Windows 11 Introduces New Recommendations for Start Menu and File Explorer
Microsoft is testing new features for Windows 11 that include app recommendations in the Start menu and suggested files in File Explorer, aimed at enhancing user experience. The Start menu will now suggest apps typically used together, while File Explorer will display relevant files based on user activity, although these changes will not be available in the European Economic Area for now. While some users may find these recommendations helpful, others may view them as unnecessary clutter in the interface.
This initiative reflects Microsoft's ongoing commitment to improving user experience in Windows 11, indicating a potential shift towards more personalized interactions within the operating system.
How will user feedback on these new features influence Microsoft's future updates and the overall design of Windows 11?
While Microsoft's efforts seem to be paying off, the company's pushy approach to getting users to switch to Windows 11 has sparked debate among tech enthusiasts. On one hand, it appears that the company is successfully winning over users from Windows 10. On the other hand, some critics argue that Microsoft is being overly aggressive in its marketing efforts.
The ongoing competition between Microsoft and rival operating systems like Chrome OS highlights the evolving landscape of personal computing, where flexibility and customization are increasingly important to users.
Will Microsoft's continued emphasis on cloud-based security features, such as Smart App Control, ultimately lead to a shift away from traditional software licensing models in the PC industry?
If you’ve accidentally lost your files then here’s how to recover files in Windows 11. You have two options to recover files, so even if you have emptied your Recycle Bin (where files are temporarily stored before they are completely deleted), there are still ways to find documents you may have accidentally lost. It’s worth noting if you want to be able to recover files in Windows 11 often, then you should perform backups of your files frequently.
This step-by-step guide underscores the importance of digital citizenship, where users must take responsibility for their own data management, and highlights the need for built-in tools like File History to mitigate accidental deletions.
What role do user education and awareness programs play in preventing careless file deletion, and how can technology be designed to prevent such mistakes from occurring in the first place?
Microsoft has redeveloped its AI-powered Copilot app from scratch to provide a better user experience that is fully integrated into the Windows 11 operating system. With the new version, users can expect faster response times and more personalized answers, making it easier to use the app's features such as picture-in-picture mode and taskbar integration. The redesign also reduces memory usage, requiring only 50-100 MB of RAM on average.
The native integration of Copilot into Windows 11 may set a new standard for AI-powered productivity tools, but how will this impact the broader software ecosystem and drive innovation in the industry?
Will Microsoft's renewed focus on Copilot lead to increased competition from other AI-powered apps, or will it further consolidate market share?
For businesses navigating the rapidly changing technological landscape, choosing the right operating system is a crucial decision that impacts productivity, security, and cost. While Windows 11 remains a dominant presence in the corporate world, Linux has emerged as a strong alternative, offering flexibility, open-source advantages, and a robust environment tailored to specific business needs. This article comprehensively compares Windows 11 and Linux for business use, examining key factors such as software compatibility, security features, hardware requirements, cost considerations, and ease of use.
The choice between Windows 11 and Linux for business ultimately depends on a company's willingness to invest in training employees to adapt to new operating systems and navigate the nuances of open-source software.
As the technology landscape continues to evolve, how will businesses address the growing need for hybrid IT environments that seamlessly integrate both cloud-based and on-premise solutions?
Windows 11 offers a built-in tool for mirroring your Samsung phone's screen, enabling users to access apps on a larger display without additional downloads. While the feature is integrated into the Phone Link app, it is limited to specific Android devices, primarily recent Samsung Galaxy models, though support is gradually expanding to include more brands. This functionality enhances user experience, particularly for tasks like gaming and photo editing, by allowing the use of a mouse and keyboard.
This development highlights the increasing integration of mobile and desktop ecosystems, providing users with seamless multitasking capabilities that were previously reserved for Apple products.
As more brands gain compatibility, how might this shift the competitive landscape between Android and iOS in terms of user experience and functionality?
