Windows 11 users are still turning to third-party tools to bypass Microsoft’s push for all-encompassing AI — and “Winslop” is the most categorical example to date

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October 5, 2026 will mark six years since Windows 11 was released, but the operating system hasn’t gained as much popularity or been adopted by as many users as expected.

Even though Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, many people are still upset about it. This change leaves users with limited options and has led to a petition asking Microsoft to reconsider, as it’s expected to cause a large increase in electronic waste from discarded computers.

Even though the company didn’t seem to listen to requests for continued support, you can still keep your computer secure by joining Microsoft’s Extended Security Update (ESU) program. This lets you receive security updates for another year after the standard support ends. You can do this by connecting your computer settings to your Microsoft account or by paying a fee of $30, or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.

However, Microsoft reversed course, particularly for users in the European Economic Area. They can now access the Extended Security Update (ESU) program without having to meet the previously stated conditions, and at no cost.

Microsoft’s plan to end support for Windows 10 has been criticized as a way to intentionally make computers seem outdated, pushing millions of users to upgrade or replace working machines.

Many people have been hesitant to switch to Windows 11 for a few reasons. Initially, it was because of the specific hardware needed to run it, and some design issues with the operating system itself. More recently, concerns have grown about Microsoft focusing too much on adding artificial intelligence features.

As an analyst, I’ve been following Microsoft’s push to transform Windows into an AI-powered operating system. Last year, they announced plans to build in ‘agentic’ capabilities – essentially, features that would allow Windows to not just respond to commands, but proactively take control of your PC and even complete tasks on your behalf. However, the initial reaction from users was largely negative, and we saw quite a bit of pushback on the idea.

Microsoft is constantly finding new ways to include its Copilot AI in all its products, particularly Windows. You can find it built into almost every part of the operating system.

A recent report indicates that Microsoft’s Copilot could be integrated into Windows 11’s File Explorer. This possibility was found within a hidden button in the latest preview versions of Windows 11.

It’s currently unclear exactly how Copilot will work within File Explorer, but it could potentially help users understand and organize their files – including documents and photos – by analyzing their content.

Many users aren’t impressed with Microsoft’s approach to AI. Despite CEO Satya Nadella asking people to stop using negative terms like “slop” to describe it, the nickname has stuck, and some are now jokingly calling the company “Microslop.”

Apps from unofficial sources that ignore standard security checks can create problems for your device, so be careful when installing them.

Today’s issues call for new approaches, and Winslop is designed to help. Created by the developer of Flyoobe, this small app lets you easily disable the artificial intelligence features Microsoft has been adding to Windows 11 (according to Neowin).

What’s really neat about this app is that it doesn’t just get rid of unwanted AI software on your Windows 11 computer. It also lets you remove other built-in features you might not need, giving you more control over how your device works.

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2026-01-16 15:24