Windows 11's latest Insider build further cements the requirement of a Microsoft account for Home and Pro edition users during initial setup. While previous workarounds allowed local account creation, this update eliminates those loopholes, forcing users to sign in with a Microsoft account before accessing the desktop. Microsoft claims this provides a consistent experience across Windows 11 features and devices. However, this change limits user choice and potentially raises privacy concerns for those preferring local accounts. Pro users setting up Windows 11 on their workplace network will be exempt from this requirement, allowing them to directly join Azure Active Directory or Active Directory.
Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (Beta Channel) brings several fixes and improvements. Key changes include resolving an explorer.exe crash, improving Narrator performance with large amounts of text, fixing an issue affecting the reliability of Start menu badges, and addressing problems with app defaults and searchindexer.exe crashes. This build also removes the previously available live captions settings within Quick Settings, directing users to the full settings page instead. While this build doesn't introduce new features, it focuses on stability and bug fixes for a smoother user experience.
Hacker News users discuss the new features in the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, mostly focusing on practical improvements rather than revolutionary changes. Several commenters express appreciation for the return of ungrouped taskbar icons, viewing it as a positive step back from a less popular design choice. Some discuss the new screen recording feature in Snipping Tool, noting its basic functionality and comparing it to existing third-party options. Others mention the addition of a native VPN status indicator in the system tray, considering it a welcome, if overdue, feature. A few comments also touch on more technical aspects, such as the performance improvements and changes to Windows Ink. Overall, the sentiment seems to be one of cautious optimism, with users appreciating the iterative improvements but remaining somewhat reserved about the overall direction of Windows 11.
Summary of Comments ( 33 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43516482
Hacker News users largely expressed frustration and cynicism towards Microsoft's increased push for mandatory account sign-ins in Windows 11. Several commenters saw this as a continuation of Microsoft's trend of prioritizing advertising revenue and data collection over user experience and privacy. Some discussed workarounds, like using local accounts during initial setup and disabling connected services later, while others lamented the gradual erosion of local account functionality. A few pointed out the irony of Microsoft's stance on user choice given their past criticisms of similar practices by other tech companies. Several commenters suggested that this move further solidified Linux as a preferable alternative for privacy-conscious users.
The Hacker News post titled "New Windows 11 build makes mandatory Microsoft sign-in even more mandatory" has generated a significant number of comments discussing the implications of Microsoft's increasing push for account integration in its operating system.
Several commenters express frustration and concern over the perceived loss of control and privacy. They argue that forcing users to sign in with a Microsoft account for basic functions like setting up a local user account is an overreach and limits user autonomy. Some even suggest that this move is a tactic to gather more user data.
A common point of contention is the inconvenience this change poses for users who prefer local accounts, especially those with multiple devices or who manage devices for others. The additional steps required to bypass the Microsoft account login are seen as unnecessary and time-consuming.
Some users discuss potential workarounds, such as using a dummy account or disconnecting from the internet during setup. However, there is concern that these workarounds might be patched in future updates. The discussion also touches on the possibility of using enterprise versions of Windows or alternative operating systems like Linux as a way to avoid this forced integration.
A few commenters draw parallels to similar practices employed by other tech companies, suggesting a broader trend towards tighter control and data collection within the tech industry. Some express resignation, viewing this as an inevitable progression in the evolution of software.
There's a degree of speculation about Microsoft's motivations behind this change. While data collection is frequently cited, others suggest it could be related to streamlining software distribution, improving security, or pushing users towards Microsoft's cloud services.
Finally, some comments offer a more nuanced perspective, acknowledging potential benefits of account integration while still criticizing the mandatory nature of the implementation. They suggest that offering a seamless experience for users who choose a Microsoft account is acceptable, but forcing it on everyone is a step too far. The overall sentiment appears to be overwhelmingly negative, with many users expressing disappointment and apprehension about the future direction of Windows.