Explore the New Features of Windows 11: A Comprehensive Guide

Windows 11 just got a lot of new features, and 2023’s big update isn’t just about AI taking over your desktop. There are lots of other updates to check out, including the return of many users’ favorite taskbar option.

Microsoft frequently adds new features to Windows without much fanfare, making them easy to miss. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the exciting new features of Windows 11 and how to make the most of them now.

What You Need to Know About the Update

The current update, referred to as the “Moment 4” update, is essentially the October 2023 Update for Windows 11. It was released as a preview in late September. If you haven’t already received the update, you can go to Settings > Windows Update and enable the option to get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.

Windows 11 Feature #1: Copilot, the AI Assistant for Windows

Copilot is the highly anticipated AI tool for Windows 11. With Copilot, you can easily access powerful AI features, including text and image generation. While its integration with Windows is limited for now, Microsoft plans to continually improve and expand its capabilities.

Windows 11 Feature #2: The Glorious Return of Taskbar Labels

The much-loved taskbar labels have made a comeback in Windows 11. By enabling this feature, you can see buttons for each open window along with their titles, making it easier to navigate and switch between applications.

Windows 11 Feature #3: Windows Backup (and Restore)

Windows 11 now includes a new “Windows Backup” app, which simplifies the process of setting up a new PC or restoring a PC from a backup. This app syncs your folders to OneDrive and backs up your apps, system settings, and credentials, making it seamless to transition from one PC to another.

Windows 11 Feature #4: Yet Another File Explorer Redesign

File Explorer in Windows 11 has undergone a redesign, offering a new Gallery for viewing photos and deeper integration with OneDrive. However, some users have reported a loss of the drag-and-drop feature and potential slowness with this new version.

Windows 11 Feature #5: Inking Support for Text Fields Everywhere

Windows 11 now offers improved support for inking, allowing you to use a stylus to write directly in any text field. This feature eliminates the need for special support in individual applications and provides a smoother experience for stylus users.

Windows 11 Feature #6: Text Recognition for Screenshots

The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 now includes an AI-powered text recognition feature. By capturing a screenshot and using the “Text Actions” button, you can extract text from images—opening up various possibilities for productivity and convenience.

Windows 11 Feature #7: A Settings Home Page that Wastes Less Time

The Settings window in Windows 11 now has a new home page that intelligently displays frequently used settings and adjusts based on your usage patterns. This improvement streamlines navigation and saves you time.

Windows 11 Feature #8: Easy Per-Application Volume Controls

Controlling the volume of individual applications has become easier in Windows 11. By clicking the status icons in the taskbar or using a keyboard shortcut, you can quickly adjust the volume of each open application, eliminating the need for third-party applications.

Windows 11 Feature #9: Enhanced Archive Format Support

Windows 11 now offers built-in support for popular archive formats, such as 7Z, RAR, and TAR. You can effortlessly open these files directly in File Explorer without the need for additional applications, simplifying file management.

Windows 11 Feature #10: Colorful LED Lighting Control

A new Dynamic Lighting page in the Settings allows you to control the LED lighting of your devices without third-party applications. Whether you have a laptop keyboard with color-changing LEDs or multiple peripherals with custom lighting, this centralized control makes managing them easy.

These are just some of the exciting new features in Windows 11. Stay tuned for more updates and enhancements to come. Remember to subscribe to our Windows Intelligence newsletter for the latest tips, tricks, and productivity hacks for Windows.

Source: 10 new Windows 11 features in the October 2023 update to try now