Microsoft is introducing a substantial Windows 11 update with an expanded Start menu and numerous AI features, marking one of the most significant user experience changes since the operating system’s introduction. These enhancements will initially debut on Snapdragon X Copilot Plus PCs like the new Surface devices before rolling out more broadly, aiming to make Windows more intuitive and useful through seamless AI integration across the system’s core functions.
The big picture: Microsoft is reimagining the Windows 11 Start menu with a more spacious design and enhanced functionality while simultaneously infusing AI capabilities throughout the operating system.
- The revamped Start menu features improved scrolling for all apps view with category organization and a new phone companion panel providing quick access to smartphone functions.
- Microsoft explicitly states these AI features are designed to “make our experiences more intuitive, more accessible, and ultimately more useful.”
Key AI integrations: Windows 11 is gaining an extensive array of AI capabilities spanning system settings, productivity apps, and accessibility features.
- An AI agent embedded in Windows settings will help users adjust system configurations and troubleshoot problems, with transparent warnings that “Recommendations are AI-generated and may be incorrect.”
- The update introduces expanded Click to Do actions for text and images, AI writing functions in Notepad, and AI actions within File Explorer.
Enhanced creative tools: Microsoft is adding significant AI-powered editing capabilities to several native Windows applications.
- The Photos app will feature a new “Relight” function that allows adding up to three positional light sources to images.
- Paint is receiving content-aware selection, generative fill capabilities, and the ability to create digital stickers from text prompts.
- The Snipping Tool will get a “Perfect Screenshot” feature that automatically crops to prominent content, plus text extraction and color sampling tools.
Rollout timeline: The features will arrive first on Arm-based Snapdragon X systems before reaching x86 Copilot Plus PCs.
- Windows on Arm users with Snapdragon X chips will be the first to receive these updates.
- Intel and AMD-based Copilot Plus PC owners will gain access to the new features shortly afterward.
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