April 20, 2026, 11:41 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Microsoft is working to bring a well-known feature from MacBooks more prominently into the Windows world. The focus is on what’s called haptic feedback in touchpads. Instead of a mechanical click, small motors simulate the sensation. On many Windows laptops, this click is still produced by moving parts.
In contrast, Apple devices keep the surface static while a motor creates the click sensation. Additionally, the intensity of this feedback can be adjusted on MacBooks. Microsoft has supported this technology for some time, but many manufacturers have yet to adopt it. This is set to change. The company is expanding support in Windows 11 and aims to encourage device manufacturers to incorporate this technology more frequently.
New Applications for Haptic Feedback
In a recent preview version of Windows 11, Microsoft is testing several new scenarios for haptic feedback. Users can perceive a slight vibration when performing certain actions. According to the online magazine “WindowsLatest,” four cases have been documented so far:
- Aligning objects in PowerPoint
- Aligning windows
- Resizing windows
- Hovering over the “Close” button with the mouse
To use these functions, compatible input devices are required. This likely refers to laptops equipped with the appropriate touchpads.
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Testing Phase Underway in Insider Program
Currently, Microsoft is gradually distributing the new features to participants of the Windows Insider Program. They are available starting with Preview Build 26300.8155 in the developer channel. This channel is soon to be renamed and will be known as the “Experimental Channel.” The new name suggests that the tested features are still in an early development stage.
When the new features will be available to all users remains uncertain. It may take some time before Microsoft rolls out the function widely. Since the innovation is primarily aimed at notebooks, a release as part of the 26H1 update for Copilot+ devices is conceivable. However, whether development will be completed by then is not confirmed. Alternatively, the function might only appear with the later 26H2 update.
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Few Compatible Devices on the Market
Even with a release, the selection of supported devices remains limited for now. In the Windows world, there are currently only a few laptops with haptic feedback. A Microsoft manager stated that they aim to create incentives for manufacturers to integrate this technology more frequently.
Additionally, it is not ruled out that other types of devices may receive these functions in the future. The documentation only mentions “compatible devices,” without exclusively focusing on touchpads.