Windows 8: My list of improvements

By Jose_49
in The Fast Ring (Insider Previews)

 Share

Recommended Posts

Grand Master

Jose_49

Posted
Posted

Hello Neowin community! I needed to write this out so I could feel free from it. These are my set of improvements that I believe that Windows 8 needs to have.

First of all, before any of you think that the first improvement is to disable Metro, you are wrong. Metro has been a start, but I feel it needs to be polished further.

  1. Allow multiple dragging in Start Screen. They added multiple selections (Thanks God), but need to have the ability to multiple drag objects at the same time.
  2. Have an option to extend the Start Screen through all the screens (When having 2+ of them).
  3. Have a ?metro-ized? Windows Explorer. (Like Internet Explorer with its 2 versions)
  4. When clicking on the network icon or something else, it triggers a humongous vertical rectangle; make it so it doesn?t take part of the taskbar (when positioned horizontally).
  5. Jump Menu in Start Screen. One of the biggest features of Win 7 Start Menu was the ability of a jump list which was great for launching recent files. This could be implemented like this:
    • Right click on an icon and on the upper screen or in the bar that comes from below, make a list appear displaying the most recent or pinned items.

[*]Add an optional shortcut to shutdown/restart/hibernate/sleep faster (Could be at the user?s tile).

[*]Have a folder or make folders with an animated effect of contracting and expanding its content (fading or scrolling effect). contents. This is to make the Start Screen more organized. I wouldn?t like to meet it when it reaches to 100+ programs (Zoom will not help)

[*]Have more than 2 metro apps running at the screen. I believe that having 2 at a time (max) is not enough. There are many of them that can be split in fewer dimensions.

[*]Have a keyboard combination or a mouse gesture which allows resizing the Metro Apps to your own like + an option of Tile Vertically, Horizontally or Stacked (Within the Metro Ecosystem).

[*]Option to have multiple background images so it can fit the proportions (or make a still one with a background, much like implementing the Desktop?s wallpaper configuration to it) of the screen .

[*]Allow the Start Screen to pin items wherever you want, as Desktop Style. What I mean is to allow putting an item in a position you want without the other moving to another column. (I was ****ed off with the CP and DP when I tried organizing the items the way I liked)

[*]Add the RGB combination of colors to the Start Screen.

[*]Make dark window-colors readable when Aero Basic is enabled. Try putting it black, you won?t be able to read the current Window at all.

[*]All-Search (Independent). It?s a very welcomed feature the distribution of search within a specified category (Files, Settings and Programs), but I feel that they need to bring back the unsorted search like Windows Vista/7; you could press start and search anything and the first thing that pops up would generally match what you were looking for. (This could be triggered through a WinKey combination)

[*]Make a mini-start screen available. There are many people which are infuriated with Metro for taking away their focus on what they were originally doing.

[*]Dramatically improve the Metro Versions of Video and Music Players: Make it more Zune.

[*]Make the start button an option. Could be disabled by default, but I feel uncomfortable when I need to go to the edge of the screen to trigger the Start Screen (Although I believe I?ll get used to it in time).

[*]Make Kinect gestures available to the Metro interface. It?s perfectly usable with Kinect, why not implement it by default?

[*]Add the ability to multiple select the files instantaneously with the mouse. This is the same as selecting multiple files when pressing the left button of the mouse (without letting go of it) and going all over the files. Shift combination should also be implemented.

Well, there they are. I haven't come up with anything else to improve Win8 experience, so what do you guys think?

Link to comment
https://www.neowin.net/forum/topic/1062668-windows-8-my-list-of-improvements/
Share on other sites
Grand Master

Calum Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

Microsoft won't listen to you (or anybody). Period.

I'm always interested in seeing how others believe a product can be improved, if it's a product that I'm interested in (like Windows 8 is). Microsoft do listen to feedback from many people sometimes, but even if you don't believe they will, there's no harm in publishing a list of what you'd like to see, either just in case anyone from Microsoft sees it or just to start a discussion :)

  • Muhammad Farrukh
  • Like 1
Grand Master

Dot Matrix

Posted
Posted

My list is simpler.

