Microsoft has made several changes over the years to address the usual shorter battery life of Windows laptops when compared to MacBooks. Now, a new trick to improve the battery life of your laptop is being tested by Microsoft.
The new feature is currently in testing for Windows 11 devices, and it's called Adaptive Battery Saver Mode. It's not like the usual Energy Saver mode, which only activates once the battery drops below a specific level.
Adaptive Mode, as you can guess by the name, automatically adjusts to improve battery life. It's based on the device's workload.
The feature is an opt-in feature, so it's not on by default, and on top of that, it works without changing the display brightness, which is pretty cool, if I may add.
Currently, the regular Battery Saver mode lowers the screen brightness by 30%. It also disables transparency effects, stops programs that may be running in the background, and even pauses certain data sync tasks, including OneDrive, OneNote, and Phone Link.
Currently, MacBooks usually perform better in battery life than Windows 11 laptops. | Image Credit - Apple
Basically, when this feature is on, you notice a sudden change in how your laptop behaves. However, Adaptive Battery Saver Mode is different.
Firstly, it doesn't stop background tasks or change the screen brightness. So, you may not even know that this Battery Saver mode is activated on your Windows laptop.
Would you use Adaptive Battery Saver Mode if it worked silently in the background?
Yes, sounds perfect
50%
Maybe, depends on how well it works
40%
No, I prefer full control over settings
0%
I don't use Windows laptops
10%
Currently, the feature is under testing in Windows 11's Canary Channel (build number 27898). If you want to test this feature, you should opt into this channel.
Of course, when the testing is completed, all the bugs are ironed out and Microsoft finds the performance of the feature satisfactory, it should roll out to devices running Windows 11. This may also include portable consoles alongside laptops and even tablets (running Windows 11).
I personally think this is a great step in the right direction. Battery life has always been one of the weak spots for Windows laptops, so it's nice to see Microsoft trying something smarter instead of just dimming the screen or cutting off apps.
I like that Adaptive Battery Saver Mode works quietly in the background and adjusts based on how you're using your device, without getting in the way. If it really helps extend battery life without making things look or feel slower, I'd definitely give it a try when it's fully released.
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Izzy, a tech enthusiast and a key part of the PhoneArena team, specializes in delivering the latest mobile tech news and finding the best tech deals. Her interests extend to cybersecurity, phone design innovations, and camera capabilities. Outside her professional life, Izzy, a literature master's degree holder, enjoys reading, painting, and learning languages. She's also a personal growth advocate, believing in the power of experience and gratitude. Whether it's walking her Chihuahua or singing her heart out, Izzy embraces life with passion and curiosity.
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