Windows 11 is broken — and Microsoft is fixing the wrong things
Microsoft has been rolling out updates and corrections to Windows 11 but perhaps the operating system is past saving?
Windows 11 has become a broken mess, with Microsoft focusing on the wrong improvements, according to the company's head of Windows, Pavan Davuluri. In an update last week, Davuluri revealed changes that the team has implemented over the past months, including a faster and more reliable File Explorer and more customization options for the taskbar. However, these changes feel like basic necessities that should have been addressed a long time ago, highlighting Microsoft's disconnect from its customers' needs.
The company's recent updates have helped fix some foundational issues, but some users feel that Windows 11 is too far gone to be salvaged. Former Windows developer Andy Young pointed out that even with 128GB of RAM, the Search Bar remains laggy and causes major issues when searching. Microsoft has acknowledged and fixed the problem, but it took one of their own to highlight the issue. The constant interjections from Copilot and other AI features also contribute to the overall sense of bloat and instability.
Microsoft's focus on AI and other trends appears to be overshadowing the need for a stable, secure operating system. The company has been chasing various trends, from Android apps to mixed reality and Cortana, without ever delivering a truly reliable Windows experience. This disregard for the core needs of consumers has led to a perception that it's time to move on from Windows 11 and embrace the upcoming Windows 12, which is expected to have a significant AI component.
The comparison to Apple's recent struggles demonstrates the importance of maintaining a stable foundation. While Apple's recent issues may seem minor in comparison, they highlight the consequences of neglecting the core experience. Windows 11's modularity has always been one of its strengths, but recent years have seen it lose its way, leaving many users questioning whether Microsoft can turn the ship around without starting from scratch.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.