About a year after Microsoft released Windows 11, the first major update for the operating system is now available. The innovations and improvements are primarily about practical aspects and safety. Many things should become simpler, nothing more complicated.
The jump from Windows 10 to Windows 11 about a year ago was not a big change. Microsoft didn’t want that at all, users should be able to continue working after the upgrade without having to learn a lot of new functions. This is also the case with the first major update of the operating system to version 22H2. The update focuses on four key areas: making PC use easier and safer, boosting productivity, more flexibility and organization options for the hybrid workspace, and connectivity, creativity and entertainment.
The biggest innovation of Windows 11 was probably a new, centrally placed start menu without the unloved tiles. After the update, you can add a fourth row of apps or reduce the start menu to two rows. It is then also possible to group elements into folders. If you want to have a start menu app in the taskbar, you no longer have to do it with the right mouse button, you can simply drag it there.
With the update, Microsoft improves Windows 11 security by introducing Smart App Control, which prevents untrusted applications, script files, and malicious macros from running on Windows 11. Microsoft uses artificial intelligence (AI) to predict the security of an application before it runs on a device.
The new Microsoft Defender SmartScreen detects and warns when users enter Microsoft credentials in potentially malicious applications or on a compromised website.
Businesses can now leverage presence awareness with Windows Hello for Business. Users are automatically signed in when they approach their work device. As soon as you leave your workplace, the device locks itself.
Microsoft introduced a handy new feature with Snap layouts. It makes it easier to work with several open windows and programs by making suggestions for grouping as soon as you click the maximize icon in the top right corner of a window. Once you have decided on a layout and distributed all windows accordingly on the screen, a snap group is created. It can be minimized and maximized in its entirety. The update adds better touch navigation and the ability to pin multiple browser tabs in Microsoft Edge.
After the fall update, focus sessions can be activated for concentrated work, which automatically turn on the “Do Not Disturb” function. This will mute notifications, and you will no longer see any notifications in the taskbar. The focus feature is also built into the clock app and offers a timer that reminds users to take breaks if desired.
Windows 11 is intended to provide everyone with as much barrier-free access as possible. The update brings the ability to automatically display subtitles for audio content system-wide. Users should now be able to control a PC using voice commands and dictate texts. The update also improves the read-aloud feature, which more accurately reflects natural speech for smoother-sounding audio playback. Unfortunately, these functions are only integrated in the USA for the time being.
If the webcam is compatible, video conferencing users can enhance the video and sound quality with new AI-assisted camera and audio effects in conference calls. Among other things, background noise can be hidden, eye contact with the person you are talking to is sought and the camera follows the movements of the user.
For gaming PCs, the update brings performance optimizations designed to reduce latency. Features like auto HDR and variable refresh rate are now available for windowed games.
With the new Windows 11 version, German users now also have the opportunity to try out the desired integration of the Amazon App Store with a preview, including access to Amazon apps such as Audible or Kindle.
Clipchamp is a new tool for video editing on Windows 11 PCs. It offers templates and effects, among other things.
Microsoft is gradually rolling out the update before it is available for a computer, its compatibility is checked. If you want to check whether the update is already available for the PC, go to Windows Update in the settings and click on Check for updates.
