Microsoft has another big change for Windows 11
Microsoft seems to make a big change in one of the most useful features of Windows 11, with a redesigned task manager appearing in the new version for review.
Preview versions of Windows 11 are available to select users who have signed up for Windows Insiders. They can check for new and upcoming features, point out problems or bugs at the same time, give Microsoft a good idea of the type of reception the new feature will get and have problems spotted and fixed before being introduced to anyone currently using Windows 11.
As reported by Windows Central, the latest version 22538, comes with a tweaked task manager with a new design that is more in line with the rest of the look of Windows 11. Not only does it now look more like Windows 11, switching tabs at the top of the app. Instead, they merge to the left as a menu, much like most modern Windows 11 apps.
Microsoft did not mention any Task Manager settings, and the version in version 22538 seems to be extremely early, as it is not fully functional. If you rely on Task Manager, as many of us do (it’s a handy tool for closing unresponsive programs or checking how your system works), then for now miss Windows 11 build 22538. Still, it gives us an idea of what Microsoft is planning for the legendary Task Manager. Finally, an improved Task Manager?
We’re always glad to hear that Microsoft is working to improve its legacy applications and synchronize with Windows 11. Many of the applications that come with Windows 11, such as Paint, have appeared in various versions of Windows for decades, so many of them are already late for “facelifting” and getting extra features that will make them more useful.
Task Manager is one such tool. It was a major component of the Windows edition of Windows NT 4.0 back in 1996 and is one of the most useful tools included in the operating system. When you press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, Task Manager will appear and display all the applications, services, and processes that are currently running on your computer.
If your computer is running slow, checking Task Manager is a good way to see if there is a specific application that is causing the problem. Also, if the app crashes and stops responding, opening the Task Manager allows you to close it. It’s packed with practical features, many of which haven’t changed in years, and while Microsoft’s moves to fit more into the overall look of Windows 11 are welcome, we also urge caution. When setting up such a useful legacy application, Microsoft must be careful not to miss practical features or simply the application too much, as this could frustrate users who have depended on Task Manager.
Microsoft needs to ensure that the look and feel of Windows 11 stay consistent with both new and older applications, but it also needs to ensure that it doesn’t come at the cost of usability.
We hope to get a clearer idea of what Microsoft plans to do with Task Manager in Windows 11 in upcoming versions of Insider.
