Windows 11 23H2 : Top New Features
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Windows 11 23H2 : Top New Features

     

    Microsoft is preparing to release the Windows 11 23H2 update, also known as the "Moment 4" update, on September 21, 2023, at the Surface event in New York. This update, with OS build number 22631, is expected to introduce significant features and improvements to Windows 11. These features are currently being tested on Windows 11 Dev and Release Preview channels.

    While it's not officially confirmed, there is speculation that Windows 11 23H2 might be the last feature update for Windows 11, with Windows 12 anticipated for release in 2024. In this article, we will explore the key features of the Windows 11 23H2 update, highlighting the changes and enhancements it brings to the Windows 11 experience.

    Windows 11 23H2: Best New Features

    1. AI-powered Windows Copilot

    The standout feature of the Windows 11 23H2 update is Windows Copilot, an AI-powered chatbot integrated into the operating system. Similar to Bing Sidebar but with broader functionality, Windows Copilot can perform local actions like enabling dark mode, taking screenshots, and handling various Windows 11 tasks using natural language commands.


    It's accessible system-wide with a simple "Windows + C" shortcut, and while its current capabilities are somewhat limited, Microsoft plans to introduce support for third-party actions in the future. This feature enhances the user experience by bringing AI-driven assistance to Windows 11.

    2. Redesigned File Explorer

    The Windows 11 23H2 update builds upon the tabbed File Explorer introduced in the previous 22H2 update. This time, Microsoft is enhancing the File Explorer further by rewriting certain elements in XAML, including the homepage, header, address bar, and details pane. This effort aims to modernize the File Explorer user interface by eliminating legacy components.


    In addition to the UI improvements, the 23H2 update introduces a new Gallery View feature within File Explorer, which allows users to seamlessly view photos and videos in a timeline from various sources such as OneDrive and Phone Link. Furthermore, it incorporates a new Details pane and a streamlined Homepage, integrating with OneDrive and Office files. Overall, the Windows 11 23H2 update completes the modernization of the File Explorer, enhancing the user experience and file management capabilities.


    3. Ungroup Taskbar Apps

    Microsoft is responding to user feedback by gradually adding requested features to the Windows 11 Taskbar.

    The Windows 11 23H2 update introduces the long-awaited ability to ungroup apps and labels on the Taskbar, allowing users to customize whether they want to combine Taskbar apps or keep them separate. This change is particularly meaningful for power users and is likely to be well-received by those who prefer more control and organization in their Taskbar. Instructions on how to ungroup Taskbar apps on Windows 11 are available in a linked article.


    4. Built-in Cloud Backup

    In Windows 11's 23H2 release, Microsoft is introducing a native cloud backup tool, leveraging OneDrive.

    This tool allows users to seamlessly back up their files, settings, preferences, Microsoft Store apps, and more to the cloud. This feature enables easy restoration of personalized settings and apps on a new PC with just a single click, similar to the seamless cloud backups we're accustomed to on Android and iOS devices. It's a convenient and cool addition for Windows 11 users.


    5. Advanced Volume Mixer

    In the Windows 11 23H2 update, Microsoft is introducing an advanced volume mixer, taking inspiration from the popular Windows 11 app, EarTrumpet.


    This feature, located within the Quick Settings panel, allows users to control and adjust the volume for specific apps. Users no longer need third-party apps to customize their volume preferences, making it a convenient addition to Windows 11. Kudos to Microsoft for this improvement!


    6. RAR, 7Z, Tar.gz File Support

    In the Windows 11 23H2 update, Microsoft is addressing a long-standing user request by adding native support for additional archive file formats like RAR, 7Z, Tar.gz, and more. This means users can now easily compress and extract files in these formats directly within Windows 11, eliminating the need for third-party tools like 7-Zip or WinRAR. It's a welcome improvement for file management on the platform.

    And Windows 11 already supports ZIP out of the box. According to the Windows blog, support for more archive formats like .tar, .tar.gz, .tar.bz2, .tar.zst, .tar.xz, .tgz, .tbz2, .tzst, .txz, .rar, .7z, etc. have been added using the libarchive open-source project.



    7. Windows Lighting

    The Windows 11 23H2 update introduces a notable feature called Windows Lighting, which offers dynamic lighting customization for gamers.

    This feature allows users to personalize the RGB lighting on their accessories and peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and headsets. Accessible from the Settings page, Windows Lighting eliminates the need for third-party software to customize RGB lighting, making it a convenient and appealing addition for gamers.


    8. Dark Mode in MS Paint

    In the Windows 11 23H2 update, Microsoft is fulfilling its promise to introduce a dark mode for Microsoft Paint. Users on the latest Release Preview build can immediately enjoy this feature.

    Dark mode enthusiasts will appreciate this addition to Microsoft Paint. Additionally, users will now have a smoother zoom in/out experience while using MS Paint.


    9. Snap Layout Suggestions

    In the Windows 11 23H2 update, Microsoft is enhancing the Snap Layouts feature, which is already a standout feature of Windows 11. Now, Snap Layouts will intelligently recommend possible window layout positions by considering all your active programs.


    To access these suggestions, you can hover your mouse over the "maximize" button, as before. This minor change will be especially beneficial for users who are new to Snap Layout, making it easier to organize windows neatly.



    10. Widgets Customization

    In the Windows 11 23H2 update, Microsoft is addressing a long-standing community request by providing the option to disable the MSN news feed in the Widget dashboard.


    This update allows users to remove the news feed entirely, a feature that has been eagerly awaited. Additionally, Microsoft is testing the possibility of adding widgets directly to the desktop, although it's uncertain whether this feature will be included in the 23H2 update or not.



    11. New Dev Home App

    At the Microsoft Build 2023 event, Microsoft unveiled a new "Dev Home" app designed specifically for developers to streamline the setup of their development environment. It's highly likely that this new Dev Home app will come pre-installed with the Windows 11 23H2 build.



    The Dev Home app offers several developer-friendly features, including the ability to connect your GitHub account, monitor push and merge changes, install apps via winget, add performance-centric widgets, and more. Additionally, it introduces a "Dev Drive" feature that can be formatted as a ReFS partition (Resilient File System), which can be used to create a virtual hard drive for software development purposes. The use of ReFS results in a 30% performance improvement in various operations. This app aims to enhance the developer experience on Windows 11.


    12. Presence Sensing

    In the Windows 11 23H2 update, a new feature called "Presence Sensing" is introduced in the Settings page.




    This feature offers various options, including the ability to automatically dim the screen when the system detects that you're not looking at it. It utilizes a proximity sensor to determine your presence and lets you choose the sensor you prefer. Additionally, it includes "Wake-on Approach," which turns on the display when it senses your presence. From a privacy standpoint, this adaptive dimming feature is a valuable addition, enhancing user convenience and energy efficiency.

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