Microsoft Enhances Windows 11 Battery Icon with Color-Coded Status Indicators
Microsoft is rolling out a significant update to the Windows 11 battery icon, introducing color-coded versions to improve user awareness of battery status. This change aims to prevent common issues such as using a dead outlet, improper charging, or allowing the battery to drain excessively.
The traditional black battery icon is being replaced with three distinct colors. A green icon indicates that the computer is charging and in a good state. Yellow signifies that the battery has dropped below 20 percent and is in energy-saving mode, while red warns of a critically low battery, urging immediate charging.
These new icons will be prominently displayed in the taskbar’s system tray, quick settings flyout, and general Windows Settings. Microsoft has also announced plans to include these icons on the Lock screen in future builds.
In addition to the color changes, Microsoft has simplified the icon overlays to prevent obstruction of the progress bar. Users will also have the option to enable the display of battery charge percentage next to the icon through the Settings menu under Power & battery.
The update comes in response to high demand from Windows Insiders and customers for more informative battery status indicators. Microsoft believes that the color-coded icons and percentage display will make battery status more noticeable and actionable for users.
Currently, the new battery icons are available to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel. Microsoft plans to monitor feedback before rolling out the feature to a wider audience.
This update represents Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and system efficiency in Windows 11, with a focus on providing clearer visual cues for essential system information.