Microsoft's recent update to Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 has improved the accuracy of CPU utilization readings displayed in the Task Manager. The updated feature now uses standard metrics to display CPU workload consistently across all pages, aligning with industry standards and third-party tools. This change addresses the previous inaccuracy caused by basing computations on the base clock rather than actual or boost frequencies.
The push for more accurate CPU utilization readings is a prime example of how small updates can trickle down from enthusiast communities to mainstream users, highlighting the importance of feedback loops in the software development process.
What role will this increased accuracy play in the broader context of PC performance optimization, and how might it impact the adoption of overclocking techniques among users?
Microsoft has updated its support document for Windows 11 24H2 to include a broader range of compatible Intel processors, including several 8th, 9th, and 10th-generation models that were previously excluded. This update allows original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) building new Windows 11 devices to use these older processors, as long as their motherboards meet the required TPM 2.0 specification. The company's decision to expand support for these older CPUs may help alleviate compatibility issues for OEMs, but it also leaves individual users and custom PC builders with limited options.
As the pace of technological change accelerates, companies like Microsoft are increasingly forced to navigate the fine line between supporting legacy systems and pushing for innovation through new hardware standards.
What implications will this shift in support policies have on the wider ecosystem of Windows 11 developers, from software vendors to individual users?
Windows 11 is warning some users to back up their PCs with a banner in the Settings app, which may seem like a useful feature at first but has become bothersome for others. The nagging message is tied specifically to Microsoft's OneDrive cloud storage locker and requires users to have enough storage space, prompting them to buy more if necessary. This approach may be seen as a way to promote the backup service, but it's also an example of overreaching by Microsoft.
The tension between nudging users towards a particular service versus giving them genuine choice is a delicate balance that tech companies must navigate.
Will this approach become a standard practice for Windows updates, potentially leading to a culture of nagging users into using specific services?
Windows 11 is getting a change to avoid confusion around different reports of CPU usage levels in Task Manager. This is just in testing, but should be rolling out to Windows 11 24H2 and 23H2 soon. A lock screen feature to give Windows 11 users the ability to pick and choose widgets is also inbound. Windows 11 has a new preview release which tinkers with Task Manager to make sure it correctly shows consistent figures for the breakdown of processor usage across its various menus.
The consistent reporting of CPU usage in Task Manager may signal a broader trend towards greater transparency and standardization in Windows, potentially setting a precedent for future updates.
How will this change impact the overall user experience of Windows 11, particularly for power users who rely on accurate system resource monitoring?
Copilot is getting a new look with an all-new card-based design across mobile, web, and Windows, allowing users to see what they're looking at, converse in natural voice, and access a virtual news presenter. The new features include personalized Copilot Vision, OpenAI-like natural voice conversation mode, and a revamped AI-powered Windows Search that includes a "Click to Do" feature. Additionally, Paint and Photos are getting fun new features like Generative Fill and Erase.
The integration of AI-driven search capabilities in Windows may be the key to unlocking a new era of personal productivity and seamless interaction with digital content.
As Microsoft's Copilot becomes more pervasive in the operating system, will its reliance on OpenAI models create new concerns about data ownership and user agency?
Microsoft's latest Windows 11 24H2 update has been plagued by bugs, with several issues still causing problems for users despite multiple patches. The update enhances performance and introduces new features, but its reliability remains a concern. Several sets of patches have been rolled out so far, but the barrage of glitches continues to affect some users.
The ongoing issue with Windows 11 24H2 highlights the challenges of delivering complex software updates without compromising user experience or introducing new bugs.
How will Microsoft's approach to addressing these issues impact its reputation as a developer of reliable and stable operating systems?
Copilot is a highly anticipated AI-powered personal assistant that now has an improved user interface on Windows 11. The new app features a side panel, keyboard shortcuts, and a redesigned look that aims to make it more intuitive and user-friendly. Microsoft's revamped Copilot app for Windows finally matches the design of its macOS counterpart, providing a more seamless experience for users.
