The day Windows died (thomasbandt.com)

Article summary

The author, a longtime Windows user, tried to set up a Windows 11 laptop for their son, but was disappointed by the pre-installed apps and features, such as TikTok and news feeds. They felt that these features were not suitable for a child and made the system feel more like a platform for consuming media than a tool for creating and learning. The author had not used Windows since version 8 and was shocked by the changes. They ultimately decided that Windows was no longer a suitable choice for their son.

Main themes

• Windows 11 criticism
• Bloatware and pre-installed apps
• User control and customization
• Linux as an alternative
• Microsoft's business model
• Consumer expectations and needs

What commenters say

• The author's experience with Windows 11 is not unique and many users have complained about the same issues.
• The pre-installed apps and features in Windows 11 are a form of bloatware that can be removed, but it's not a straightforward process.
• Some users defend Microsoft's decision to include these features, arguing that they are what consumers want and that the company is just trying to compete with phones for attention.
• Others argue that these features are anti-consumer and that users should have more control over what is installed on their systems.
• Linux is presented as a viable alternative to Windows for users who want more control and flexibility.
• The idea that Windows 11 is a step backwards in terms of configurability is a common criticism among users.
• Some users disagree with the author's assessment and think that the features in Windows 11 are not a big deal and can be easily disabled.
• The discussion highlights the tension between users who want a simple, streamlined experience and those who want more control and customization options.