Microsoft released Windows 11 with much fanfare, but despite the numerous improvements, the operating system still lacks some features present in its predecessor, Windows 10. Additionally, Microsoft made some functionality harder to locate and use in the new OS, which has led to complaints from users. In this article, we will highlight some of the missing features and grievances that Windows 11 users have.
1. Strict Hardware Requirements
One of the major drawbacks of Windows 11 is its strict hardware requirements. While Microsoft offered a free upgrade from Windows 7 and 8.1 to Windows 10, not everyone can upgrade to Windows 11 due to the stringent hardware requirements. PCs over six years old will unlikely have the TPM 2.0 technology in the processor, which is a primary reason why many people are not being offered the Windows 11 update via the Windows update.
While there are ways to bypass the TPM 2.0 requirement and install Windows 11, doing so at your own risk can lead to various issues. Many Windows 10 users would upgrade if Microsoft removed the TPM 2.0 requirement. Meanwhile, you can bypass Windows 11's minimum installation requirements, but keep in mind the risks.
2. Need for a Microsoft Account During Setup
While using a Microsoft account offers several benefits on a Windows 11 PC, it is not mandatory. However, you need a Microsoft account during the setup process, which means you have to create one before proceeding with the installation. If you do not have a Microsoft account, and Windows 11 is the first Microsoft product you're using, you won't be able to complete the installation unless you have another device to create that account quickly.
Many users feel that Microsoft should bring back the old system where a Microsoft account was not mandatory during the setup process.
3. Windows 11 Offers Limited Benefits for Some Users
While Windows 11's new features and design changes are exciting for some users, they do not offer significant benefits for many people. Windows 10 gives users a sense of familiarity because they have been using it for a long time, and they do not feel the need to upgrade.
While keeping devices updated with the latest version of the software is essential, users do not want to upgrade to a new version of the OS if the new features do not significantly improve their workflow. Microsoft needs to add more practical features to Windows 11 to appeal to these users.
4. Changing Default Apps is Complicated
Changing default apps in Windows 11 is a tedious process. Unlike Windows 10, which has a Default apps interface on the Settings page for configuring default apps for email, music, photo viewing, web browser, and more, Windows 11 allows you to set defaults by file or link types. This means you have to select each file or link type and change each default instead of a single switch, just like in Windows 10.
Users want Microsoft to introduce an easier way of changing default apps in Windows 11. Microsoft had already announced that it would introduce a new Settings deep link URI for applications to allow users to change defaults quickly.
5. Limited Functionality of the Windows 11 Taskbar
Windows 11's taskbar has limited functionality, and users have raised complaints about this. The taskbar is currently missing popular features like the "never combine" option, which shows a more informative taskbar button. Users also criticized Microsoft for not allowing the taskbar to move to the sides or the top of the screen.
In response to these complaints, Microsoft is working on adding the never combine app icons option to Windows 11.
In conclusion, while Windows 11 has flaws like every other operating system, it works for most people. If you are not too bothered about the missing features, you will appreciate the new features and updated design. Nevertheless,