Microsoft is preparing a series of quality-of-life improvements for Windows 11, with a particular focus on making the operating system run more smoothly on devices with 8GB of RAM, according to a report from ITmedia.
The report, published on August 2, 2026, outlines Microsoft's ongoing efforts to enhance system responsiveness and streamline the initial setup process. These changes are being positioned as part of the groundwork for the upcoming Windows 11 "26H2" feature update, which is expected to deliver these improvements to the general public starting this fall.
ITmedia notes that Microsoft has been conducting an internal review of system performance, specifically targeting memory usage and background processes that can slow down machines with limited hardware resources. The company appears to be taking a more serious approach to optimizing Windows 11 for lower-spec PCs, a segment that has often struggled with the operating system's relatively high baseline requirements.
In addition to memory optimization, the report highlights plans to simplify the out-of-box experience, reducing the number of steps and prompts users encounter when setting up a new device. This could make Windows 11 less intimidating for less technical users and reduce the time it takes to get a fresh installation ready for daily use.
Another notable change mentioned in the reporting involves File Explorer. Microsoft is testing a feature that would allow users to open folders in new tabs by clicking the middle mouse button, a small but practical addition for power users who frequently work with multiple directories.
The 26H2 update is shaping up to be a significant release for Windows 11, with a clear emphasis on addressing long-standing complaints about performance and usability. As the fall rollout approaches, users with modest hardware will be watching closely to see if these optimizations deliver on their promise.
