New update in windows 11 introduces color-coded battery icons designed to help users quickly understand their device’s battery status, making it easier to stay on top of power levels.
In a blog post, Microsoft explained that the icons are intended to provide clear, at-a-glance information about the battery’s condition. “These icons have been designed to communicate the battery status of your PC with just a quick glance. Key changes include colored icons to indicate charging states, simplified overlays that don’t block the progress bar, and an option to turn on the battery percentage,” the company said.
The updated icons use four distinct colors to represent different battery conditions:
- Black: This indicates that the battery is in normal mode, meaning it is neither charging nor running low.
- Green: This shows that the device is currently charging.
- Yellow: This signals that the laptop is in power saver mode, which helps conserve battery life.
- Red: This indicates that the battery is critically low, urging users to plug in their device soon.
This update is currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel, with plans for a broader release in the near future. Unlike some of the recently announced AI features that are exclusive to PCs with the Copilot+ branding, this new color-coded battery feature will be available to all laptops running Windows 11.
In addition to the color-coded battery icons, Microsoft is also introducing an optional battery percentage indicator. When enabled, this feature will display the exact battery percentage next to the battery icon, providing users with even more detailed information about their power levels. The battery percentage indicator has been one of the most requested features by both Windows Insiders and regular users, making this a welcome addition.
While this update might not be a groundbreaking change, it adds a layer of convenience for Windows 11 users. It allows them to easily monitor their battery status without having to click through menus or settings, giving them quicker access to vital information about their device’s power levels. This simple visual enhancement will no doubt be appreciated by users who rely on their laptops throughout the day and need to manage their battery life efficiently.
Microsoft’s continuous effort to refine and improve the user experience with these small but helpful updates shows their commitment to enhancing the overall functionality of Windows 11. With more changes and features expected in future builds, it’s clear that the company is listening to feedback and making adjustments to meet user needs.
This new feature is expected to make a notable difference in daily usage, especially for those who are frequently on the go and need to keep a close eye on their battery. While not a dramatic shift, it certainly adds a more streamlined and intuitive way of monitoring battery health. For those who enjoy customizing their settings and ensuring everything is working optimally, this addition will be a welcome improvement.
The update is expected to be rolled out to a wider audience soon, allowing all Windows 11 users to take advantage of these practical changes to the battery indicator. For those interested in staying up-to-date with the latest changes, Microsoft will continue to push out new builds with even more improvements in the coming months.