Microsoft is soon going to roll out a brand new version of its Windows 11 operating system, named 23H2, and it is going to arrive with lots of new features. Here are the most important.
Microsoft is about to release its highly anticipated Windows 11 23H2 update. While the official release is scheduled for September 21, 2023, most of the new features are already available for Windows Insiders. This new version promises as always a series of features and improvements that could redefine the Windows experience. Let’s take a look at some of these novelties that caught the attention of beta testers.
Also read – Windows 11: you will soon be forced to upgrade to version 22H2
Windows Copilot: a revolutionary AI assistant
Windows 11 is about to enter a new era of AI integration with the introduction of Windows Copilot, an AI assistant that combines elements of Bing Chat and additional plugins. Accessible via a sidebar in the taskbar, Windows Copilot aims to revolutionize the way users interact with their PC.
Unlike the Bing sidebar, Windows Copilot will work system-wide. You can press “Windows + C” to instantly open Windows Copilot from any interface. That said, local actions are limited at this time.
Modernized File Explorer interface
Windows 11 23H2 update also brings a sleek and modernized interface to File Explorer. Designed with WinUI and powered by Windows App SDK, this new look aims to improve PC browsing, making it more intuitive and user-friendly than ever.
Among the improvements, a carousel shows recommended files for Azure Active Directory (AAD) users, while the Quick Access folders and Recents sections get aesthetic improvements. For OneDrive users, sync status and quota are now seamlessly integrated into the address bar, simplifying cloud storage management.
Another notable addition is the redesigned details pane, that makes it easy to collaborate and access file information without having to open them. Finally, the 23H2 update adds a new Gallery view to File Explorer from OneDrive and Phone Link. You can view your photos and videos in a timeline from different sources, right in File Explorer.
Complete energy report for your computer
For users who are concerned about their power consumption and battery life, the Windows 11 23H2 update offers a detailed energy report. This feature provides real-time data on your device’s power consumption, breaking it down into different time periods, ranging from the last 24 hours to the past week.
Even better, the feature is able to show “battery usage by app”, allowing users to monitor power consumption on an application-by-application basis. Users can choose to view “total consumption” for an overview or differentiate between “in use” and “background” consumption for active and passive power usage .
Ungroup apps from the taskbar
Microsoft is finally responding to user requests by introducing the ability to ungroup apps and labels in the taskbar. This feature gives users more control over grouping apps based on their preferences.
Built-in cloud backup
Windows 11 23H2 integrates a cloud backup tool powered by OneDrive. It allows saving files, settings preferences, apps from the Microsoft Store, etc. to the cloud. This simplifies the process of migrating to a new PC, as custom settings and applications can finally be effortlessly restored to a brand new machine.
Advanced Volume Mixer
A new advanced volume mixer is placed in the quick settings panel, allowing users to control and adjust volume settings for specific applications. This feature eliminates the need to use third-party apps to customize volume preferences.
Support for RAR, 7Z, Tar.gz files
Windows 11 23H2 extends the native support for archive formats such as RAR, 7Z and Tar.gz. Users can compress and extract data from these archive formats without resorting to third-party applications, such as the famous WinRAR.
Windows Lighting
Gamers will appreciate the Windows Lighting feature, which allows customize the RGB lighting of accessories and peripherals such as keyboards, mice and headsets. This feature can be accessed through the Settings page, eliminating the need for third-party software to customize the lighting for your accessories or PC components.
Dark Mode in Microsoft Paint
Microsoft Paint finally has a dark mode, aimed at users who prefer a darker interface. Additionally, users have the ability to zoom in and out seamlessly when using Microsoft’s popular software.
Instant layout suggestions
Instant Layouts, a popular feature of Windows 11, have been improved. Update 23H2 introduces smart recommendations for window organization. By hovering the mouse over the “maximize” button, you will now get suggestions for an optimal layout of your windows.
Widget customization
The Widget Dashboard now allows users to Disable MSN News Feed completely. This feature therefore responds to requests from the community, who wanted more customization options.
New Dev Home App
Along with the update, Microsoft is expected to introduce the Dev Home app for developers, designed to streamline the setup of development environments. It offers GitHub integration, push and merge change monitoring, app installation via winget, performance-focused widgets, and a Dev Drive feature that uses a ReFS partition to increase performance by 30% in various operations.
Presence detection
The Settings page could accommodate presence detection, a function that uses a proximity sensor to detect the presence of the user. Users can configure settings such as dimming the screen when looking away and automatically waking the screen when approaching the device, to improve both comfort and convenience. confidentiality.
