1. Revolutionizing the Start Menu with AI

One of the most significant updates is coming to the Start Menu. Microsoft is implementing an AI-driven categorization of apps, similar to the app shelf seen on iOS and iPadOS. Here’s how it will work:

• Automatic Categorization: Apps will automatically be grouped into categories like Utilities, Productivity, Creativity, Games, and more. The AI will assess your apps and assign them to the most appropriate category.
• Subfolders: Some apps will even be grouped into subfolders, improving the organization.
• Flexible View Options: The new layout allows for a categorized view or an alphabetical grid view, giving users the flexibility to choose how they prefer to see their apps.

This overhaul aims to make navigating your app collection faster and more intuitive.

2. Phone Companion Integration

Soon, Windows 11 will offer deeper integration with your smartphone through the Phone Companion feature, providing quick access to your phone’s information directly from the system tray. Here’s what you can expect:

• Quick Access: View battery status, messages, calls, and photos from your phone right in Windows 11.
• Send Files: Send files to your phone with a simple drag-and-drop interface.
• Customization: You’ll also be able to customize the recent activity displayed in the sidebar for a more personalized experience.

This integration is designed to improve your phone-to-PC experience, making it seamless and efficient.

3. Enhanced System Tray and Battery Indicator

The system tray is getting some love with a more dynamic and informative battery indicator. Key updates include:

• Battery Percentage: A new toggle lets you enable or disable the battery percentage indicator in the system tray.
• Color Changes: The battery icon will change colors based on your charging state. For instance, it turns green while charging and reverts to white when unplugged.
• Extended Customization: The updated system tray will also provide better access to power settings, improving user convenience.

4. Emoji Button on the Taskbar

If you use emojis often, you’ll love the new Emoji button that’s coming to the taskbar. This will make accessing the Emoji panel far more accessible:

• Click to Open: Simply click the emoji icon in the taskbar to open up the Emoji panel and select your desired symbol.
• Context-Sensitive: The panel will only appear while you’re typing in certain text fields, ensuring it doesn’t clutter the workspace.
• Customization Options: You can manage when the emoji button appears by adjusting settings to make it visible always, while typing, or never.

This change aims to make using emojis more convenient while keeping the taskbar clean and functional.

5. Smaller Icons for a Cleaner Taskbar

Windows 11 users will also get the option to shrink taskbar icons when space is tight:

• Dynamic Icon Size: The icons will automatically shrink when the taskbar is full, making more room for additional apps.
• Manual Adjustment: Users can also manually set the taskbar icons to be smaller all the time, optimizing space on screens with limited real estate.

This change will make it easier to manage your taskbar, especially on devices with smaller displays.

6. Simplified File Sharing with Drag-and-Drop

Sharing files in Windows 11 will soon become faster and more intuitive:

• Quick Sharing: You’ll be able to drag and drop files to the top of your screen to instantly share them with a recently used app.
• Faster Access: This drag-and-drop sharing eliminates the need to open multiple menus, streamlining the process and saving time.

This feature is particularly useful for users who regularly share files across different platforms.

7. Lock Screen Customization with Widgets

One of the more aesthetically pleasing updates is lock screen widget customization. Here’s what’s new:

• Personalized Layout: Users will be able to choose which widgets appear on their lock screen, from weather to sports to third-party apps.
• Custom Organization: You can manage widget positions and even remove unwanted widgets, customizing the screen to your needs.
• Real-Time Updates: These widgets will display live updates, ensuring you have all the relevant info at a glance.

This feature will give users more control over their lock screen experience.

8. Windows Hello: A Friendlier Face

Windows Hello is getting a small but delightful update. The ID screen will now display:

• Smiley Face & Checkmark: Upon successful authentication, users will see a friendly smiley face and checkmark, adding a touch of personality to the login process.

This minor update brings a more approachable feel to the secure Windows Hello feature.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the exciting updates coming to Windows 11 this year. Microsoft is focused on improving user experience, whether through better organization, faster processes, or more personalized options. Keep an eye out for these features in upcoming preview builds, and share your thoughts on which ones you’re most excited for!

Discussion Questions:

• What feature are you most excited about in Windows 11?
• Do you think the new Start Menu will improve your app organization?
• How would you use the Phone Companion feature?

Stay tuned for more updates and deeper dives into these features!