDock unveiled the NexPhone, a pocket-sized smartphone that can run Android, Linux, and Windows 11, with Windows 11 usable on the go and a full PC desktop experience when docked to a lapdock or monitor. Specs include a 6.58-inch 120Hz display, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, 5G, and a Qualcomm QCM6490 chip, plus rugged MIL-STD-810H build, microSD, NFC, and 18W charging. It’s set to ship in Q3 2026 for $549, with a $199 deposit that goes toward the price, and ships with a 5-port USB-C hub for expanded connectivity.
Microsoft apologized after mistakenly claiming a Windows update fix that didn't resolve a critical firewall error in Windows 11, which is actually a reporting bug. The issue, affecting the event log, poses no harm, but highlights ongoing update problems for Windows 11 users amid broader OS upgrade concerns. Windows 10 also faces its own update issues, including emoji picker bugs and browser filtering problems.
Microsoft apologized after falsely claiming a Windows 11 update fixed a critical firewall error, which in reality worsened the issue. The error, a reporting bug affecting the event log, poses no harm and can be ignored. The ongoing update problems come as Microsoft encourages users to upgrade to Windows 11, despite extending Windows 10's support until October 2026.
Microsoft has clarified that it has not changed the system requirements for Windows 11, despite confusion from recent headlines suggesting otherwise. The company maintains that PCs must have TPM 2.0 to upgrade to Windows 11, and those that don't meet this requirement will not receive updates, including security patches. This has led to widespread user confusion, as many believed they could upgrade older PCs without losing support. Microsoft advises users with incompatible hardware to remain on Windows 10 to ensure continued security updates.
The Windows 11 KB5048667 update is causing significant issues, including installation failures and performance slowdowns, particularly affecting gaming and CPU performance. Users report errors like 0x800f081f and 0x80070302 during installation, and some experience higher CPU temperatures and stuttering in games. Temporary fixes include rolling back updates or adjusting power settings, but a permanent solution may require a future patch. Additional problems include BSOD errors and playback issues with apps like Netflix and Prime Video.
Microsoft's Recall feature for Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs, which auto-screenshots user activity, has returned after initial security concerns but still poses privacy risks. Despite improvements like encryption and Windows Hello login, the feature's filters fail to consistently block sensitive information, such as credit card details, from being screenshotted. While Recall is opt-in and off by default, its potential to expose sensitive data remains a concern, highlighting the need for further refinement before full release.
Microsoft's new Recall feature for Windows 11, which captures screen snapshots to create a timeline of user activity, has sparked privacy concerns. Initially criticized for potential security issues, Microsoft delayed its release to address these problems. Despite a clunky setup process, the feature allows users to manage which apps are included in the snapshots. While initially unsettling, the feature can be useful for tracking digital activity, though users must be cautious about privacy implications.
Microsoft is enhancing file sharing between Windows 11 PCs and iPhones through the Phone Link and Link to Windows apps, currently available for testing by Windows Insiders with iOS 16 or higher. This update aims to bridge the gap between Windows and iOS, making the experience more akin to Android-Windows connectivity. Additionally, Microsoft released a new Windows 11 Insider build to the Canary Channel, featuring minor updates like improved Start menu jump lists and new Narrator functionalities.
Microsoft has reversed its stance on Windows 11 installation, allowing it on unsupported hardware despite previously insisting on TPM 2.0 as a non-negotiable requirement. The company has issued guidelines for such installations but warns of potential compatibility issues, lack of updates, and voided warranties. Users will see a desktop watermark and may receive notifications about unmet requirements. This change may be influenced by Windows 10's rising market share and the approaching end of its support in 2025.