Former Microsoft engineer Dave Plummer has suggested improvements for the Windows operating system, focusing on power users. Plummer proposes a 'hardcore mode' to streamline the OS, eliminating unnecessary prompts and better respecting experienced users' preferences.
Suggestions for Enhanced User Control
Plummer, who worked on Windows during the NT era, argues for a deterministic and terse mode designed for experienced users. This mode would eliminate superfluous features, avoid unsolicited web searches, and centralize settings to simplify control. He emphasizes transparency, advocating for detailed logs of all diagnostic data sent by the system.
- Plummer proposes a 'hardcore mode' for streamlined OS settings.
- He calls for centralized control to avoid scattered settings.
- Telemetry should be logged with clear, plain-English explanations.
Improvement of Updates and User Interface
The retired engineer suggests a social contract for updates, promoting clarity and minimizing unexpected reboots. He points out the challenge of Microsoft's extensive data collection and advertising within the OS, specifically highlighting persistent Edge suggestions and sponsored apps.
Despite these criticisms, Plummer praises several Windows components for their robustness and performance. These include the kernel, storage stack, Windows Subsystem for Linux, and the new Terminal app. He emphasizes that Windows loses its focus when it adds features at the user's expense.