This redesign signifies a significant step forward in integrating AI-powered assistants into mainstream computing, where usability is key to unlocking their full potential.
How will the incorporation of AI-powered tools like Copilot impact the way we interact with technology in our daily lives and work environments?
Microsoft continues its quest to vanquish bugs from Windows 11 24H2, and the latest update seems to fix a number of them. Released this past Tuesday, KB5052093 is an optional update, which means you may have to wait for it to appear or manually download and install it if you're in a hurry. The new update improves performance and fixes several glitches that were plaguing users.
This update represents a significant effort by Microsoft to address the lingering issues with Windows 11 24H2, which had raised concerns about stability and reliability.
How will this improved patch cycle impact user trust and confidence in Microsoft's ability to deliver reliable software updates?
Firefox's latest update introduces vertical tabs, allowing users to manage numerous open web pages more efficiently by displaying them in a sidebar. This feature, which can be quickly enabled from the tab bar, enhances usability by providing options to organize and customize tab visibility. Alongside this, Firefox 136 includes various improvements and security updates, positioning the browser as a competitive player in the ongoing browser battle.
The introduction of vertical tabs reflects a growing recognition of user experience in web browsing, potentially influencing other browsers to adopt similar features for better management of open pages.
Will the functionality of vertical tabs be enough to persuade users to switch back to Firefox from more popular browsers?
Microsoft Word provides a streamlined method for comparing different versions of a document, facilitating the identification of changes between drafts. Users can utilize the Track Changes feature to automatically highlight edits or manually compare documents through the Review ribbon by selecting the original and revised files. The process allows for customization in how changes are displayed, enhancing clarity in document revisions.
This feature not only improves collaboration among editors but also underscores the importance of version control in maintaining document integrity throughout the editing process.
In what ways could advancements in document comparison technology further enhance collaborative writing and editing in digital environments?
Shazam has introduced a useful update that enhances its integration with Spotify and Apple Music by allowing users to automatically add identified songs to a dedicated playlist titled 'My Shazam Tracks.' This feature, available in Shazam version 18.9, enables songs recognized through various methods, including Siri and the Control Center, to sync directly to users' music accounts. The update reflects Shazam's evolution beyond mere song recognition, streamlining the listening experience for users of major streaming platforms.
This enhancement highlights the increasing importance of seamless integration in music apps, making it easier for users to curate and enjoy their favorite tracks without manual effort.
How might Shazam's new capabilities influence user behavior in music discovery and playlist curation within the competitive streaming landscape?
The evolution of web browsers reflects a shift from consumer-focused tools designed solely for information access to specialized enterprise browsers that prioritize security and productivity. While traditional consumer browsers have remained largely unchanged, they struggle to meet the complex needs of enterprises that require enhanced control and safety measures. Enterprise browsers, designed from the ground up, integrate security features and application delivery capabilities, promoting efficiency while safeguarding corporate resources.
This distinction between consumer and enterprise browsers highlights the necessity for tailored solutions in a rapidly changing digital landscape, where security and usability are paramount for organizational success.
As businesses increasingly rely on digital tools, how might the growing divide between consumer and enterprise browser functionalities shape user expectations and technological advancements in the future?
Microsoft's AI assistant Copilot will no longer provide guidance on how to activate pirated versions of Windows 11. The update aims to curb digital piracy by ensuring users are aware that it is both illegal and against Microsoft's user agreement. As a result, if asked about pirating software, Copilot now responds that it cannot assist with such actions.
This move highlights the evolving relationship between technology companies and piracy, where AI-powered tools must be reined in to prevent exploitation.
Will this update lead to increased scrutiny on other tech giants' AI policies, forcing them to reassess their approaches to combating digital piracy?
