10 Hidden Features in Windows 11 You Need to Try Right Now
Windows 11 has landed with a sleek design and a host of new features. While the revamped Start Menu and centered taskbar get all the attention, there’s a treasure trove of hidden features waiting to be discovered. Let’s dive into the lesser-known gems that can enhance your Windows 11 experience.
1. Snap Layouts for Seamless Multitasking
Snap Layouts bring multitasking to a whole new level. Hover over the maximize button on any window to access a grid of layout options. Whether you’re juggling multiple apps or need a clean split between tasks, Snap Layouts make it easy to organize your screen space with precision.
2. Virtual Desktops for Ultimate Organization
Virtual Desktops are not new, but they’re more powerful in Windows 11. Create separate desktops for work, gaming, or personal use. Each desktop can have its own set of open windows and apps, helping you keep different aspects of your digital life neatly compartmentalized.
3. Focus Sessions to Boost Productivity
Say goodbye to distractions with Focus Sessions. Integrated into the Clock app, this feature allows you to set a timer for focused work intervals, interspersed with breaks. It’s like having a personal productivity coach right on your desktop.
4. Dynamic Refresh Rate for Smoother Visuals
Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR) is a boon for laptop users. It automatically adjusts the refresh rate of your screen based on what you’re doing, conserving battery during low-intensity tasks and ramping up performance for gaming or video playback. Activate it through Settings > System > Display > Advanced display.
5. DirectStorage for Lightning-Fast Load Times
Borrowed from the Xbox Series X, DirectStorage significantly reduces load times in games. By allowing games to load assets directly from the NVMe SSD to the GPU, this feature cuts down on the wait, letting you dive into your favorite titles faster.
6. Improved Touch Gestures for Tablet Mode
Windows 11’s tablet mode features new touch gestures that make navigation a breeze. Swipe up from the bottom to access the Start Menu, or swipe from the left to switch between tasks. It’s intuitive and designed to make your tablet experience smoother than ever.
7. Voice Typing for Hands-Free Control
Voice Typing is Windows 11’s answer to dictation. Press Win + H to bring up the voice typing tool and start speaking. It’s remarkably accurate and supports punctuation commands, making it a great tool for quickly jotting down notes or writing emails.
8. Widgets for At-a-Glance Information
Widgets in Windows 11 provide a customizable feed of news, weather, calendar events, and more. Access it via the taskbar button or swipe from the left on a touch screen. It’s your one-stop-shop for staying informed without interrupting your workflow.
9. Enhanced Clipboard History
Clipboard History has been enhanced in Windows 11. Press Win + V to access a history of copied items, including text, links, and images. You can pin frequently used items and sync your clipboard across devices for seamless copy-pasting.
10. Eco Mode for Energy Efficiency
Eco Mode is perfect for users who want to optimize their device’s energy consumption. Found in the Task Manager, this feature allows you to throttle background processes, extending battery life and reducing your carbon footprint.
Windows 11 isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s packed with features designed to streamline your workflow and enhance your productivity. Dive into these hidden gems and discover new ways to make the most of your Windows experience.