1. Give us option to disable Metro or choose whether to install it or not during Setup.

2. If i get option to disable Metro i don't give a f. about what you gonna do with it for those who wants to use it.

:)

In that case, why buy into Windows 8? Sounds to me like you'd be wasting money just to re-buy Windows 7. Windows 8 IS Metro, whether you want it or not. Take Metro (everything) away, and all you're left with is a new Explorer layout.

Guest glyfz

Posted
Posted

In that case, why buy into Windows 8? Sounds to me like you'd be wasting money just to re-buy Windows 7. Windows 8 IS Metro, whether you want it or not. Take Metro (everything) away, and all you're left with is a new Explorer layout.

Not true, there's more to Windows 8 than Metro.

Grand Master

simplezz

Posted
Posted

In that case, why buy into Windows 8? Sounds to me like you'd be wasting money just to re-buy Windows 7.

If it's a new PC, there isn't much choice, unless the OEM's offer to install Win7 instead (unlikely).

Windows 8 IS Metro, whether you want it or not. Take Metro (everything) away, and all you're left with is a new Explorer layout.

The desktop could be metro styled without forcing the start screen/tile interface down everybody's throats.

Rising Star

Sekyal

Posted
Posted

Interesting list.

15.One is now available from a 3rd party and I'm sure that's how it will stay, MS won't veer from the new Start Screen

16. As noted in the CP these are previews, I'm sure they'll get more features, although hard to say how much more will be added.

17. Why are you moving the mouse all the way round for the "start button" when the WinKey is so much easier to hit?

Grand Master

jakem1

Posted
Posted

My list is simpler.

1. Give us option to disable Metro or choose whether to install it or not during Setup.

2. If i get option to disable Metro i don't give a f. about what you gonna do with it for those who wants to use it.

:)

It's not going to happen so you might as well stop constantly moaning about it. You need to get with the times.

Grand Master

Kirkburn

Posted
Posted

Did people have to 'get with the times' when Vista was released? Windows Me? Microsoft Bob?

Yes, yes and no. Not immediately, but likely eventually. For example, Vista and Me both introduced elements of Windows almost everyone happily takes for granted now (e.g. overhauled UI, and system restore, respectively). That being said, I am not endorsing the Win8 changes, as I have yet to experience them first hand.
Grand Master

Stoffel

Posted
Posted

I really like your list and I hope MS does pick some of your ideas, specially the first 6 items on your list.

I think 7 and 8 are just not possible at the moment.

They try to have an app model that works both on Tablets and PC's.

For those tablets it would be very memory and battery consuming if they can have more then 2 apps open at a time.

That's also the reason they have to be full screen, that way they can go in a suspended mode as soon as it disappears from the screen.

If you can resize them they will never go in suspended mode, because they just keep occupying the screen

It would be nice if MS would adjust that problem, but we all have to realize that Win8 is basically a 1.0 version of a new app platform.

Maybe by Win9 they adjust the app model that you can do these things if you are on a PC or laptop.

Further down the list you got a couple of other good ones.

About the apps, we all know they are still in pre BETA stage so we can hope that they will be updated over time, hopefully we see regular updates before it goes into RC

I like that you actually took the time to think about how to make it better, instead of just saying it doesn't work like Win 7 so it s*cks

Nice one

Grand Master

PGHammer

Posted
Posted

Microsoft's internals.

No user wants their beloved OS to become like Windows 8.

Speak for yourself.

I have absolutely zero issues with the Consumer Preview, which is now my main OS (and on a desktop).

Just because some of you will fight change with all the fervor of the supporters of certain GOP presidential candidates, do NOT lump all users of Windows in that crowd, thank you.

Rookie

Tuanese

Posted
Posted

Speak for yourself.

I have absolutely zero issues with the Consumer Preview, which is now my main OS (and on a desktop).

Just because some of you will fight change with all the fervor of the supporters of certain GOP presidential candidates, do NOT lump all users of Windows in that crowd, thank you.

Time will tell, isn't it.

We'll see how Windows 8 sells. :)

Grand Master

Dot Matrix

Posted
Posted

Time will tell, isn't it.

We'll see how Windows 8 sells. :)

Even if Windows 8 sells poorly, Metro isn't going away. It'll be refined and sharpened for Windows 9. If Apple wants to believe they are in a "Post-PC" world, I think Microsoft wants them to eat their own words, which means drastic changes for Windows yet to come.

