Fact Check: Microsoft's new error screen shows restart progress percentage instead of a sad face.

Fact Check: Microsoft's New Error Screen Shows Restart Progress Percentage Instead of a Sad Face

What We Know

Microsoft has announced significant changes to its infamous "Blue Screen of Death" (BSOD), which has been a staple of Windows operating systems for nearly 40 years. The new error screen will feature a black background instead of blue and will no longer display a frowning face. Instead, it will show a percentage indicating the progress of the restart process (source-1, source-3). This change is part of Microsoft's broader efforts to enhance the user experience during unexpected restarts and improve the overall resiliency of the Windows operating system, particularly following incidents that affected millions of users (source-3).

Analysis

The claim that Microsoft's new error screen will show a restart progress percentage instead of a sad face is supported by multiple reliable sources. For instance, CBC News confirms that the new interface will replace the frowning emoticon with a progress percentage. Additionally, Tom's Hardware provides further details about the new screen's design and functionality, emphasizing that it will also include more information about the error, such as stop codes and fault system drivers.

The sources cited are credible and come from established technology news outlets and official announcements from Microsoft. The transition from the traditional BSOD to a more user-friendly interface reflects Microsoft's commitment to improving user experience, particularly in scenarios where system failures occur. The announcement has been widely covered, indicating a consensus among tech journalists about the changes being implemented.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that Microsoft's new error screen will show a restart progress percentage instead of a sad face is accurate. Multiple credible sources confirm that the traditional blue screen will be replaced with a black screen that provides users with a progress percentage during restarts, thereby enhancing the overall user experience during system errors.

Sources

1. Microsoft Officially Retires 'Blue Screen of Death' After 40 Years
2. Microsoft Windows to get rid of 'blue screen of death' and frowning face
3. Say goodbye to the infamous Windows 'blue screen of death'
4. Windows Blue screen of death axed after 40 years, but BSOD still remains