Microsoft is working on a special performance boost feature for Windows 11 that is designed to increase the responsiveness of the OS when initiating certain common tasks. According to sources familiar with these plans, this new performance boost feature is called the “Low Latency Profile” and will ramp up the CPU frequency in short bursts when opening apps, system flyouts, and context menus.

I’m told that this new Low Latency Profile feature is already in testing in the Windows Insider Program, and sources say the feature boosts the CPU to max frequency for between 1 and 3 seconds whenever the user attempts a high-priority task such as opening an app or system flyout like the Start menu.

When enabled, the boost can reportedly result in up to 40% faster app launch times for in-box apps like Edge and Outlook, and up to 70% faster launch times for interfaces like the Start menu and context menus. The feature is also said to positively impact the launch speed of most common third-party apps, too. With this performance boost enabled, the OS is much snappier.

This new feature is part of Microsoft's Windows K2 effort, where the company has committed to improving the overall performance and responsiveness of Windows 11. One way it's going about that is boosting CPU performance in short bursts for common tasks, as well as optimizing legacy code and migrating more areas of the OS to WinUI 3.

It’s unclear if the Low Latency Profile feature will be something that the user is able to toggle on or off. At current, it’s an automated feature that triggers in the background when necessary, and is invisible to the user. Sources say impact on battery life and thermals are minimal as the CPU boost itself is very short in duration.

With that said, sources are clear that this feature is still in early testing and is likely to change before official announcement or unveiling. Tweaks are still being made to the duration and frequency of the boost.

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Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central and has been with the site since 2016. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows, Surface, and hardware. He's also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch on Twitter and Threads