Windows 23's 2H11 update is coming this fall with new features and fixes. See what it will bring us.
As Microsoft prepares for the upcoming release 23H2 of Windows 11 in the stable version, it has already deployed the upcoming changes to the Insider channel.
Let's see what will happen to the operating system with its arrival.
Windows Copilot
Microsoft revealed Windows Copilot, the first AI assistant integrated into a PC platform, in its latest Windows 11 Insider update.
This innovative feature combines Bing Chat and other plugins to help users with various tasks through the Copilot sidebar. This change represents an AI assistant ready to guide users in all their digital tasks.
Activating Windows Copilot is a simple process, conveniently located on the taskbar. The sidebar is present across all windows, programs and applications, ensuring consistent help.
It will allow users to optimize functions, interact with preferred applications, personalize settings and perform actions more intuitively. It will enhance features like Snap Assist, copy/paste, Snipping Tool and personalization.
New file explorer
Powered by the Windows App SDK and designed with WinUI, the revamped File Explorer features a streamlined interface. Here, the recommended files for Azure Active Directory (AAD) users are presented in a carousel, with thumbnail support coming next.
The Quick Access folders, Favorites and recent sections also benefit from a refreshed WinUI-based look.
The new address bar differentiates between local and cloud folders and has built-in status icons.
Microsoft is also introducing a revamped details window in File Explorer (accessible via ALT + Shift + P). It is designed to display relevant file information and enable collaboration without having to open files.
When a file is selected and the window is activated, users will see a thumbnail, sharing status, activity, related files and emails, and more. The new window can be turned on or off via the View menu and a button on the command bar.
Dynamic lighting
Dynamic Lighting gives users and developers native control over their device's lighting, which implements the open HID LampArray standard.
This move toward an open standard is designed to enhance the RGB device and software ecosystem by increasing device and application interoperability. The new feature also includes APIs for Windows apps to control devices and a custom settings page for users.
Major device manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, HP, HyperX, Logitech, Razer and Twinkly have partnered with Microsoft on this project. You can find a list of currently compatible devices at MS Learning Hardware Dynamic Lighting page.
To configure a HID LampArray device, go to the new Dynamic Lighting page in Settings > Personalization > Dynamic Lighting.
Windows Ink improvements
The updated Windows Ink allows users to enable Ink directly on edit fields, significantly improving recognition technology and gestures when users need to make changes.
The goal is to allow users to write handwriting anywhere they can type on their Windows device.
Currently, these enhancements only support English (US), but additional language support is on the way. You can manage this experience through Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Pen & Windows Ink.
Improved volume mixer
Windows 11 version 23H2 introduces a new improved volume mixer in Quick settings, which allows for quick adjustment of sound per app and device switching.
A new keyboard shortcut (WIN + CTRL + V) provides faster access to the volume mixer.
Updated Windows Spotlight
The upgraded Windows Spotlight offers a more immersive experience with preview images, full-screen views, and multiple opportunities to learn more about each image.
Users can enable it by right-clicking the Spotlight icon on the desktop or by selecting the new Spotlight theme in the “Personalize your background” drop-down menu in Settings > Personalization > Background.
A future without passwords
Microsoft aims to make passwords a thing of the past. The company has enhanced password experiences, where you can create and sign in using passwords with the native Windows Hello experience, for any app or website that supports them.
Windows 11 also lets you manage the passwords stored on your Windows device, giving you control to view or delete any passkey from the device.
Warnings for copying and pasting insecure passwords
Version 22H2 offers improved protection against phishing through Microsoft Defender SmartScreen and protects passwords.
Users who have Windows Security warning options enabled will now receive a warning when they perform an insecure copy and paste operation of a password.
Natural voices to the Narrator
The latest update introduces fresh natural Narrator voices in various languages including Chinese, Spanish (Spain and Mexico), Japanese and English (UK). These modern natural text-to-speech voices provide a smooth and comfortable browsing, reading and writing experience.
He does not have a new voice for Greek.
Local file sharing improvements
Windows has revamped local file sharing with notable improvements. Updates include:
- A new design of Windows sharing windows according to the principles of Windows 11.
- A built-in Outlook option to email files directly from the Windows share window.
- A search box in the Windows sharing window to search for contacts in Outlook.
- Up to 10 suggested contacts for quick file sharing.
- A new button to enable nearby sharing.
- Your computers are at the top of the list under Nearby Sharing.
- Faster file sharing between computers via Wi-Fi Direct.
These experiences apply to sharing local files from various applications that use the built-in Windows sharing window.
General information
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 23H2 will be released in the fourth quarter of 2024 as a small activation package, making it a quick install for users already running 22H2.
If you want to try the update today, join the Windows Insider channel, but don't do it on your main computer, as some systems are still unstable and in testing.
