Microsoft is optimizing Windows 11 for better performance, reducing memory usage on devices with limited RAM, and enhancing the user experience with faster apps and smoother animations.
© RusPhotoBank
Microsoft is preparing significant changes for Windows 11 aimed at boosting system performance and improving the user experience, even on devices with limited RAM.
One key focus is a complete overhaul of background processes. Currently, the system can consume a substantial portion of available memory. With 8 GB of RAM, only about 2 GB is typically free for the user, while on a 16 GB system, over 10 GB is often occupied by the OS itself. This directly impacts overall speed and the feel of using the PC.
Future updates will introduce new memory management mechanisms designed to allocate resources more efficiently and reduce the load from background tasks. The system is expected to free up memory when needed, such as during intensive browser use or when running other demanding applications. These changes are partly inspired by Apple's success, where users often report a more stable experience even with just 8 GB of memory. In response, Microsoft aims to refine its internal processes and cut down on system overhead.
Beyond memory optimization, the updates will also affect the interface. The company plans to transition to the modern WinUI 3 framework, moving away from a mix of older technologies like WebView2 and React. This shift should reduce latency, speed up applications, and make animations smoother. Key system components are getting upgrades, too. File Explorer will launch faster, search will be more accurate and responsive, and the Start Menu will prioritize showing local files and applications over web results.
The overall goal is for Windows 11 to become lighter, more responsive, and more user-friendly, particularly on hardware with modest amounts of RAM.