It seems Microsoft wants to rebuild trust with its userbase, particularly for Windows 11 going forward. A worrying trend points towards people returning to Windows 10 despite the end of support, and it’s evident that Linux is getting more popular lately – even for gaming. Speaking of Linux, Microsoft has actually unveiled a new Linux-like top menu bar as part of PowerToys.

In a discussion with The Verge, specifically its Notepad newsletter, Microsoft’s Pavan Davuluri has discussed plans for 2026. Microsoft Insiders are being loud and clear on what they want – updates that “are meaningful for people”. This sounds like a no-brainer for an operating system used by over a billion people (at least according to CEO Satya Nadella), but perhaps it’s fair to say this notion is being clouded by an overwhelming focus on the AI or enterprise side of the business.

“The feedback we’re receiving from our community of passionate customers and Windows Insiders has been clear. We need to improve Windows in ways that are meaningful for people. This year you will see us focus on addressing pain points we hear consistently from customers: improving system performance, reliability, and the overall experience of Windows.”

Pavan Davuluri, President of Windows and Devices

Linux-style bar for Microsoft PowerToys

Microsoft PowerToys is positioned as a set of extra features for power users, providing the end user with more, extra fancy Windows utilities, such as the aptly-named ‘FancyZones’. The new proposed Command Palette Dock is an optional UI surface that provides “persistent, quick access to selected Command Palette extensions”. This means you can actively monitor your system resources without opening Task Manager, and these windows can be customized, adjusted, and resized to your liking.

The feature doesn’t look too far removed from experiences you can get on macOS or a Linux distro. Feedback is being gathered on GitHub – so far, many people are impressed, though some have raised concerns for the loss of screen real estate, suggesting that these features should instead be integrated into the existing taskbar.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.