Microsoft’s Windows 11 has encountered significant challenges throughout 2025, marked by numerous bugs and performance issues. The operating system has been marred by glitches affecting core functionalities, leading to user frustration. Additionally, the company’s focus on integrating more artificial intelligence (AI) into Windows 11 has sparked controversy, with some users expressing their discontent. As Microsoft prepares for 2026, addressing these critical problems is essential for restoring user trust and satisfaction.
Performance Issues Demand Immediate Attention
One of the most pressing concerns is the overall sluggishness of Windows 11. Everyday tasks, such as navigating the File Explorer, can be frustrating due to slow response times. Microsoft acknowledged these performance setbacks and initiated a campaign in July 2025 to gather user feedback and data. Although some improvements have been made, such as updates to File Explorer, significant issues remain. The right-click menu often lags, and users find it unacceptable that the previous version, Windows 10, performs more efficiently.
Microsoft must prioritize resolving these performance issues, particularly with essential tools like File Explorer, to enhance user experience.
Enhancing Gaming Experience on Windows 11
When Windows 11 was introduced, it promised a revamped gaming experience, notably with features like Auto HDR. However, the anticipated benefits have not fully materialized. The DirectStorage feature, designed to optimize game loading times, remains limited to a small selection of titles. Furthermore, numerous glitches have emerged since the 24H2 update, resulting in crashes and performance hitches that frustrate gamers.
Microsoft has recognized these gaming-related problems and has indicated plans to address them. Yet, the timeline for implementing these fixes is uncertain, leading to concerns about the potential impact of competitors like Valve’s SteamOS. If Windows 11 continues to falter in gaming performance, Microsoft risks losing market share to alternative operating systems.
Quality Assurance Improvements Are Essential
Frequent updates to Windows 11 have introduced various peculiar bugs, which highlight the need for a robust quality assurance strategy. Issues reported include inconsistent language displays in the interface and unexpected behavior in applications like Task Manager, which can consume resources unnecessarily. The persistence of these glitches raises questions about Microsoft’s current QA processes, which have been criticized for their effectiveness.
To prevent further damage to Windows 11’s reputation, Microsoft must reevaluate its testing protocols and ensure that future updates are thoroughly vetted before release.
In addition to performance and quality assurance, Microsoft’s aggressive push for AI features has drawn criticism from users. Many feel overwhelmed by the emphasis on AI enhancements while fundamental issues remain unaddressed. Feedback from various platforms indicates that users desire improvements in core functionalities rather than an influx of AI-driven features. Balancing innovation with user needs will be crucial as the company moves forward.
Lastly, the presence of intrusive advertisements within Windows 11 has become a point of contention. While Microsoft has introduced some options to minimize promotional clutter, users are still confronted with numerous suggestions and nudges that detract from the user experience. Given that Windows 11 is a paid operating system, many users expect a cleaner, ad-free environment.
As Microsoft looks ahead to 2026, prioritizing user feedback and addressing these critical issues will be vital for restoring confidence in Windows 11. By focusing on performance, quality assurance, user experience, and reducing advertisements, Microsoft can improve the operating system and regain the loyalty of its user base.
