Microsoft Addresses Backlash from Windows 11 AI OS Power Users: ‘We Care Deeply About You’

Microsoft has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) features into Windows 11, envisioning what it describes as an “Agentic Operating System.”Amidst significant pushback from users, particularly developers, Windows chief Pavan Davuluri is emphasizing that the company continues to prioritize and value the needs and feedback of power users.

In a response to concerns that Windows may no longer cater to developers, Davuluri stated, “The team (and I) take in a ton of feedback. We balance what we see in our product feedback systems with what we hear directly.” His remarks were shared in a recent post on X.

Backlash Following “Agentic”Vision Announcement

On November 10, Pavan Davuluri, the leader of Microsoft’s Windows + Devices unit, shared an ambitious vision for Windows, referring to its evolution towards an “agentic”OS that integrates devices, cloud services, and AI to enhance productivity and secure work environments. He invited users to join #MSIgnite to explore how leading firms are adapting to this new platform.

However, his announcement ignited a storm of criticism online, suggesting that many Windows users feel their feedback has been disregarded. When Windows Latest highlighted his post, it rapidly accumulated over 1.5 million views, prompting Microsoft to close comments due to overwhelming negative reactions.

User Sentiment: “Windows is Not the Same Anymore”

Longtime users like Ron Dunn, who has utilized Microsoft products since 1982, expressed their discontent, stating, “I just closed my Microsoft 365 account… AI has made you insane, ” in a post on X. His remarks reflect a broader sentiment among users frustrated with the direction of Windows.

Other users mirrored this frustration, questioning the practicality of pursuing an “Agentic OS”when the basics, such as taskbar functionality, remain problematic. One user remarked, “If you can’t even build a taskbar, how would you build an AI OS?” highlighting the prevailing concerns about performance and user experience.

Small taskbar icons — Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

Microsoft’s Response to Criticism

As criticism increased, even drawing attention from notable tech influencers, Microsoft’s Davuluri attempted to address these concerns. Gergely Orosz, a technology newsletter author, stated that Windows no longer appeals to developers, advocating instead for alternatives like Mac or Linux.

In his follow-up comments, Davuluri reiterated Microsoft’s commitment to listening to developer feedback: “We know we have work to do on the experience, both on everyday usability and power user experiences… We want developers to choose Windows.”

Understanding the Concept of an “Agentic OS”

The vision for an “Agentic OS” represents a shift where technology is expected to autonomously perform tasks based on user intent, significantly transforming everyday interactions with devices. This includes streamlining tasks like booking travel and managing appointments without active user engagement.

While AI agents have largely existed in web contexts, Microsoft’s aim is to make Windows 11 an integrated platform for these agents, shifting away from merely being an application host to managing tasks autonomously through a new orchestration layer. However, this transition has faced skepticism regarding the current capabilities of AI.

Why Microsoft is Pursuing an “Agentic OS” Vision

The push towards an agentic system is part of a larger industry trend spurred by competitive pressures among tech giants, all eager to capitalize on the AI boom. As investors increasingly favor AI initiatives, Microsoft is keen to enhance Windows with AI capabilities to maintain its relevance.

A Call for Improvement

As a long-time Windows user, I share the disappointment evident in the community regarding the OS. The legacy of reliability that Windows was once known for seems to be eroding amidst issues like intrusive ads, system errors, and performance bottlenecks.

Amidst this transformation, one cannot help but notice the ongoing challenges within Windows 11 as it transitions towards becoming an “Agentic OS.” The discourse surrounding this shift reveals deep-seated user concerns and underscores the need for Microsoft to reconsider its approach.

What are your thoughts on the direction Microsoft is taking with Windows? Join the conversation in the comments below.

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