Windows 11 is poised to introduce a long-awaited feature that enhances user experience by allowing multiple applications to access the same camera simultaneously. This capability, a key highlight of Windows 11 Build 26120.2702, was recently made available to Insiders in the Dev Channel. While Microsoft also released Windows 11 Build 22635.4655 last week, the updates in that version were relatively minor.
Multi-App Camera Feature
The new multi-app camera functionality aims to improve accessibility, particularly for the Hard-of-Hearing community. It enables video streaming to both a sign language interpreter and the audience concurrently, as noted by Microsoft. However, the potential applications of this feature extend beyond its initial intent, as many users are likely to find innovative ways to utilize it. The previous restriction of webcams operating with only one application at a time has been a puzzling limitation, and this update is met with enthusiasm from users.
New advanced camera configuration: “Allows multiple applications to access the camera stream simultaneously” https://t.co/N4KJvg1nHnDecember 13, 2024
To access the multi-app camera feature, users will need to navigate to new configuration options within the Settings app on Windows 11. This section will also provide options to enable basic camera features, which can assist in troubleshooting when issues arise. Additionally, Microsoft is developing a feature that will allow users to select media types, including resolution and frame rate, which will be included in a future build.
<h3 class="article-bodysection” id=”section-windows-11-build-26120-2702-new-features”>Windows 11 Build 26120.2702: New Features
Alongside the multi-app camera feature, Windows 11 Build 26120.2702 introduces API support for third-party passkey providers, enhancing security and user convenience.
<h3 class="article-bodysection” id=”section-windows-11-build-22635-4655-changes-and-improvements”>Windows 11 Build 22635.4655: Changes and Improvements
- Start Menu
- Improvements have been made to the filtering of recommended websites on the Start menu, based on feedback from Windows Insiders. The aim is to showcase high-quality sites tailored to individual browsing histories. Users are encouraged to provide feedback on any recommendations they find inappropriate.
- Spotlight on the Lock Screen
- Microsoft is experimenting with various treatments for the top right hotspot on the lock screen. Users can now click the “Like icon” to learn more about the spotlight image displayed.
- Spotlight on the Desktop
- Changes are being rolled out to the Desktop Spotlight icon interaction model. Users can now easily discover more about their background images by hovering over or clicking the “Learn about this picture” icon.
- Windows Share
- The Windows share window will now display a visual preview for links or web content being shared, enhancing the sharing experience.
