Microsoft optimizes Windows 11 for 8GB RAM amid high memory usage

Microsoft is working to optimize Windows 11 for computers with 8GB of RAM, a move prompted by rising memory prices and increased competition from low-cost hardware like Apple's MacBook Neo. The company has committed to implementing memory optimizations by the end of 2026, which includes transitioning more components to the native WinUI 3 framework to reduce reliance on memory-intensive WebView2 and Chromium-based processes.

Despite these promises, current tests reveal significant inefficiencies in built-in applications. The Windows 11 Weather app, which functions as an MSN-based web app via WebView2, has been shown to consume between 1GB and 1.6GB of RAM. For users with 8GB of RAM, this single application can occupy nearly 20% of available memory. In comparison, macOS's native weather application reportedly uses significantly less resources, often under 250MB.

In addition to resource management, Microsoft is also addressing system speed and user interface clutter. Improvements include faster File Explorer performance, optimized search functions, and reduced integration of Copilot and advertisements in certain areas. Separately, Microsoft has urged users of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 to upgrade to Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 before support deadlines in 2027.