Microsoft plans to roll out a series of updates to Windows 11 next month, addressing user complaints about performance and the intrusive integration of its artificial intelligence assistant, Copilot. The changes, previewed by Pavan Davuluri, Executive Vice President of Windows & Devices at Microsoft, aim to deliver a faster, more stable, and less frustrating user experience, according to a recent blog post.
A key focus of the updates will be File Explorer, which has been a frequent source of criticism for its sluggishness. Microsoft intends to improve its speed and reliability, responding to user reports of lag and inconsistent performance. Alongside File Explorer improvements, Microsoft is recalibrating Copilot’s presence within Windows 11. The company will remove entry points for Copilot from applications like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets, and Notepad, signaling a shift towards a more “intentional” integration of the AI assistant, focusing on scenarios where it provides “genuinely useful” assistance.
The changes extend to update management, giving users greater control over the update process. Microsoft will allow users to skip updates during initial device setup and will offer options to pause updates for extended periods, reducing the frequency of update prompts. Users will too gain the ability to shut down or restart their computers without initiating an update.
Further customization options are also on the horizon. Microsoft plans to allow users to reposition the taskbar to any side of the screen – top, bottom, or either side – a long-requested feature. Widget controls will also be enhanced, providing users with more control over their appearance and personalization of the Discover feed.
Microsoft is also overhauling its Feedback Hub, launching what it describes as the “largest update yet” for Windows Insiders. The redesigned hub aims to streamline the feedback submission process, making it faster and easier for users to report issues and suggestions. Changes to the Windows Insider program itself will aim to improve access to recent features and clarify how user feedback influences the development of Windows.
Beyond user interface and feature adjustments, Microsoft is targeting underlying performance improvements. The company intends to reduce Windows 11’s memory footprint, freeing up resources for applications and improving overall system efficiency. Latency will also be addressed, with optimizations aimed at speeding up search, navigation, and file transfers. Efforts to improve system reliability will focus on reducing operating system crashes, enhancing driver quality, and bolstering app stability.
These updates come as Microsoft continues to position Windows 11 as an “AI PC,” with Copilot at its core. According to a blog post from October 2025, Microsoft aims to create AI more accessible through conversational input, enabling users to interact with their PCs using voice and natural language. Copilot Voice, activated by the “Hey Copilot” wake word, is intended to simplify task completion. Copilot Vision, which analyzes on-screen content, is designed to provide guidance and support for learning new applications and completing projects.
Microsoft’s commitment to improving Windows 11 follows years of criticism regarding the operating system’s bloat and resource demands. Recent reports indicate the company is actively working to reduce the resources consumed by Windows 11, including Copilot, in an effort to create a leaner and more responsive experience.
Davuluri concluded by thanking users for their feedback, stating, “Windows is as much yours as We see ours. We’re committed to strengthening its foundation and delivering innovation where it matters, for you.” The initial updates will be rolled out to Windows Insiders next month, with a wider release expected to follow.
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