In the ever-evolving landscape of remote work, the importance of a polished appearance during virtual meetings cannot be overstated. Many professionals have turned to creative solutions, such as virtual backgrounds, to enhance their online presence. While some may opt for elaborate settings, others prefer to showcase their personal space, adding a touch of authenticity to their calls. For Windows users, the introduction of Windows Studio Effects has been a welcome enhancement, though its previous limitation to integrated laptop cameras left many seeking alternatives. Thankfully, the latest builds of Windows 11 are set to broaden access to this feature.
Windows 11’s latest testing builds introduce Windows Studio Effects to a wider range of webcams
Microsoft has rolled out updates to both the Beta and Dev channels of Windows 11, specifically versions 26120.5790 and 26220.5790. Among the various improvements, the expansion of Windows Studio Effects stands out. This feature, previously confined to integrated cameras, will now support a wider array of camera hardware, including USB webcams and rear cameras on laptops equipped with Copilot+ technology.
We are working to bring the Windows Studio Effects experience from integrated laptop cameras to a broader range of camera hardware, helping you stay professional and look your best across more setups.
To activate this feature, users can navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras, select their desired camera, and enable the “Use Windows Studio Effects” option in the advanced settings. This simple adjustment unlocks a suite of AI-powered enhancements designed to elevate the quality of your video feed.
In addition to the camera enhancements, the update introduces a refined dictation tool for Copilot+ PCs, allowing for smoother voice-based dictation with automatic corrections for grammar and punctuation. This feature, powered by on-device small language models, ensures both speed and privacy during use.
New Copilot+ PC experiences
Introducing fluid dictation in voice access
Fluid dictation represents a significant leap forward in voice access capabilities. This feature streamlines the dictation process by automatically correcting speech in real time, minimizing the need for subsequent editing. Users can easily toggle this feature on or off through the settings flyout, making it accessible for all text applications, while maintaining security in sensitive fields like passwords.
Making Windows Studio Effects available on additional cameras
The expansion of Windows Studio Effects is a notable enhancement for those utilizing alternative camera setups. By following a straightforward process in the settings, users can now leverage the AI enhancements that were once limited to integrated cameras. This update is initially rolling out to Intel®-powered Copilot+ PCs, with support for AMD and Snapdragon devices expected in the coming weeks.
Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[Agent in Settings]
- The new agent in Settings experience is being introduced to Windows Insiders whose primary display language is set to French.
[File Explorer]
- File Explorer Home now features on-hover actions for quicker file management, enhancing user efficiency.
[Settings]
- Advanced Settings will revert to the previous “For Developers” experience after updating to this build, with plans for a return soon.
Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[General]
- Addressed an issue causing lag in various scenarios, particularly when interacting with File Explorer and the taskbar.
[Taskbar & System Tray]
- Fixed misalignment issues with app preview windows in the taskbar following display resolution changes.
[File Explorer]
- Resolved a context menu glitch that caused unexpected behavior when right-clicking in certain scenarios.
[Settings]
- Fixed a scanning issue in Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files that caused it to become unresponsive.
Known issues
[General]
- Investigating a new issue that may cause some PCs to bugcheck during hibernation, with recommendations to avoid hibernation until resolved.
[File Explorer]
- Some users may see an empty Shared section in File Explorer Home.
[Audio]
- Users experiencing audio issues can follow specific troubleshooting steps to resolve driver-related problems.
[Xbox Controllers]
- Some users may encounter bugchecks when using Xbox Controllers via Bluetooth, with guidance provided for resolution.
