What did Windows Insiders tell Microsoft in Berlin, Cologne, and Prague?

Smaller rooms, sharper feedback

Marcus Ash leads design and research for Windows and Devices. He writes a monthly column called Beyond the Build. The September edition covers a meetup tour that stopped in Berlin, Cologne, and Prague earlier this month.

The events were smaller by design. That choice gave the team more time for direct conversations. Attendees did not just listen to presentations. They asked questions and gave feedback face to face.

Many Insiders said they can feel improvements in Experimental builds. System responsiveness was the specific area they named. The feedback came with a clear request. Keep rolling these improvements out broadly so friends and family can experience them too.

From experimental builds to your taskbar

Some of that work is already underway. Start and taskbar improvements have started rolling out broadly. More changes are expected as fall approaches.

Insiders also asked for new ways to see work earlier. They want early design concepts and ideas shared before code lands in Experimental builds. The team recently held a feedback session on File Explorer context menus. That design recently shipped to Experimental builds.

More lightweight sharing sessions are planned. The goal is to hear feedback before improvements make their way into Experimental builds.

The feedback loop that wasn't visible

A different problem surfaced across all three cities. Insiders find it difficult to understand what happens with the feedback they submit. They want similar feedback grouped together. They want a clearer view of what Microsoft is considering and actively working on.

The team is increasing investment in this area. More details are promised soon.

Community strength showed up as a consistent theme. Attendees reconnected in person. They met people they had previously known only online. They shared tips with one another.

Brooklyn next month

A Windows Community Connection event is scheduled for October 15 in Brooklyn, NYC. Registration is open at aka.ms/windowsfans. Space is limited.

The event will include Microsoft leaders and the Windows Insider team. Attendees can share thoughts on the program and get a closer look at what's ahead for Windows.

The meetup tour continues.