Microsoft says 8 GB Windows 11 PCs will multitask up to 40% faster. IT teams buying laptops face rising memory prices.
Microsoft announced the changes on Tuesday, The Register reported.
AI data centres are buying up memory supply, while Microsoft's own Copilot+ PCs require at least 16 GB.
Windows will keep up to 2 GB more data in memory before moving it to slower storage. Edge tabs will sleep after 15 minutes instead of two hours, and Teams will switch to an efficiency mode on 8 GB machines. Microsoft also claims up to 20% better responsiveness.
A benchmark Microsoft paid for found a 2026 Dell XPS 13 with 8 GB performed about as well as a 2021 model with 16 GB on selected tasks.
“For many people, 8 GB is a great fit,” Windows chief Pavan Davuluri wrote.
Windows OEM and devices revenue fell 22% last quarter. The Register suggested rising hardware prices are leading buyers to stretch upgrade cycles. These changes give IT teams something to test before replacing existing 8 GB machines.
The fixes arrive in Windows 11 26H2, build 26300.9818 or later.
Sources
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