Microsoft has implemented a patch to its Windows Copilot, preventing the AI assistant from inadvertently facilitating the activation of unlicensed copies of its operating system. The update addresses previous concerns that Copilot was recommending third-party tools and methods to bypass Microsoft's licensing system, reinforcing the importance of using legitimate software. While this move showcases Microsoft's commitment to refining its AI capabilities, unauthorized activation methods for Windows 11 remain available online, albeit no longer promoted by Copilot.
This update highlights the ongoing challenges technology companies face in balancing innovation with the need to protect their intellectual property and combat piracy in an increasingly digital landscape.
What further measures could Microsoft take to ensure that its AI tools promote legal compliance while still providing effective support to users?
Google has announced several changes to its widgets system on Android that will make it easier for app developers to reach their users. The company is preparing to roll out new features to Android phones, tablets, and foldable devices, as well as on Google Play, aimed at improving widget discovery. These updates include a new visual badge that displays on an app's detail page and a dedicated search filter to help users find apps with widgets.
By making it easier for users to discover and download apps with widgets, Google is poised to further enhance the Android home screen experience, potentially leading to increased engagement and user retention among developers.
Will this move by Google lead to a proliferation of high-quality widget-enabled apps on the Play Store, or will it simply result in more widgets cluttering users' homescreens?
Windows 11 users can now use the JPEG XL image extension, which offers better compression, optimized for web environments, and supports wide color scales, high bit depths, and dynamic ranges. The new format provides significantly better image quality and compression compared to older JPEG formats. It also features advanced coding technologies, such as lossless and progressive coding, animation, alpha channels, layers, thumbnails, and more.
The adoption of JPEG XL could signal a shift away from the outdated JPEG format in web content creation, potentially driving innovation in digital photography and image processing.
How will the increased use of JPEG XL impact the development of image compression algorithms and technologies in the coming years?
Mozilla is revising its new Firefox terms of use following criticism over language that seemed to give the company broad ownership over user data. The revised terms aim to provide more clarity on how Mozilla uses user data, emphasizing that it only processes data as needed to operate the browser and improve user experience. The changes come after concerns from users and advocacy groups about the initial language's potential implications for user privacy.
This revision highlights the ongoing tension between user privacy and the need for companies like Mozilla to collect and use data to deliver services.
Will these changes be enough to alleviate user concerns, or will further revisions be needed to restore trust in Mozilla's handling of sensitive information?
Mozilla's latest update to Firefox adds a long-awaited feature, plus a few other bits and bobs. With the recent Firefox 136 update, Mozilla’s web browser got several improvements and new features, including vertical tabs that sit in a new sidebar and provide a better overview when you have tons of open tabs. The update brings improved security via fixed vulnerabilities, which apply to Firefox ESR and Tor Browser as well.
This welcome change is a testament to the browser's evolving capacity for user-centric design, where functionality meets aesthetics in a harmonious union.
Can native vertical tabs be the harbinger of a new era in web browsing, one that prioritizes organization, efficiency, and intuitive navigation?
Windows 11 Pro is offering a limited-time discount of $14.97 until March 30, allowing gamers to upgrade their performance and enjoy faster load times, enhanced visuals, and smoother gameplay. The operating system's DirectStorage feature reduces loading times by sending game data directly to the GPU, while Auto HDR enhances graphics with sharper, more vivid images. DirectX 12 Ultimate enables ray tracing and advanced rendering for a next-gen gaming experience.
This deeply discounted upgrade could be a major turning point for PC gamers who have been holding back due to outdated hardware or slow performance.
Will Microsoft continue to offer such significant discounts on its operating system in the future, potentially democratizing access to high-performance computing for more gamers?
The bug affects users of Windows 11 24H2 after changing languages, resulting in menus being displayed in both languages. The issue has been reported since the release of the 24H2 update in October 2024 and affects some but not all systems. Microsoft has released an optional patch that appears to have fixed the problem for some users.
This bug highlights the challenges of managing multiple languages in a single interface, particularly in a complex operating system like Windows 11.
Will this bug be a precursor to more widespread language-related issues in future Windows updates, and how will Microsoft address these concerns in the future?