Microsoft's turned Windows into a cesspool, but it wants to do better

The Register / 5/4/2026

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Key Points

  • The article argues that Windows, under Microsoft, has become increasingly problematic and difficult for users and developers, contributing to widespread dissatisfaction.
  • It points to ongoing instability and confusion in the Windows ecosystem as a core reason many people perceive the platform as being in a “mess.”
  • It also highlights turbulence around GitHub and criticism surrounding Copilot, framing them as symptoms of broader issues at Microsoft.
  • The piece questions what is going wrong in Redmond and implies that Microsoft’s efforts to improve have not yet addressed the underlying drivers of frustration.

Microsoft's turned Windows into a cesspool, but it wants to do better

Windows is a mess, GitHub keeps wobbling, Copilot draws flak - what’s wrong at Redmond?

Sun 3 May 2026 // 23:00 UTC

kettle When it comes to making decisions that piss off your user base, no one knows how to do it like Microsoft. 

Relentless Copilot pushing, the second-chance out-of-box experience, a bunch of sloppy, buggy patches, and other bad decisions have plagued the Windows maker in recent months. CEO Satya Nadella and Windows boss Pavan Davuluri have promised to make good, but will they? 

This week's Kettle sees host Brandon Vigliarolo joined by US editor Avram Piltch and Microsoft reporter Richard Speed to talk about what's going wrong at Microsoft, and whether the company has lost the thread. 

You can listen to The Kettle here, as well as on Spotify and Apple Music. ®

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