Windows 11 2022 is starting to arrive on PC. But what is interesting about this version? Should I rush to install? Explanation.
Are you aware that Windows 11 has been available for almost a year now? At the time, we were surprised that Microsoft was moving so fast. However, Windows 11 has proven to be a formula that completely redefines the Redmond firm. This does not save you from some disappointments from time to time. Today, the American giant begins rolling out the Windows 11 2022 update, the first major version that improves security, accessibility and brings some improvements to video games. And this version will allow you to get future updates faster.
How to get Windows 11 2022?
Go to Windows Update in Settings and see if your PC is eligible. As always, Microsoft says it’s taking a “measure and wave”approach, which means you might not see said update yet. The company also explains that there may be conflicts on your system that prevent you from being eligible for this version. In this regard, this applies to Windows 11 and Windows 10, although for the latter you can use the PC Health Check app to check compatibility.
How about faster updates?
Panos Panay, chief product officer of Microsoft, said in February that the company aims to provide “continuous innovation”and more frequent Windows 11 updates beyond the annual release. It starts with version 2022. The company has “significantly reduced”the size of updates (around 450MB) as well as installation time, John Cable, who is in charge of servicing and delivering Windows, explained.
The Windows 11 2022 update will also be greener, allowing you to schedule your installation for a time when your supplier relies on clean energy. This feature won’t be available everywhere, and Microsoft has yet to reveal how it can detect it, but in theory it’s a good way to limit carbon emissions.
But where are the new features?
At first glance, it will be difficult to tell if you have the latest version installed. There are no major interface changes, but Microsoft says it will add tabs to File Explorer in October. I’m using an early version of this feature and it really cuts down on windows when transferring files. Obviously, you can save the current operation.
You can also change the Start menu to include more pinned apps or recommendations. In addition, Microsoft is adding the Clipchamp video editor, which is a big improvement over the existing tool.
Much like the improved Windows Update interface, the vast majority of new features in the 2022 release can be found under the hood. These include numerous accessibility improvements, real-time system-level captioning, natural voice for Narrator, and improved voice command previews.
Microsoft is also looking to make its products, both hardware and software, more accessible. This includes the launch of the Surface Adaptive Kit, the ability to set up a Disability Answer Desk, and the announcement of a five-year commitment to closing the disability gap. These features, introduced in the Windows 11 update, are managed by the Windows accessibility team.
For example, the new Focus Sessions experience is being overseen by Alexis Kane, a project manager with ADHD. She found that notifications made her more anxious and interfered with her work, so she helped develop a focus mode without completely turning off notifications. Focus Sessions reduces the clutter from these warnings and taskbar icons and lets you quantify how long you’ve been working with the watch app.
The best video game experience
Say goodbye to Xbox Game Bar and hello to Windows Controller Bar. Now, when you press the Xbox button on your Xbox controller, you will see a pop-up that allows you to return to the last game or launcher. What’s more, you can enjoy games with lower latency, Auto HDR and VRR in windowed mode. Previously, these features were only available in a full-screen game.
HDR support has also been improved. A new calibration app lets you fine-tune the colors and brightness levels of your HDR screens. Support for Auto HDR has also been expanded, allowing you to take advantage of HDR in games that don’t natively have it.
Other Features
In addition to File Explorer tabs, Microsoft has added a few new features coming in October:
- Improved image processing in the Photos app. It also lets you save photos directly to OneDrive and enjoy features like Memories.
- A dedicated taskbar menu that groups multiple apps together instead of placing them at the bottom of the screen.
- Additional suggested options when copying data. For example, if you select a phone number, you’ll see a link to make a call through Teams.