Windows Wrap: Microsoft Reads the Room During $440B Loss

“Positive steps deserve positive reinforcement” is a mantra I say often when discussing incremental growth. It’s a nice reminder to myself when coaching youth sports and also sound advice for working with anyone who is trying to make a significant change in their life.

It’s tempting to be disappointed when someone tries to be better but only takes a small step in the right direction. Obviously, there are times when swift and large steps are required. But change is often gradual, and good choices need to be rewarded to see more good choices down the line.

I’m hoping that’s what’s happening with Microsoft and its leadership. After weeks of negative feedback, Microsoft promised to improve Windows 11 and focus on “pain points” of the OS flagged by users.

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It’s a shame that Windows 11 is in a state of flux, because there’s some great hardware coming out these days. The Xbox Ally (currently on sale for $490) is a unique handheld that runs Windows 11.

Microsoft is also reviewing its integration of Copilot into apps such as Notepad and Paint, according to reports.

The tech giant’s plans came to light the same week Microsoft lost $440 billion in market value. The company had the second-largest single day stock decline ever. Its share price dropped 5.37% in one day and was down 14% in January as of midweek.

It’s worth pointing out that the stock market is a tricky thing. Gaming stocks stumbled after Google unveiled Genie 3 AI, which should serve as a reminder that the stock market is a weird and volatile place.

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Microsoft’s stock value dropping was more about AI overspending and investor concerns about Azure than anything to do with negative feedback about Windows 11. The stories just happened to develop in the same week.

The stock market is the weirdest most delusional bullshit man. https://t.co/LT2ZMk7Td1January 30, 2026

But somewhere between stock prices falling, Windows 11 having a disastrous January, and people complaining about AI, Microsoft listened.

Now we just have to see if that positive step leads to meaningful change.

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The best deal this week is on the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally. That unique gaming handheld is even tempting our Editor-in-Chief with its low price.

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