Microsoft is currently developing an innovative feature for Windows 11 that aims to enhance user comprehension regarding how insufficient RAM or a less powerful GPU can impact overall PC performance. The latest preview builds of Windows 11 have introduced a new frequently asked questions (FAQ) section within the system settings, addressing key topics such as GPU memory, system RAM, and even different OS versions.
Windows enthusiast and contributor, known as phantomofearth, recently uncovered this new FAQ section in the latest Dev Channel build of Windows 11, released earlier this week. Although Microsoft has not officially confirmed the development of this FAQ feature, it is currently hidden and requires manual activation in the latest builds. This suggests that they are in the testing phase, gathering feedback before a broader rollout.
The FAQ section provides users with critical insights regarding common issues, such as the challenges posed by low RAM. It also offers recommendations for users whose GPUs possess less than 4GB of memory. Additionally, if users are not operating on the latest version of Windows 11, this will be flagged prominently within this section, prompting necessary updates.
While the FAQ list is a valuable resource, it remains unclear how dynamic this information will be. It is possible that the answers are static, tailored specifically to your RAM and GPU configuration. Alternatively, they may adapt according to various system setups. For instance, a high-end system running the latest OS version might not require such FAQs, but the true functionality will become evident once Microsoft officially rolls out the feature.
Historically, Microsoft utilized a scoring system known as the Windows Experience Index, which began with Windows Vista. This system evaluated each hardware component of a PC, assigning a subscore that contributed to an overall rating. This provided users with a clear understanding of how well their PC could handle the latest versions of Windows. The introduction of the FAQ feature in the Dev Channel builds indicates that Microsoft may be looking to revive this concept in a more user-friendly format.
The presence of this FAQ feature in the Dev Channel builds suggests that it could be made available to all Windows 11 users in the upcoming months. Microsoft typically tests features within the Dev Channel that are nearing release, particularly in anticipation of the 24H2 update for Windows 11. However, it is worth noting that the company occasionally decides to scrap features before they reach the public, so it remains to be seen how this will play out.
In conclusion, the new FAQ feature in Windows 11 is a promising development that could significantly aid users in understanding the relationship between their hardware specifications and overall system performance. As Microsoft continues to refine this feature, it will be interesting to see how it evolves and benefits the broader Windows community.