On October 15, 2026, Microsoft announced Windows 11 responsiveness and memory changes, including adjustments aimed at PCs with 8 GB of memory or less. Its performance figures compare two specific builds and named Windows tasks, while the memory changes address how Windows handles active data and Widgets. Microsoft’s announcement also says results vary by device, configuration, and use.
What Microsoft’s 20% responsiveness figure measures
Microsoft reports up to 20% greater responsiveness based on response-time measurements for Search, Start, right-click, Settings, Snipping Tool, and File Explorer on Windows 11 build 26300.9550 compared with build 26200.7628. Separately, Microsoft says the Photos app launches up to 20% faster on those same builds. That is an app launch-time measure, distinct from the response-time results for the six Windows experiences.
What changes on PCs with 8 GB of memory or less
On PCs with 8 GB of memory or less, Microsoft says Widgets load only when opened, making more than 200 MB available for apps and other work. The company also says Windows can keep up to 2 GB more active data in memory rather than moving it to slower storage—a memory-management change intended to help responsiveness as people open more apps or browser tabs. Microsoft says the described memory improvements are included in build 26300.9550.
When Microsoft says redesigned Windows Search will roll out
On October 15, Microsoft said the redesigned Windows Search experience was available to Windows Insiders, with a broader rollout planned for later in 2026. The company said timing and availability may vary by device and region.
