Microsoft is boosting the launch time of key Windows apps and features – here’s how

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ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Low Latency Profile aims to help Windows apps launch faster.
• The feature works by spiking the CPU speed.
• Early testing shows improvement.

Ever find that opening an app, triggering a menu, or running other tasks in Windows doesn’t feel as fast or as snappy as it should? You’re not alone. Microsoft is currently testing a new technology in Windows 11 designed to provide some oomph to many of the actions you perform in the OS.

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Currently available in the latest Windows 11 Insider builds, the new Low Latency Profile is an attempt to enhance Windows by increasing the speed and responsiveness of key tools, apps, and features, Windows Central reported on Thursday. Citing sources familiar with these plans, reporter Zac Bowden said that this can boost the launch times for tools like the Start menu and File Explorer, apps like Edge and Outlook, and features like context menus and system flyouts.

In its testing, Windows Central found that Edge and Outlook launched up to 40% faster, while the Start menu and context menus kicked off 70% faster. Low Latency Profile is also supposed to provide speed boosts to most common third-party programs, making Windows overall feel snappier.

How does it work?

Low Latency Profile works by ramping up the CPU frequency in short bursts when you launch certain apps and menus. Normally, the CPU gradually increases speed when you click buttons, open menus, or perform other actions in Windows. But with Low Latency Profile enabled, the CPU spikes its speed for anywhere from one to three seconds, like pushing down hard on the gas pedal to more quickly increase the speed of your car.

At this point in the latest Windows 11 insider build, there’s no on/off switch to enable or disable Low Latency Profile. Rather, this is an automated feature that kicks off in the background when it’s needed. It then runs without any knowledge or awareness by the user. The sources also told Windows Central that any impact on battery life or heat is minimal because the CPU boost is so short.

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On the plus side, any technology that can speed up key activities and tasks in Windows seems like a step in the right direction. On the minus side, Low Latency Profile has triggered complaints from several users responding to a post on X from Windows Central. Some argue that this type of technology should have been standard in Windows 11 and not a special mode that needs to be implemented. Others contend that hiking the CPU speed isn’t the ideal way to improve the overall responsiveness of Windows.

Microsoft has been facing a lot of criticism over the perceived faults and flaws in Windows 11, including its obsession with adding AI to everything. In response, the company has promised big changes in store for Windows to address its key deficiencies. Low Latency Profile is just one of many that could start to alter the perception of Windows as slow and bloated. Now it’s up to Microsoft to deliver the goods.