Eight Windows 11 features are currently in development

Microsoft is constantly trying to improve Windows 11 with new and better features. Getting previews of new items is an advantage for future releases.

Now and in the future, Microsoft is constantly trying to develop and improve the Windows 11 operating system to stay ahead of all the competition. Improvements usually include new features, better features, or simply more features. These new and improved features are currently under development, and if you’re a member of the Windows Insights program, you can see them before they’re released to the public.

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While only a few of the new features in development are ground-breaking or paradigm-shifting, they improve or enhance the overall Windows 11 user experience for almost everyone. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the elements of the operating system currently under development by Microsoft.

Windows 11 features are currently under development

1. Development of the tablet tray

Microsoft has been testing a version of the taskbar that shrinks when a touchscreen device is active without a mouse or keyboard. Basic information such as battery level, time, and internet connection status are constantly displayed, but users must swipe up to access apps, files, and other normal tray actions.

The feature is currently available in advance for Windows Insiders in the developer channel, but it almost arrived with the latest Windows 11 22H2 major update. Accordingly, an improved, tablet-ready version of the taskbar should appear relatively soon.

2. Add seconds to the tray clock

For some inexplicable reason, Microsoft currently does not allow seconds to be displayed in the system tray clock. To add seconds to the taskbar clock in Windows 10, we had to modify the Windows Registry file. In Windows 11, this path is disabled and we had to resort to a third-party app to add a separate time display to the taskbar.

Now, it seems that Microsoft has recognized it and is finally allowing seconds to be displayed on the tray in the system clock, like in Settings. The feature is currently available to Windows Insiders on the Developer Channel.

3. Making better widgets

The implementation of widgets in Windows 11 is a charitable failure. Much more needs to be done to simplify and personalize the content displayed by the widget app. Fortunately, Microsoft agrees with this assessment and is working on improvements and improvements.

The improved widgets feature is previewed on the Developer Channel and includes a simple toggle button to expand and collapse the widgets screen from normal half-screen view to full-screen view. Microsoft has also turned to third-party partners such as Spotify and Meta to develop integrated widgets for their services.

4. Add Windows Studio effects to Quick Settings

An enhanced version of Windows Studio Effects is currently available to Windows Insiders in the beta channel. This version still allows users to add audio and video effects to their webcams and microphones, including portrait blur, eye contact, and background noise removal.

However, Microsoft also adds access to Windows Studio effects to the Windows 11 Quick Settings panel. If this feature is widely available, users can quickly turn on an effect without digging deep into Settings.

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5. Improvement of Microsoft account management

Windows Insiders in the developer channel can now preview the new and improved Windows 11 Account Manager. The new account manager now reveals more detailed information about the cloud storage available in your Microsoft account. This change is necessary because Microsoft has changed the way it measures cloud storage usage. For example, Outlook attachments already count towards the total, and users will see this in the Settings app.

For gamers, the new Windows 11 account manager in development now displays detailed information about Xbox-related subscriptions, including Xbox Game Pass for Console, PC Game Pass, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and Xbox Live Gold -five.

6. Improved voice access with new commands

Better accessibility for users with disabilities and special needs remains a priority for Microsoft developers. While voice activation received many improvements in Windows 11 22H2, there are still more improvements to be made. New voice commands and accommodations specifically related to Microsoft applications can be viewed on the Developer Channel.

7. Add Tabs feature to Notepad

In line with recent updates to other built-in Windows 11 apps, Microsoft is currently testing a new version of Notepad that supports tabs for separate files. This new feature allows users to manage different documents in a single window. It also includes a redesigned indicator for unsaved changes to the document. This update is currently available for viewing on both the developer and beta channels.

8. Add Screen Recorder to Snipping Tool

Users in the developer and beta channels can see an updated version of the Windows 11 Snipping Tool. This new version adds app screen recording.

When users activate this new recording mode, they will be prompted to specify which area of ​​the screen to record. Currently, the version under development only works with a single screen, but a multi-screen option may be made.

Participation in developer and beta channels

To get preview access to Windows 11 features and apps in development, all you have to do is join the Windows Insider program. The program is free and available to anyone.

Microsoft’s Windows Insider Program It’s designed for developers, system administrators, journalists, and anyone else who wants to get a glimpse of new features before major updates. It’s pretty much a Windows beta program that’s always open to the public.