Infrastructure
Cool Windows 11 Features That May Make You Love This OS
Microsoft released the Windows 11 operating system over a year ago, and it was largely well-received as stable and user-friendly.
Microsoft released the Windows 11 operating system over a year ago, and it was largely well-received as stable and user-friendly. The OS is not a large departure from the Windows 10 experience, but it offers meaningful enhancements over the older environment. Even so, adoption has been gradual. As of late 2022, Windows 10 still owned the lion's share of Windows PCs with a 69.75% usage share compared to 16.13% for Windows 11.
People are slowly upgrading, and it is natural to take a wait-and-see approach before investing time in a new operating system. The good news is that Windows 11 has a similar workspace feel to its predecessor but packs significant productivity and security benefits that Windows 10 lacks. Here are some of the standout features that may convince you to make the move.
Snap Layouts. Most people work with more than one app open at a time, and switching back and forth between windows is time-consuming. Approximately 68% of app users say that switching between apps costs them at least 30 minutes per day. Snap Layouts solves the multi-app problem. Simply hover over the maximize icon at the top of any window to access a snap layout, choose the area you want for the active app, and it will snap into place. You can then choose apps to fill the other slots, making side-by-side work far easier.
Master Search. Need to find a document, website, image, or app quickly? The Windows 11 master search lets you click the search icon on your desktop and get results from a single keyword. You can also refine results by type, such as apps, documents, or web results.
Clipcchamp Video Editor. The latest Windows 11 update includes a free built-in video editor called Clipchamp. It offers features you would typically expect to pay for, including templates, effects, video resizing, and green screen, with no additional software required.
Microsoft Teams Video, Audio, and Text Messaging. Video calls have become the norm, and Windows 11 comes with Microsoft Teams preinstalled, offering a simple click-to-call experience. The person you are calling does not need a Microsoft account to connect with you. Teams in Windows 11 also supports SMS messaging directly from your desktop, so you can text someone without picking up your phone.
Accessibility Features. Windows 11 includes several new accessibility features designed to help everyone use their computer comfortably. These include system-wide live captions, focus sessions, voice access, and more natural voices for Narrator, the built-in screen reader.
Collections in Microsoft Edge. If your browser bookmarks have become disorganized, the Collections feature in Microsoft Edge is worth exploring. Click the plus icon at the top of an Edge browser window to open the collections panel, create a collection subject, and add webpages to it. Everything is organized with a visual preview, is easy to access, and easy to delete when you are finished.
Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Phishing remains one of the biggest online security threats, and many phishing messages send users to malicious websites. Windows 11 includes Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, which checks URLs in real time against a dynamic list of reported phishing sites and warns you if a site is potentially dangerous.
Want an Expert to Help with Your Windows 11 Upgrade?
Upgrading your operating system does not have to be intimidating. The team at Cyber One Solutions can help make the transition smooth and ensure your devices are set up correctly. Contact us today to schedule a chat about a Windows upgrade.