Microsoft testing enhanced energy saver for laptops and desktop PCs in Windows 11
Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 Insider update (Build 26002) will see the operating system’s existing battery-saver option “extended and enhanced”.
However, this time, it doesn’t apply to just laptops. The enhanced “energy saver mode” will also let desktop users reduce power usage if they want to conserve electricity.
“While optimized to extend battery life, energy saver will be available when PCs are plugged in (this includes desktop PCs) for those aiming to conserve energy all the time,” Microsoft said in a blog post.
However, it should be noted that the energy-saver mode will trade off some system performance to help save energy. So, it likely won’t be a popular option for gamers.
The energy saver mode can be toggled on and off through the Quick Settings in the system tray or by going to Settings > System > Power > Energy Saver.
Users can also opt for it to kick in automatically when the device reaches a certain battery percentage.
Other changes and improvements coming in the Windows 11 Insider update include better performance and responsiveness in Quick Settings in the system tray and a refresh button on the Wi-Fi Quick Settings interface.
“We are beginning to roll out a new refresh button on the Wi-Fi Quick Settings flyout so you can now refresh the list of wireless networks available,” said Microsoft.
Currently, Windows 11 users must wait for the list of Wi-Fi networks to refresh automatically or force it to do so by toggling Wi-Fi off and on.
Microsoft says it is also making it easier to manage virtual private networks (VPNs) in Quick Settings.
“If you have a single VPN, a new split toggle lets you turn it on and off with a single click. If you have multiple VPNs, we’ve made some changes to the list to reduce the time it takes to start a connection,” it said.
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