Keeping track of the ever-evolving Windows 11 feature set can be a challenge, given Microsoft's frequent feature releases and announcements. However, you're in luck because we've got you covered. Our guide brings together all the significant Windows 11 features that may have slipped under your radar but are essential for you to be well-informed about.
This year's first major update of Windows 11 introduced something almost revolutionary with the integration of Bing AI Chat. Microsoft opted to prominently feature this new search functionality within the Edge browser, ensuring it occupies a central position on the Windows 11 taskbar.
Microsoft's latest update has brought improvements to the Search bar on the Windows 11 taskbar. It's no longer just a button; now, you can initiate searches directly by typing in it, with the Search box opening as usual.
Simply click on the Bing button in the top right corner of the Edge browser to try it out. The chatbot guides users in their search for the correct answer by asking context-dependent, mainly precise questions and requesting clarification as needed.
Live subtitles are now a feature of Windows 11. This means that any audio content played on your computer, whether it's locally stored or streamed, audio-only or video, will receive automatic subtitles if recognized. To activate this feature, simply press Win-Ctrl-L, click "Download," and wait for the setup process to finish. Subtitles initially appear at the top of the screen, but you can customize their position using the cogwheel icon on the right. Additional language options and settings can also be adjusted here. Once configured, you can toggle subtitles on and off with the Win-Ctrl-L shortcut.
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Following extensive testing within the Windows 11 Insider versions, Microsoft has officially enabled the seconds display within the taskbar clock for all Windows 11 users. To activate this feature, navigate to your Windows settings, specifically under "Personalization -> Taskbar -> Taskbar behaviors." Simply select the checkbox labeled "Show seconds in the taskbar clock." However, it's worth noting that Microsoft advises users that this setting may result in increased power consumption.
Windows 11 has introduced an interesting change to Widgets, expanding the available space for user-configured apps. These Widgets will now span three columns instead of the previous two, ensuring a more personalized experience. Additionally, Microsoft has unveiled a Widgets picker, offering previews of chosen widgets and assistance in finding additional options.
For almost 30 years, the print key has been used for capturing the entire screen as a screenshot. However, with the new Windows 11 update, the Snipping Tool now starts with four selection options that make it much more versatile. With the mouse button pressed, you can select any section onscreen in Rectangular Mode, while Freehand Mode allows any shape to be selected.
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Furthermore, Window Mode lets you select a specific window to be screenshot. The Full Screen Mode still saves the entire screen, similar to how the Print key worked before. The complicated key combination Win-Shift-S for the Snipping Tool has been replaced by a much simpler approach. Users can now confidently utilize the Print key for a more streamlined and efficient experience.