Grand Master

MorganX

Posted
Posted

  • All-Search (Independent). It?s a very welcomed feature the distribution of search within a specified category (Files, Settings and Programs), but I feel that they need to bring back the unsorted search like Windows Vista/7; you could press start and search anything and the first thing that pops up would generally match what you were looking for. (This could be triggered through a WinKey combination)

I believe what you're asking for is unified search and I wanted this to. And it is there. Don't use a search hotkey, when the start screen is up, just start typing what you're looking for. It will search everything and display the results. Whether or not what you're looking for will be the first result can't be guaranteed though.

Even if Windows 8 sells poorly, Metro isn't going away. It'll be refined and sharpened for Windows 9. If Apple wants to believe they are in a "Post-PC" world, I think Microsoft wants them to eat their own words, which means drastic changes for Windows yet to come.

I think Microsoft agrees with Apple and is trying to catch up by shoehorning a tablet UI onto a very productive and loved desktop UI. You know Microsoft can't take down iPad in a fair fight, tablet vs. tablet. So they will leverage their desktop dominance, I'm not sure they have a choice.

Grand Master

Dot Matrix

Posted
Posted

I think Microsoft agrees with Apple and is trying to catch up by shoehorning a tablet UI onto a very productive and loved desktop UI. You know Microsoft can't take down iPad in a fair fight, tablet vs. tablet. So they will leverage their desktop dominance, I'm not sure they have a choice.

If you think about it, it makes sense. Apple is tip-toeing around with the iPad, and ignoring many usability features Windows tablets have had for years.

This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.

  • Posts

    • Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5

      By Copernic · Posted

      Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 by Razvan Serea Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) is a utility for completely removing AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL graphics drivers and related packages from your system, attempting to eliminate all leftovers (including registry entries, folders and files, driver store). Though AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL drivers can usually be removed via the Windows Control Panel, this uninstaller tool was created for situations where standard uninstall fails, or when you need to fully remove NVIDIA or ATI graphics card drivers. After using this driver cleaner, your system will behave as though it’s the first time you’re installing a new driver—similar to a fresh Windows installation. As with all such tools, we recommend creating a restore point beforehand, allowing you to undo changes if issues arise. If you're having trouble installing an older or newer driver, try it—there are reports that it resolves such problems. Recommended usage: The tool can be used in Normal mode but for absolute stability when using DDU, Safemode is always the best. Make a backup or a system restore (but it should normally be pretty safe). It is best to exclude the DDU folder completely from any security software to avoid issues. You do NOT need to uninstall the driver prior using DDU. Requirements: .NET Framework 4.8 Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11 (32-bit or 64-bit) Note: Using on Insider Preview builds is at your own risk. Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 changelog: Added 'Reset to recommended' button for the Options. General fixes and improvements. Download: Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 | 1.7 MB (Freeware) Download: DDU Portable | 1.2 MB Links: Display Driver Uninstaller Home Page | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview

