Microsoft has begun testing a Windows 11 feature that helps users improve laptop battery life.
As The Verge reports, the opt-in feature is called adaptive energy saver, and it automatically enables or disables the main energy saver feature based on what you’re doing. In a move away from traditional battery saver features, this one doesn’t merely depend on the amount of charge left in a battery.
The feature is currently being tested in the Canary Channel, the earliest stage of Microsoft’s testing. Typically, a Windows feature undergoes a few more rounds of testing before it becomes widely available.
Right now, some Insiders may see the feature get enabled, Microsoft says. To enable it manually, go to Settings > System > Power & battery and select the Adaptive option from the dropdown menu below Energy saver. Since it’s a feature meant for devices with batteries, it’s only available for laptops.
The existing Windows 11 energy saver, on the other hand, works for both desktop PCs and laptops. When in action, it reduces screen brightness, limits background tasks and automatic syncing, and pauses automatic updates. You can enable it manually from Settings or set it to turn on automatically when the battery goes below a certain percentage.
While Microsoft’s note about the new adaptive energy saver was brief, The Verge reports that it won’t reduce screen brightness like the main energy saver does.
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Another Windows 11 update Microsoft is working on is the positioning of indicators for brightness and volume levels. After moving the indicators to the bottom-center of the screen initially, Microsoft has reversed course to let users place the indicators at either the top-left of the screen or the top-center.
Meanwhile, if you are using Office apps on Windows 10, there’s some bad news. Individual and Family users will stop receiving new app updates after August 2026, though security updates will continue through August 2028.
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About Jibin Joseph
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