Microsoft will use your CPU to speed up Windows 11 apps and animations

Microsoft has responded to user complaints about Windows 11 performance by introducing a new method to improve speed in core components like the Start menu and File Explorer. The company announced the addition of a "low latency profile" that temporarily increases CPU speed when opening applications or context menus.

Windows Central tested this feature in test builds and observed a noticeable boost in responsiveness on similar hardware. Some social media users criticized Microsoft, fearing it could increase power consumption and reduce battery life, accusing the company of relying on hardware rather than software optimization.

"All modern operating systems do this, including macOS and Linux," said Scott Hanselman, Microsoft's VP of GitHub. "It's not cheating; it's how modern systems reduce latency and make apps feel faster."

This behavior, known as "race to sleep," allows the CPU or GPU to use short bursts of power to complete tasks quickly and then return to lower power states, which can save energy overall.

Microsoft is also working on other improvements, like a cleaner widgets panel and more control over updates. The goal is to encourage users and businesses to upgrade, especially as Windows 10 support ends soon and many PCs still run it.

These updates show Microsoft's ongoing commitment to quality and user experience, amid a competitive OS landscape with rising performance expectations.