      By Copernic · Posted

      WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview by Razvan Serea WACUP (WinAmp Community Update Project) is a modern, enhanced version of the classic Winamp music player, designed for better stability, performance, and compatibility. Built for Windows, WACUP retains the familiar Winamp interface while adding 64-bit support, bug fixes, and new features like improved audio format support, customizable skins, and optimized playlist management. Unlike bloated alternatives, WACUP focuses on lightweight performance and regular updates, making it the best choice for fans of the classic Winamp experience. Basically, if you miss the good old days of Winamp and want a modern upgrade that doesn’t mess things up, WACUP is for you! WACUP key features: Classic Winamp Feel – Keeps the familiar interface and functionality. Bug Fixes & Stability – Fixes old Winamp issues and improves performance. 64-Bit Support – Works better on modern systems. More Formats & Plugins – Supports additional audio formats and third-party plugins. Customizable UI – Skins and tweaks for a personalized look. Better Library Management – Improved playlists, media organization, and search. No Bloat – Focuses on performance without unnecessary extras. Regular Updates – Community-driven development with new features and fixes. WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview changelog: Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when doing some of the drag + drop actions within the media library window Fixed a loading crash seen related to a problem with some of the artwork cache image files being restored which should now be better handled allowing for the bad image to be removed without it failing Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when the internal metadata cache clearing is triggered which could block the main ui thread for too long with this now being moved to a background thread Fixed some performance issues with some of the methods related to determining artwork support which mainly affected the local library import / refresh (this is still slower for some compared to other players because there's more data & artwork aspects being checked for which means doing more processing on a single file despite the best of attempts to reduce duplicate / heavy processing where possible) Fixed a crash with the JTFE based missing files hotkey which no one seems to have used for an age for this to appear (maybe it's time to seriously consider stripping out features that aren't being used) Fixed how some of the file types which use extra information to reference their sub-songs is handled which was preventing some from being correctly resolved back to their base file (noticed fixing above) Fixed an issue with the handling of files with underscores in their filepath which wasn't being correctly handled causing some of the filename to be lost when shown as the title if title reading is delayed Fixed a few things that might be behind NotSoDirect not being stable for some setups though am still not certain that the changes done for this are going to fully resolve the problem from the crash reports Fixed the OS toast handling when there's no prior shortcut in the OS start menu to now create the shortcut (needed to allow the yes/no buttons for the new build / post-release toast) to be done as a hidden one so it's less likely to cause annoyance for those not wanting to see it whilst still allowing this less than ideal OS api implementation requirement to be met to avoid toasts without the needed buttons Fixed a regression when moving from taglib1 to taglib2 which broke some of the handling in place to allow for external programs to still access files when wacup has a held open cached instance of the file Everything else Updated cppwinrt (gen_win10shell.dll) to 3.0.260520.1 (26 May 2026) Updated libcurl (libcurl.dll) to 8.2.1 (24 Jun 2026) Updated Monkey's Audio (in_ape.dll) to 13.15 (28 Jun 2026) Updated mpg123 (mpg123.dll) to 1.33.6 (6 Jun 2026) Updated OpenSSL (libcurl.dll) to 3.5.7 (9 Jun 2026) Updated pugixml to 1.16 (16 Jun 2026) Updated taglib (tag2.dll) to 2.3.0 (11 May 2026) Updated vgmstream (in_vgmstream.dll) to the latest Git commit from 28 Jun 2026 Download: WACUP 64-bit | 9.6 MB (Freeware) Download: WACUP 32-bit View: WACUP Website | Screenshots Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • Dbrand thought they could get away with this Steam Machine case, Valve disagreed

      By Doli · Posted

      "over a thousand engineering hours" and started selling it but could not take a couple of minuets to send an AI email to ask permission. What an expensive lesson.
    • Can't access the forum on mobile

      By WITHOUT-ME · Posted

      just tested it yesterday, a simple page with autoloading ADS takes 60mb....just 1 page for 60 megabytes.   poor people with a limited internet never will visit neolose
    • Tor Browser 15.0.17

      By Copernic · Posted

      Tor Browser 15.0.17 by Razvan Serea Protect your privacy. Defend yourself against network surveillance and traffic analysis. Tor is a network of virtual tunnels that allows people and groups to improve their privacy and security on the Internet. The Tor software protects you by bouncing your communications around a distributed network of relays run by volunteers all around the world: it prevents somebody from watching your Internet connection and learning what sites you visit, it prevents the sites you visit from learning your physical location, and it lets you access sites which are blocked. The Tor Browser Bundle lets you use Tor on Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux without needing to install any software. It can run off a USB flash drive, comes with a pre-configured web browser to protect your anonymity, and is self-contained. Tor Browser 15.0.17 changelog: All Platforms Updated Tor to 0.4.9.11 Updated NoScript to 13.6.25.1984 Build System / All Platforms Bug tor-browser-build#41821: Update gpg subkeys for boklm Bug tor-browser-build#41827: Update morgan's keychain with renewed key Download: Tor Browser (64-bit) | Tor Browser (32-bit) | 109.0 MB (Open Source) View: Tor Browser Website | Other Operating Systems Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware

  • Recent Achievements

    • Reacting Well
      Wakeen1966 earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Rookie
      Almohandis went up a rank
      Rookie
    • Apprentice
      jahara21 went up a rank
      Apprentice
    • Reacting Well
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Week One Done
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Week One Done

  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      530
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      266
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      148
    4. 4
      Steven P.
      99
    5. 5
      macoman
      55
    Show More

  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!