Microsoft improves Windows 11 battery life with smart power saving mode

A few weeks ago, we discovered references to a feature called 'adaptive energy saver' in some Windows 11 preview builds. Microsoft confirmed the information but said the feature wasn't working properly yet. Now, with the latest Canary build, this smart power saving mode is available for users to test on Windows 11 laptops and tablets .

Windows 11's current battery saver mode is pretty simple, based solely on real-time battery levels. Users can set it to automatically activate when the battery reaches a certain threshold (say, 20%). When enabled, it applies the following changes:

1. Dim the screen
2. Turn off visual effects
3. Limit background system and application activities
4. Some other optimizations to extend battery life

With adaptive power saving, Microsoft takes a different approach: the operating system automatically turns power saving mode on and off based on a variety of factors, such as:

1. Current power status (charging/not charging)
2. System Operation Load
3. Usage habits

Thanks to this, the battery saving mode can be activated even when the battery level is high (not just at 20-30%). In particular, the new feature does not dim the screen - an important factor for mobile devices.

In the release notes for build 27898 (released last week), Microsoft says this is an optional feature. Users have to enable it manually, while percentage battery saver mode remains the default. Note that Microsoft is disabling this feature experimentally for some Insiders without confirmation (it's part of the experimental settings program), but users can turn it off in Settings > System > Power & Battery .

Windows 11's new power-saving features come shortly after the operating system was criticized for being too resource-hungry, power-inefficient, and not being optimized for consoles.

Marvin Fry

Update 17 July 2025