What’s New in Task Manager?
The Task Manager in Windows 11 has long provided basic information regarding the drives connected to a system, primarily indicating whether a drive is an SSD or a traditional Hard Drive Disk (HDD). With this new feature, however, users will gain much deeper insights. It's set to categorize SSDs distinctly, allowing users to see if they are using M.2 NVMe drives, M.2 SATA drives, or other types of SSDs.Furthermore, the update promises that the Task Manager's Performance page will categorize disks by their type, making it easier for users to identify what they have at a glance. This change is aimed at enhancing user experience by making information more accessible and informative.
Availability and Insider Program
Although the new functionality is currently part of the latest Beta build, specific details regarding its public release are still vague. Microsoft has not provided a definitive timeline, but insiders involved in the Windows Insider program can test these features ahead of the general rollout. For those willing to explore, early access can reportedly be obtained by manipulating system files with third-party tools like the ViveTool app. However, this method comes with the risk of potential system issues, prompting a word of caution for adventurous users.Exploring Drive Information Without Insider Access
Even if you’re not in the Insider program or don't wish to delve into file manipulation, you can still view the basic specifications of your SSD. Simply navigate to Settings > System > Storage > Advanced Storage Settings > Disk & Volumes and select Properties next to your drive. This provides a straightforward, albeit more simplistic, method to glean essential information about your storage without the enhanced granularity that the upcoming Task Manager update offers.Implications for Windows Users
This new feature is more than a convenient label; it reflects a growing trend towards more user-friendly hardware management in operating systems. For tech-savvy users, having immediate access to such specific information can aid in troubleshooting, optimization, and upgrades. As SSD technology continues to evolve and diversify, knowing the exact type of drive in use will assist users in making informed decisions, especially regarding compatibility and performance enhancements.Overall, the introduction of this feature is indicative of Microsoft's ongoing commitment to improve user experience within Windows 11. By better delineating SSD types, the company not only enriches user interaction with the system but also fosters a greater understanding of the underlying technology that powers modern computing.
As Windows 11 continues to evolve with these types of enhancements, it lays the groundwork for an operating system that not only functions robustly but also empowers users with detailed insights into their hardware capabilities. This can lead to improved performance and user satisfaction as the platform matures.
Source: Windows Report Windows 11 will tell you what type of SSD you have directly in Task Manager