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Windows 11 is set to offer users a smarter and more personalized experience with a fresh batch of “recommendations” in its new Beta release. While many might bristle at the idea of being bombarded with suggestions, these new features are focused on enhancing user productivity without resorting to invasive ads. Here’s what’s changing and why it might be exactly what you need.
What’s New in Windows 11 Recommendations?
Microsoft is rolling out several useful updates for Windows 11 users in the Beta channel (build 22635.5025), and these changes focus on improving the Start menu and File Explorer, two crucial parts of the user experience.
One key addition is a new feature in the Start menu that displays “recommended” apps which are frequently used together side-by-side. For example, if you regularly use WhatsApp and File Explorer together, the Start menu will suggest opening both apps simultaneously, making it easy to snap them together and boost productivity.
Another helpful update comes to File Explorer. The “Recommended” section on the File Explorer homepage will now show files that have been recently downloaded or are frequently accessed. This means that users will have quick access to relevant files without the need to search through endless folders.
It’s important to note that these updates are currently available only to users in regions outside the European Economic Area (EEA), and only those logged into a Microsoft or local account will benefit from these changes.
Microsoft is also addressing performance issues, such as the frustrating bug that causes File Explorer to freeze when closed via the “X” button. This fix will certainly be a relief to those dealing with sluggish Explorer performance.
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These new “recommendations” might be met with skepticism from users who are tired of being constantly pestered with pop-up suggestions, but Microsoft has taken a more thoughtful approach here. The changes focus on improving user experience and productivity, rather than pushing unnecessary ads or bloated features.
For instance, the app recommendations in the Start menu aim to streamline workflows. By suggesting apps that are often used together, like WhatsApp and File Explorer, Microsoft is essentially giving users a productivity boost without intruding on their experience. The ability to quickly snap apps together and start working with them side-by-side is a small but useful time-saver, especially for those juggling multiple tasks at once.
Similarly, the new “Recommended” files section in File Explorer is designed to save time. It’s no longer necessary to search for a file that you use often or recently downloaded—it will just be there, ready to go. For users who frequently access the same documents or projects, this is a helpful feature that reduces friction and simplifies everyday tasks.
However, not all users will be thrilled with these suggestions. Some will undoubtedly feel that these features clutter their interface, especially if they prefer a minimalist experience. It’s important to remember that Microsoft is not forcing these recommendations onto users; they are optional, and can be easily ignored or hidden if desired.
While these changes are undoubtedly useful for a large portion of the user base, there are still significant performance issues to address in Windows 11. File Explorer, in particular, remains a sore point for many users, with slowdowns and glitches continuing to plague the app. Hopefully, these new recommendations will be accompanied by further performance improvements that will enhance the overall experience.
Fact Checker Results:
- Beta Channel Update: The new recommendations are part of a Beta release, which means they’re still in testing and not yet available to all users.
- Regional Limitations: These features are not currently available to users in the European Economic Area (EEA).
- File Explorer Bug Fix: Microsoft is addressing the File Explorer bug where the app fails to close properly using the “X” button.
References:
Reported By: https://www.techradar.com/computing/windows/windows-11-users-get-ready-for-more-recommendations-from-microsoft-but-im-relieved-to-say-these-suggestions-might-actually-be-useful
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