Windows 11’s 2023 Update: A Closer Look at 12 Key Features

Microsoft has commenced the rollout of Windows 11’s most substantial update for 2023 today. While the Copilot artificial intelligence sidebar takes the spotlight, there’s a plethora of features to explore in this release.

The Windows 11 2023 Update (Version 23H2) brings over 150 enhancements, encompassing AI-powered functionalities for built-in apps and aesthetic refinements to align them with Windows 11’s overall style. Additionally, it incorporates some behind-the-scenes improvements.

This update addresses specific issues, such as correcting the spelling of the capital of Ukraine from Kiev to Kyiv and accommodating the new daylight saving time in Greenland.

One notable aspect that should please Windows users is the streamlined installation process, thanks to Microsoft’s adoption of the same servicing model used for monthly updates through Windows Update. Microsoft assures users that they need not worry about compatibility between applications and devices when transitioning to this version.

While not every feature in this update is groundbreaking, here are 12 noteworthy highlights:

1. Windows Copilot: The introduction of Windows Copilot marks a significant shift in Windows 11, ushering in the era of generative AI in desktop operating systems. Although still in preview, it’s now available to all Windows users, allowing tasks like composing emails, summarizing web content, and more. Voice input support further enhances its functionality.
2. New File Explorer Design and Features: Windows 11’s File Explorer receives substantial attention, with a gallery view for photos and redesigned elements like the home, address bar, and search box. Future updates will include support for native RAR archive files and AI-powered recommendations for business users.
3. Background Removal and Generative AI in Paint App: The Paint app gains Photoshop-like layers, background blur, and support for transparency in PNG files. Notably, it now includes an AI-powered Cocreator tool, leveraging OpenAI’s Dall-E for generating images from text prompts.
4. Background Blur in Photos App: The Windows 11 Photos app now utilizes AI to blur photo backgrounds, and users can search for photos based on their subjects when synced to OneDrive.
5. Passkey Support: Windows 11 introduces support for passkeys, offering a more secure alternative to passwords. It works with Windows Hello biometric authentication and can also utilize Android or iPhone devices for authentication.
6. A Better Mail App: Outlook for Windows: The Mail app gets an upgrade, replaced by a free version of Outlook for Windows that supports multiple email services. It features Focused and Other tabs for efficient email management, AI writing tools, an integrated Calendar, and the ability to pin and schedule emails.
7. Taskbar Improvements: The Taskbar, a point of contention since Windows 11’s initial release, sees improvements in this update. Apps can now have wider, clearer Taskbar entries, making it easier to identify running applications.