The long-awaited Windows 11 23H2 update is coming, and Microsoft has released its best features to testers in the beta channel.
From an innovative AI assistant to a modern file explorer to detailed energy reporting, this update promises countless improvements. Here’s a breakdown of the top three features that caught our attention.
Windows Copilot: The AI assistant integrated into your PC
Taking artificial intelligence integration a step further, Windows 11 will debut Windows Copilot, an AI assistant that integrates Bing Chat with additional plugins. Easily accessible from the taskbar sidebar, Copilot aims to redefine the way a user interacts with his PC.
The assistant is designed to guide users through various tasks, answer questions, and assist with travel planning without leaving their desktop.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. While this feature is promising, early reviews indicate that Copilot may not integrate as seamlessly as users would like. Complaints about slow performance and occasional misunderstandings in interpreting user intent suggest that Microsoft has some bugs to iron out with this breakthrough feature.
Modernized file explorer experience
This update also brings a modernized file explorer interface designed with WinUI and refined using the Windows App SDK. This new look is intended to make navigating your PC easier and more intuitive than ever before.
The carousel shows recommended files for Azure Active Directory (AAD) users, and the appearance of the quick access folder and recent section has been upgraded. OneDrive user sync status and quota pop-ups are now integrated into the address bar, making cloud storage management easier.
Microsoft is also adding an improved details pane that makes it easier to collaborate and access file information without having to open the file. This feature is intended to improve productivity while keeping the user experience smooth and efficient.
Comprehensive energy report for efficient use of electricity
For those who care about energy usage and battery life, the Windows 11 23H2 update includes detailed energy reporting features. This provides real-time data on your device’s energy consumption, broken down over time periods ranging from the past 24 hours to the past week.
Even more interesting is the “Battery Usage by App” feature that allows users to monitor energy consumption by app.
Users can choose to view ‘Total Usage’ for a complete picture, or ‘In Use’ and ‘Background’ to differentiate between active and passive consumption. This new addition could be invaluable for those looking to maximize device performance while minimizing energy usage.