Microsoft has introduced a new optional non-security update for Windows 11 today, unveiling a variety of new features as part of the Moment 5 update. These enhancements include improvements to Copilot for Windows, integration of other AI capabilities, and the addition of various non-AI features.
The update is currently accessible to “seekers” only. To get it, administrators need to enable “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” in Settings > Windows Update and then click on “Check for updates.”
Microsoft has indicated that these features will be gradually rolled out over the next few weeks. Hence, even after installing the optional preview update, not all features might be immediately available. Most features are expected to be automatically activated in the March 2024 optional preview update for Windows 11 version 23H2.
The plan is to officially release the update on the April 2024 Patch Day.
Key Features Introduced in the February 2024 Update for Windows 11
The official release notes on Microsoft’s support site provide details on some of the changes, though not all, leading to some confusion.
The highlighted features include:
- The Phone Link settings page has been renamed to Mobile devices and can now be found under Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices.
- The Snipping Tool now allows editing recent photos and screenshots from connected Android devices after granting PC access to the Android device under Mobile devices.
- Support for USB 80Gbps, offering doubled maximum speeds, has been added.
Further features included in the update can be found on another support page on Microsoft’s website, with details such as:
- Voice access now supports French, German, and Spanish languages, alongside enhancements for multiple displays and custom voice shortcuts.
- New features encompass Narrator’s voices, image detection improvements, enhancements to Nearby Share, and improvements to Snap Layouts.
Windows 365 Updates
There are mentions of the Windows 365 Boot and Windows 365 Switch features. Windows 365 Boot now offers a dedicated mode for automatic sign-in using passwordless authentication.
Organizations can incorporate custom branding, manage PC settings from Cloud PC, and take advantage of a new fail-fast mechanism.
Windows 365 Switch users now benefit from an easier disconnect option, new desktop indicators, and enhanced connection details for Windows 365 Frontline cloud PCs.
Microsoft Copilot Enhancements
In a blog post on Microsoft’s official Windows blogs website, Yusuf Mehdi outlines the improvements in Microsoft Copilot integration on Windows 11.
The updates encompass support for plugins like Shopify and Kayak, new Windows skills for device-related commands, and added capabilities. Note that Copilot performs tasks remotely on Microsoft servers.
Closing Thoughts
The rollout and announcement of these features might be a bit complex, with key information scattered across various pages on Microsoft’s website. The installation process may not guarantee instant access to features, and some functionalities might require some time to become fully operational.
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