If you're still rocking Windows 10, there's something shiny and new on the horizon for you! Microsoft is tinkering with the Settings app in Windows 10, and while this may seem like a benign update at first glance, it appears to serve a much larger purpose—reminding you that Windows 11 beckons. Let’s unpack what’s new and why it might matter to you, even if you're a die-hard Windows 10 fan.
Here’s what’s changing:
Here’s what’s likely pushing these subtle redesigns:
Source: Windows Latest Windows 10’s updated Settings sneak in a Windows 11 reminder, add colours
A New “About” Page: Windows 11’s Shadow Lurks
Microsoft is gently nudging Windows 10 users to think about upgrading to Windows 11, and it’s doing this in the subtlest way possible—by redesigning the System > About page in the Windows 10 Settings app. While the redesigned page isn’t officially rolled out just yet and remains in the testing phase, it reveals a lot about the tech giant’s intentions.Here’s what’s changing:
- A Sprinkle of Windows 11's Look: The new "About" page borrows a lot from Windows 11's minimalist and modern design language but visibly clashes with Windows 10’s current aesthetic. Think of it as attending a formal dinner wearing sneakers—it stands out, and not always in the best way.
- Bubble-Like Info Display: Important information, like Installed RAM, Storage, GPU specs, and Processor Details, is now shown in neat, bubble-like boxes. It's undeniably eye-catching but feels more at home in Windows 11.
- “Frequently Asked Questions” Section: This is where the spotlight turns towards Windows 11. Users are fed useful, newbie-friendly answers to questions like, "Do I have enough RAM for apps to run smoothly?", and "Is my GPU sufficient for high-end gaming?" But then comes the pièce de résistance: “Am I running the latest version of Windows OS?” It’s here that Microsoft expertly slides in a hint about Windows 11 being the newest, most advanced choice, complete with "better navigation, productivity, and security features" reminders for anyone on the fence.
Adding Colours to the Settings Experience
Besides redesigning the "About" page, Microsoft has begun dabbling in aesthetic tweaks across the Windows 10 Settings interface. Prepare yourself for a splash of colors where there were previously none:- Top-Level Icons with Accent Colours:
- Icons like OneDrive, Windows Update, and even Microsoft Rewards are now adorned with accent colors drawn from your desktop theme.
- The inconsistency, though, is glaring. Not all icons get this technicolor makeover. For example, the Microsoft Rewards icon might boast a green hue, while other icons stubbornly stick to the default blue or grey.
- Accent-Driven Menu Items:
- If you’ve fiddled with customizing Windows 10’s colors—like picking a bright orange or soothing teal accent—those will now colorize some sections of the Settings page. It’s hit or miss, though, because only specific items like headings and highlighted sections adopt the accent colors.
Broader Implications: Microsoft’s Ultimate Strategy
If you’re wondering why Microsoft is lavishing such attention on Windows 10 when its spotlight is firmly on Windows 11, here’s the catch—they know millions of you aren’t ready to upgrade. Whether your PC didn’t meet Windows 11’s famously finicky hardware requirements or you just decided, If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, Windows 10 still has a solid user base. With Windows 10’s end-of-support looming in October 2025, though, Microsoft needs you to start thinking about your next steps—and, surprise, step one is Windows 11.Here’s what’s likely pushing these subtle redesigns:
- Familiarizing Users with Windows 11 Aesthetics: By integrating modern design queues and widgets from Windows 11 into Windows 10, Microsoft makes the transition less jarring for users who eventually upgrade. A brilliant soft landing for those wary of change.
- Marketing Tactics Without Ads: Instead of slapping a banner ad saying, “Upgrade to Windows 11”, these FAQ nudges and re-skinned pages organically spark curiosity about what Windows 11 offers.
- End-of-Life Warnings on Horizon: Trust me—this friendly, colorful about-page FAQ section might soon evolve into, "Don't get left behind when support ends. Upgrade now!" It’s gentle now, but expect the gloves to come off as the October 2025 deadline looms closer.
Nostalgia vs. Progress: Should You Care About These Changes?
Let’s be honest: For some of you, Windows 10 is the pinnacle of Microsoft’s efforts. It’s stable, you’ve mastered its quirks, and you resent the idea of upgrading (or smacking into the roadblock of TPM and Secure Boot requirements). So, should these minor tweaks and nudges matter to you? Absolutely. Here’s why:- Prepping for the Future: Whether you like it or not, Windows 11—and eventually, whatever follows it—is where Microsoft’s innovations will unfold. Clinging to Windows 10 might feel solid now, but it’ll turn into an island of obsolescence post-2025. These visual updates remind you to plan ahead, ensuring you don’t face software compatibility woes in the near future.
- Performance and Security Matter: Microsoft sneaks in some real talk amidst its marketing here. Windows 11 does bring tangible benefits in performance and security, especially in a world of rapid advancements (and threats) in computing. If you’re gaming, streaming, or running demanding apps, Windows 11’s enhanced optimization might make a difference.
- Love for User Experience: It’s nice to see Microsoft still caring about Windows 10 users, even if their eventual goal is migration. Adding touches like FAQ guidance and engaging design updates shows they’re committed to easing your experience in the meantime.
What Could Have Been Improved?
For all its brilliance, Microsoft could tweak these changes to polish the experience further:- Consistency in Design: If accent colors are the trend for Settings menus, apply them universally or let users customize the experience. The incomplete application feels lazy rather than intentional.
- Clearer Calls-to-Action for Upgrades: Microsoft seems to have hesitated to flat-out say, "Upgrade to Windows 11—it’s better!" at this stage. As the support window closes for Windows 10, expect clearer messaging that articulates the risks of sticking around.
Do You Have to Upgrade?
Many of you will ponder this: Is upgrading to Windows 11 worth the hype? The answer is, "Not just yet." Windows 10 remains a reliable, secure OS for the time being, but it’s undeniable that the future belongs to Windows 11. If you can make the leap, it might be worth exploring its enhancements sooner rather than later. For those whose hardware doesn’t fit the bill, though, stick around—Windows 10 still has life left in it for the next year or so.Sound Off: What’s Your Take on These Changes?
Whether you’re intrigued, annoyed, or just plain confused by Microsoft marketing Windows 11 via a rebranded “About” page, we want to hear from you. Are you planning on sticking with Windows 10 until the bitter end, or does Windows 11’s promise of productivity and performance have you ready to take the plunge? Let us know in the forum comments, and let's open up the discussion!Source: Windows Latest Windows 10’s updated Settings sneak in a Windows 11 reminder, add colours
