Introduction

In April 2025, Microsoft released Windows 10 update KB5055518, which introduced several changes aimed at enhancing system performance and user experience. Among these changes, the removal of the seconds display from the Calendar flyout has garnered significant attention and sparked discussions within the user community.

Background: The Calendar Flyout Redesign

Traditionally, Windows 10's Calendar flyout provided users with a detailed clock that included hours, minutes, and seconds. This feature was particularly appreciated by users requiring precise timekeeping. However, with the deployment of KB5055518, the seconds display was eliminated from the Calendar flyout, aligning Windows 10's interface more closely with that of Windows 11, which also omits seconds in its default taskbar clock display.

Technical Rationale Behind the Change

The decision to remove the seconds display is rooted in performance optimization. Displaying seconds necessitates the system to update the clock every second, which can prevent the CPU from entering low-power states, thereby increasing power consumption. By eliminating the seconds display, Microsoft aims to reduce the frequency of these updates, potentially enhancing battery life and overall system efficiency. This approach mirrors similar decisions in Windows 11, where the seconds display was initially omitted for comparable reasons.

User Impact and Reactions

The removal of the seconds display has elicited mixed reactions from the Windows 10 user base. While casual users may find this change inconsequential, power users and professionals who rely on precise time measurements for tasks such as debugging, synchronization, or financial transactions have expressed concerns. The absence of seconds in the Calendar flyout means these users must seek alternative methods to access precise time information.

Workarounds and Alternatives

For users who require the seconds display, several alternatives are available:

  • Registry Modification: Advanced users can edit the Windows Registry to enable seconds in the taskbar clock. This involves creating or modifying the INLINECODE0 DWORD value in the registry path INLINECODE1 and setting it to INLINECODE2 . Caution is advised when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can affect system stability.
  • Third-Party Applications: Tools like ElevenClock offer customizable clock displays, including the option to show seconds. These applications provide a user-friendly interface for those uncomfortable with registry edits.

Windows 11's Approach to Seconds Display

Interestingly, while Windows 10 is moving away from displaying seconds by default, Windows 11 has reintroduced this feature in recent updates. Users can enable seconds in the taskbar clock through the Settings app by navigating to INLINECODE3 and toggling the INLINECODE4 option. However, Microsoft warns that enabling this feature may lead to increased power consumption.

Conclusion

The removal of the seconds display in Windows 10's Calendar flyout reflects Microsoft's ongoing efforts to optimize system performance and energy efficiency. While this change may benefit overall system health, it poses challenges for users who depend on precise timekeeping. Fortunately, workarounds and third-party solutions are available to accommodate these needs. As Microsoft continues to evolve its operating systems, balancing performance enhancements with user preferences remains a critical consideration.