Microsoft is rolling out new updates for Windows 11, which include numerous improvements and new built-in features. As part of this update, Windows 11's Copilot has gained more options for controlling PCs, the Photos app has added the Generative Erase option, and there are changes to the Widgets system in Accessibility, improved Snap layouts, and more.
Although the updates for Windows 11 are starting today, Microsoft has stated that not all features will be immediately available. The new options for Copilot will be gradually rolled out starting in late March, enabling new skills such as requesting AI chatbots to enable battery-saving mode or activate accessibility features like Narrator or Magnifier. Copilot will also be able to display available Wi-Fi networks, storage space, and even empty the recycle bin.
The Photos app will also introduce more AI-driven features. The new Generative Erase feature will allow you to remove unwanted objects from photos by simply selecting and deleting them. This is similar to the magical AI-powered selective photo eraser found on Google and Samsung devices. Microsoft's video editor, Clipchamp, will also gain the ability to remove unwanted parts from videos.
Microsoft is also improving the Widgets and built-in Snap layouts features in Windows 11. Widgets have always been useful but have been affected by junk news from MSN. Now, you can finally disable the "Microsoft Start" feed, and the Windows Widgets board has achieved interoperability as part of Microsoft's commitment to the European Commission's Digital Markets Act. This means that, for example, Google can build a plugin for Widgets board to display content from Google News.
The Snap feature in Windows 11 allows you to easily adjust the size of app windows and has become smarter in this update. It will now remember the apps you frequently use with Snap and automatically suggest layouts.
If you have a Windows tablet with a stylus, the latest Windows 11 update also includes the ability to write directly in text boxes within the operating system. This includes support for Windows Ink in apps like Photos, Paint, and WhatsApp.
The built-in Projection feature in Windows 11 allows you to send content to nearby displays and has also been improved. Now, when you are multitasking, you will receive suggestions to use the Projection feature, and it has been enhanced to help find nearby displays and resolve connection issues.
If you are someone who shares Windows content to other devices or owns an Android phone, the latest Windows 11 update also includes improvements to make content sharing from devices easier. "Nearby Share" now has faster transfer speeds when sharing with others or devices on the same network, and you can also set a friendly name for your computer to make it easier for others to identify you.
The Phone Link system in Windows 11 will now include the ability to access recent photos or use your phone as a webcam for video conferencing. This feature is being tested starting today for Windows Insiders using devices running Android 9 or higher and version 1.24012* or higher of the Link to Windows app. To enable it, look for Bluetooth and Mobile Devices in the Settings menu, select Manage devices, and then enable your PC to access your Android phone.
Last but not least, Microsoft is making some accessibility improvements in Windows 11. The new Voice Shortcut feature allows you to create custom commands to automate tasks in Windows 11's voice access feature. It's like creating a macro for your voice, so you can automatically open URLs and perform multiple actions with a single voice command.
You will also have voice access on multiple monitors, including digital and grid overlays on secondary monitors. Microsoft has also improved its built-in Narrator feature in Windows 11, adding natural voices that are downloaded onto the device and used with the text-to-speech functionality.
Microsoft will begin rolling out this new Windows 11 update today, but it may take some time before it is available on your own device. If you want to get it immediately, you need to enable the "Get the latest updates when available" option in Windows Update and then check for updates.
In the EU, Windows is also undergoing other significant changes to comply with the Digital Markets Act. This includes allowing users to remove Cortana and choose their preferred search provider for Windows Search. These features will be rolled out as optional before the compliance deadline of March 6th.
