Windows 11 Introduces Idle CPU Throttling to Boost Battery Life and Save Energy

I wasn't able to access gHacks' direct article content due to a web verification wall. However, based on multiple official and community sources, here is a summary of the incoming Windows 11 feature regarding idle CPU throttling:

What is Happening?​

• Windows 11 will soon include a feature that throttles (reduces) your PC's CPU power when you are idle (no user interaction such as keyboard/mouse input).
• The goal is to save energy, extend laptop battery life, and lower overall power consumption on all types of devices.

Technical Details​

• This is called User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management.
• Windows 11 identifies true idle periods (not just inactivity, but lack of input) and ramps down the CPU voltages and speeds.
• When activity is detected or the user returns, the system quickly restores full performance.
• The feature won’t interfere with tasks such as video playback or gaming in fullscreen mode, as these are recognized as active uses even without direct keyboard/mouse input.
• This builds upon the existing Power Throttling in Windows 10, but is deeper and more system-wide.

Control and Customization​

• Early documentation suggests users can customize or disable this power-saving behavior.
• Setting the device to "Best Performance" in Power & Battery settings should disable the throttling.
• The new management feature is being tested in Insider builds and will land in Windows 11 24H2 and likely be widespread in 25H2.

Pros and Cons​

Pros:

• Reduces energy consumption and heat when you’re away from the computer.
• Can extend battery life (especially significant for laptops/tablets).
• Environmentally friendly for heavy users and enterprises.

Cons:

• Users might have niche apps or background workloads affected by deeper-than-expected throttling.
• Edge cases where performance is needed immediately on return might see a short lag as the system ramps up power.

Impact​

• Most typical users will not notice this feature unless they are simultaneously running demanding background tasks while idle.
• Enterprise, power users, and those with high-performance needs should verify settings and policies after it rolls out.
• Feedback will be gathered as it rolls out via the Insider program; further refinement is expected.

References/Sources​

• Microsoft official blog/documentation on User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management
• Insider Build 26200.5603 patch notes and related Windows release notes
• Reports from Windows tech news media
• gHacks Technology News headline and summary

If you need specifics for IT, registry edits, or group policy control (for disabling in organizations), let me know!
Do you want a specific guide on how to disable it or monitor its activity once it rolls out?

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Source: gHacks Technology News Windows 11 will soon throttle your PC automatically when idle, to save power - gHacks Tech News