Microsoft plans to bring Windows 11 closer to SteamOS with Project K2

It seems like Microsoft is slowly but surely starting to address some of the pain points of Windows 11. In the midst of strong competition from Linux and SteamOS, Microsoft has outlined a major plan of improvement for its operating system. While we saw a few useful changes here and there before, such as the removal of Copilot integration and the overhaul of the storage menu, it looks like more impactful improvements are on the horizon.

As reported by Windows Central, Microsoft has launched a project to address the "biggest complaints" people have about Windows 11 today. This project, known internally as Project K2, comprises several major changes expected to improve Windows 11's user experience and address its pain points.

The report reveals that Project K2 is based on three pillars: performance, craft, and reliability. Microsoft is expected to use user feedback and telemetry data to improve the user experience moving forward. Another major focus is on agility, which translates into fewer, smaller updates and fewer bugs overall. Microsoft is also reportedly working on revamping the File Explorer and using the File Pilot app as a reference point.

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One of the major reasons for Microsoft's sudden attention to Windows 11 is the launch of competing operating systems focused on gaming. We recently saw Windows lose a big chunk of its market share to Linux, and that is no small part thanks to Linux-based SteamOS, which powers the Steam Deck and upcoming Steam Machine.

According to the aforementioned report, Microsoft is apparently looking at Valve's SteamOS as "the benchmark" and working to bring its own OS closer to SteamOS in terms of optimization and performance. We recently saw Windows introduce a few gaming-focused features, such as an Xbox mode, so it is clear that Microsoft wants to regain that market segment. Sources claim that while a firm timeline isn't in place, Microsoft hopes to achieve its goal "within a year or two."

Microsoft has recently made some appreciable changes to improve Windows 11, including changes to the updates, storage system, and AI integration. They have also previously made promises regarding changes to Windows Search and native apps, which are still up in the air. Nevertheless, it is said that Windows K2 is an evolving project without a completion date and is an ongoing effort by Microsoft to make Windows 11 better for its users.