In the new version of Windows 11, Microsoft is introducing interesting and useful changes to the Start menu, the Snipping tool, and the built-in AI image generator.
New menu
Floating widgets
Microsoft has begun testing an original innovation in the Start menu of the Windows 11 operating system. which can add a floating panel with "companions" - widget-like elements. This feature is already available in the latest test builds of Windows 11 for members of the Windows Insider program.
Although there has been no official announcement from Microsoft yet, it appears that Start Menu Companions is a way to developers to expand the functionality of the Start menu in Windows 11 using widget-like elements. This widget is located inside a floating island that can be pinned next to the Start menu. It's likely that app creators will be able to develop programs that provide widget-like information using responsive cards, a cross-platform method of displaying blocks of user interface information.
Setting up companions
These companions can be configured in the main settings section of Windows 11. Users will be given the ability to install multiple companions and toggle them on or off. These companions appear to be focused on internet content, similar to the widgets in Windows 11.
Updated Snipping Tool
At the same time, an updated version of the Snipping Tool has appeared in the new builds of Windows 11 for Insiders. It is now capable of automatically recognizing QR codes in screenshots, allowing users to easily open links from their PC.
In addition, Emoji support has been added to the Snipping Tool. Users will be able to add Microsoft's 3D emoji to their screenshots through the Shapes toolbar. Inserted emoji can be freely edited and moved on top of the photo.
In terms of the Shape Toolbar itself, Microsoft has added the ability to adjust the opacity of a shape's fill and outline color. There will also be a ruler tool activated by CTRL + R.
AI Image Generator
Finally, Microsoft has updated the name of its AI-powered image generation feature. It will now be called Image Creator, but will work the same as before, allowing you to create images from text prompts.
Glossary
- Microsoft is the largest multinational company developing proprietary software for various computing devices.
- Windows 11 is the current version of the operating system from Microsoft for personal computers and laptops.
- Windows Insider is a program from Microsoft that allows users to get early access to test builds of Windows for feedback.
- Snipping Tool is a built-in tool in Windows for taking screenshots.
- QR code is a matrix barcode for encoding information, readable by scanning equipment.
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What new features are included in the Windows 11 Start menu?
How can I customize Start Menu Companions in Windows 11?
What updates did the Snipping Tool get in Windows 11?
What improvements have been made to the Snipping Tool shape toolbar?
What happened to the Artificial Image Creation feature? intelligence in Windows 11?
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Discussion of the topic – New Windows 11 Start Menu with floating widgets and QR code recognition
Microsoft is testing a native update to the Windows 11 Start menu that adds a floating widget bar and QR code recognition to the Snipping app.
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Alicia
Hey guys! Have you read about the new Start menu in Windows 11? 🤔 I like the idea of widgets and additional information nearby. Very convenient, saves time 💻
Andrzej
Hello Alisha! Yes, I came across this news too 📰 I think this is a great way to make the Start menu more personalized and useful for each user 👍
Manfred
But I doubt the need for this feature 🤨 Why clutter your workspace with unnecessary widgets? In my opinion, everything is becoming more and more complicated...
Sofía
Manfred, but this is an optional function :) If you don’t like it, don’t use it. And for those who are comfortable, there will be an additional advantage to productivity 📈
Pietro
It's funny that Microsoft also updated the Snipping Tool 📸 Now it can recognize QR codes and work with emoji. I often take screenshots, it will be useful 👌
Manfred
In my opinion, all these new features are just unnecessary features 😒 They are always changing and improving something, but what’s the point... They would leave everything as it is!
Nataliya
Manfred, but progress does not stand still 🚀 I recently tried Image Creator based on AI - a very cool thing for creativity! 🎨 So updates are good
Alicia
Yes, Natalia is right 👍 I also like the new features of Windows. Life becomes easier and more interesting every day 🤗