September 22, 2023
Microsoft is releasing its next big Windows 11 update on September 26th, and it’s packed with new features like Windows Copilot, an AI-powered assistant that can help you with tasks like controlling settings, launching apps, and answering queries.
Other notable new features include a redesigned File Explorer, a new Ink Anywhere feature for pen users, big improvements to the Paint app, and more.
The proposed Windows Copilot is a new AI-powered assistant that can help you with tasks like controlling settings, launching apps, and answering queries. It appears as a sidebar in Windows 11, and it’s integrated all over the operating system. For example, you can use Windows Copilot to write text messages using data from your calendar, or to get navigation options in Outlook.
Also, File Explorer is getting a more modern look and feel in the Windows 11 23H2 update. The updated UI includes a new home interface with large file thumbnails and a carousel interface that can surface recent files and favorited ones.
In addition, a new feature called “Ink Anywhere” will enable handwriting with the Surface Pen or other styluses across all Windows text fields, with automatic conversion to typed text.
The Windows Backup app has been improved in the 23H2 update, making it easier to back up your PC when you want to migrate to a new device. The tool will automatically apply your existing settings to a new PC, and it will also transfer pinned apps from your Start menu and taskbar.
Also, the Snipping Tool is getting a new copy text feature that can detect text in screenshots and allow you to share the text in apps. Microsoft has also added a feature that users you to automatically redact and hide emails and phone numbers from images.
The Photos app is getting a new background blur option in the 23H2 update. This feature will automatically find the background in a photo and highlight the subject, blurring out the background. You can customize the intensity of the blur or even change the areas that get blurred out.
In addition to these features, Microsoft is also working on a number of other changes that will be included in future updates to Windows 11. These include a new volume mixer, native RAR and 7-zip support, Dynamic Lighting for controlling RGB accessories, and even app labels and ungrouping for the Windows 11 taskbar.
The sources for this piece include an article in TheVerge.
