Windows 11 New Features 2024
Windows 11 Features to Look Forward to in March 2024
Microsoft is gearing up to introduce Windows 11 new features 2024, and they’re bringing some surprises along the way.
Recently, Microsoft unveiled the official lineup of features coming with the next update of Windows 11, which they dub as the “Moment” update. While many of these features were already on the radar, a few new ones have cropped up, such as updated Copilot controls and the option to use your Android phone as a webcam.
With the combination of features from previous Windows 11 preview releases and the latest announcement from Microsoft, users can now anticipate what’s in store for their Windows 11 PCs in the upcoming weeks. However, these updates won’t land on your device right away. Previously referred to as the February 2024 Moment, Microsoft has missed that deadline.
Now, Microsoft offers two timelines for receiving these feature updates. First, during the optional non-security preview release in March 2024, provided you’ve opted in for immediate updates. According to Microsoft, most of these new features will be up for grabs then. Otherwise, you’ll need to wait an additional month.
“We expect most new features to be widely available by the April 2024 security update release for all eligible devices,” Microsoft added in a blog post, keeping the option open for a slightly delayed rollout. Interestingly, Microsoft isn’t officially labeling this as a “moment” or “update,” but rather a release of new features.
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Windows 11 New Copilot Skills, plugins, shortcuts, and commands
Microsoft’s AI-powered Copilot, initially introduced as a chatbot and PC control center, is getting a significant upgrade. Previously limited in its actions, such as switching to dark mode, Copilot now offers a plethora of new functions:
- Toggling battery saver
- Displaying device, system, and battery information
- Accessing storage and connectivity options
- Enabling live captions and narrator features
- Managing voice input and text settings
- Revealing available Wi-Fi networks and storage space
- Emptying the recycle bin, and more
These actions, termed “Copilot Skills,” are set to roll out by late March, according to Microsoft. Essentially, users can command Copilot to perform specific tasks, simplifying PC management.
Additionally, Copilot will relocate to the lower right-hand corner of your PC screen, departing from its usual spot on the Taskbar. Microsoft has quietly introduced task-specific Copilots and plugins, including a vacation planner and cooking assistant, with more plugins from OpenTable, Shopify, Kayak, and Klarna on the horizon.
Using your smartphone as a webcam
In a surprising move, Microsoft announces the ability to utilize your Android smartphone or tablet camera as a webcam across various video applications. While this feature was anticipated to be part of the official release, Microsoft reveals it’s gradually rolling out to all Insider Channels, including Release Preview.
To access this feature, users need the Link to Windows phone application, version 1.24012 or above, and an Android phone running Android 9.0 or higher.
Enhanced editing tools in Photos and Clipchamp
Microsoft is enhancing the editing capabilities within the Photos app and Clipchamp. Magic Select, a beloved feature from Paint 3D, will now be integrated into Photos, allowing users to intelligently remove objects from images using Generative Erase. Moreover, Clipchamp users can now easily trim unwanted silences from audio tracks via AI.
Exciting times lie ahead for Windows 11 users, as Microsoft continues to innovate and refine the user experience with these upcoming features.
