Microsoft just released the highly anticipated Windows 11 23H2 feature update. Packed with exciting new features, this update may persuade Windows 10 users to finally make the switch. Although some of these features were already introduced in the recent Windows 11 22H2 ‘Moment 4’ update, Windows 10 upgraders will still have the opportunity to enjoy all the new additions.
One of the most noteworthy features in Windows 11 23H2 is the introduction of Windows Copilot, a revolutionary AI assistant integrated directly into the PC platform. By combining Bing Chat and additional plugins, Windows Copilot helps users with a wide range of tasks through the convenient Copilot sidebar. This marks a breakthrough in PC usage, as the AI assistant guides users throughout their digital journey. Activating Windows Copilot is a breeze with its prominent placement on the taskbar. The Copilot sidebar remains present across all windows, programs, and apps, providing consistent assistance.
Windows Copilot truly enhances user experience by streamlining operations and facilitating interaction with preferred applications. It also allows for personalized settings and more intuitive actions. Notably, it significantly improves Snap Assist, copy/paste functionality, the Snipping Tool, and personalization options. For instance, it adds a utility layer that can rewrite, summarize, or explain content copied and pasted by users. Moreover, thanks to the integration of Bing Chat, Windows Copilot can answer a wide range of inquiries, including simple tasks like checking the time in Cyprus or more complex ones like planning a trip, including finding flights and accommodations. However, it is important to note that the initial preview version of Windows Copilot did not meet expectations. While it provides promising features like easy dark mode switching, the AI integration feels more like a web wrapper rather than a native Windows 11 feature. The experience is akin to using Bing.com within Microsoft Edge, which affects the overall integration with the operating system. Windows Copilot also tends to misunderstand user intent at times, leading to searches on Bing.com instead of fulfilling the desired request. Additionally, the assistant’s performance can be sluggish, causing delays during web searches and action execution, resulting in a less-than-optimal user experience. Moreover, since the current version heavily relies on internet connectivity, users may encounter issues with responsiveness and seamless integration, especially in slow or no internet connection scenarios. However, there is a potential solution to these issues—native integration of Windows Copilot directly into Windows 11. This upgrade would ensure better integration with the operating system, potentially offering users a more reliable, responsive, and robust AI assistant experience. Microsoft is continuously innovating and refining the platform, using the current shortcomings of Windows Copilot as a stepping stone towards a more seamless and advanced AI-integrated OS.
Another exciting feature in Windows 11 23H2 is the modernized File Explorer experience. Powered by Windows App SDK and designed with WinUI, the revamped File Explorer showcases a modern home interface. It introduces a carousel to showcase recommended files for Azure Active Directory users, with thumbnail support coming soon. Quick Access folders, Favorites, and Recent sections also receive a refreshed WinUI-based look. The new address bar now distinguishes between local and cloud folders and features integrated status icons. For OneDrive users, sync status and quota flyouts are visible on the address bar. Additionally, the update introduces a new details pane in File Explorer (accessible through ALT + Shift + P). This pane displays relevant file information and allows collaboration without the need to open files. Users can view file thumbnails, share status, activity, and related files and emails. The pane can be easily toggled on or off via the View menu or the command bar button.
Windows 11 23H2 also brings Dynamic Lighting for Windows users and developers. This feature provides users and developers with native control of lighting devices that implement the open HID LampArray standard. The primary goal is to enhance the RGB device and software ecosystem by increasing device and app interoperability. The feature includes APIs for Windows apps to control devices from the foreground or background and provides a custom settings page for users. Leading device manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, HP, HyperX, Logitech, Razer, and Twinkly have partnered with Microsoft on this project. A list of currently compatible devices can be found on the Dynamic Lighting Hardware MS Learn page. To configure a HID LampArray device, navigate to the new Dynamic Lighting page in Settings > Personalization > Dynamic Lighting.
Moreover, Windows Ink has received enhancements in Windows 11 23H2. Users can now enable inking directly onto edit fields, greatly improving recognition technology and the scratch-out gesture for making edits. Currently, these improvements support only English (U.S.), but additional language support will be added in the future. Users can manage this experience through Settings > Bluetooth and devices > Pen and Windows Ink, under the “Shell Handwriting” section.
Windows 11 23H2 introduces an enhanced volume mixer in Quick Settings, providing users with the ability to customize audio on a per-app basis and swap devices on the go. A keyboard shortcut (WIN + CTRL + V) has been implemented to provide faster access to the volume mixer. The enhanced volume mixer also includes a quick access list of installed spatial sound technologies and suggests additional options like Dolby and DTS from the Microsoft Store.
The Windows Spotlight experience has been given a revamp in Windows 11 23H2. Users can now enjoy a more immersive experience with preview images, full-screen views, and multiple opportunities to learn more about each image. To activate the new Spotlight, users can right-click the Spotlight icon on the desktop or choose the new Spotlight theme in the “Personalize your background” dropdown in Settings > Personalization > Background.
In line with its mission to eliminate passwords, Microsoft has introduced improved passkey experiences in Windows 11. Users can create and sign in using passkeys through the Windows Hello native experience for any app or website that supports them. Windows 11 also allows users to manage passkeys saved on their device, giving them control to view and delete any passkey as needed.
Windows 11, version 22H2, introduces Enhanced Phishing Protection in Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. This feature protects school or work passwords against phishing attempts and unsafe usage on sites and apps. Users who have enabled warning options for Windows Security will now receive a warning when performing an unsafe password copy and paste operation.
Narrator users will be pleased to know that the latest update brings fresh, natural voices in various languages, including Chinese, Spanish (Spain and Mexico), Japanese, and English (United Kingdom). These modern, on-device text-to-speech natural voices provide a smooth and convenient browsing, reading, and writing experience. The best part is that these voices are available offline once downloaded. To use these natural voices, users can access Narrator Settings with WIN + Ctrl + N, select the Add button under Narrator’s voice, and choose the voice they want to install. Installation of all voices is permissible.
Microsoft’s Windows 11 23H2 feature update introduces a range of exciting new features that are sure to enhance the user experience. From the groundbreaking Windows Copilot AI assistant to the modernized File Explorer, dynamic lighting capabilities, improved Windows Ink, enhanced volume mixer, revamped Windows Spotlight experience, and the ongoing efforts towards a passwordless future, Windows 11 offers a host of new functionalities and improvements. Although some features may still need refinement and further native integration, Microsoft’s continuous innovation is paving the way for a more seamless and advanced AI-integrated operating system.
