Microsoft is unveiling a suite of new features for Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs, which are now available in preview mode. This announcement builds upon insights shared through the Windows Insider Preview Program, offering users a glimpse into enhancements designed to make their computing experience more intuitive and accessible.
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While these features are being introduced today, it’s important to note that they are primarily accessible to those who choose to participate in this ongoing beta testing phase. The highlights include:
- New agent in Settings: This feature, touted as the “first agent in Windows,” allows users of Copilot+ PCs to utilize natural language for navigating the Windows 11 Settings app. Currently, it is available in preview for users with Snapdragon X-based Copilot+ PCs operating in English.
- Click to Do (Preview) improvements: Exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, this feature now includes new actions such as Practice in Reading Coach, Read with Immersive Reader, Draft with Copilot in Word, send a Teams message, and schedule a Teams meeting.
- Photo relight in Photos: This feature, available only on Copilot+ PCs equipped with a Snapdragon X processor, offers professional lighting controls with up to three virtual light sources, manual adjustments, and built-in presets. Support for AMD and Intel processors is expected soon.
- Sticker generator and Object select in Paint: These creative tools are also exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, enhancing the artistic capabilities of the Paint application.
- Perfect screenshot and Color picker in Snipping Tool: This versatile app is receiving enhancements, including a Perfect screenshot tool that can auto-crop to windows or selections, alongside a convenient Color picker utility. Notably, this feature is available to all Windows 11 users.
- Copilot Vision: Now accessible in the U.S., this feature allows users to interact with and gain insights about anything displayed on their screens via the Copilot app and Microsoft Edge.
- Edge Game Assist: A new mini-web browser integrated within the Game Bar, this tool provides assistance with video games without requiring players to exit their gaming experience.
- Quick machine recovery: This feature automatically identifies and resolves issues that lead to unexpected restarts. It introduces a new “unexpected restart experience,” effectively reducing the reboot wait time from 40 seconds to as little as 2 seconds on most PCs running Windows 11 version 24H2. Additionally, the traditional Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) has been updated to a sleek black screen.
These Week D preview updates are now rolling out for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 23H2, with users potentially experiencing these new features shortly. Windows 10 users will also see some minor fixes included in this update.
As these enhancements unfold, users are encouraged to explore the new functionalities and enjoy an enriched Windows experience.
