Microsoft is introducing a wide range of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to Windows 11 as part of its latest update. These new features, some of which are exclusive to Copilot Plus PCs, aim to enhance productivity and simplify everyday computing tasks. The update, currently being rolled out in phases, includes tools for both general Windows 11 users and those with Snapdragon-powered devices.
Copilot Vision and AI-driven help are now available
One of the key features in the update is Copilot Vision, now accessible to all Windows 11 users through the Copilot app. This tool uses AI to analyse content displayed on the screen and allows users to ask questions aloud about anything visible across multiple apps or webpages. It can also guide users through tasks on their computer, such as adjusting the lighting in a photo. Microsoft had previously tested a more limited version of this functionality last year.
Meanwhile, users of Copilot Plus PCs equipped with Snapdragon processors are gaining additional support through a new AI-powered agent embedded in the Settings app. This feature allows users to search for settings using natural language commands, such as “I want to enable quiet hours” or “connect Bluetooth device.” If the AI agent recognises the request, it can carry out the task directly, offering a more seamless experience.
More tools for Copilot Plus PCs
The update also improves the AI-driven “Click to Do” preview on Copilot Plus PCs. Activated by holding down the Windows key and left-clicking on an item—whether it’s an app, text, website, or other content—Click to Do helps users quickly perform actions such as summarising a selected paragraph.
Microsoft is expanding the range of actions available through Click to Do. New capabilities include practising reading fluency and pronunciation using the Reading Coach tool, generating a document draft in Microsoft Word through Copilot, and scheduling a meeting in Microsoft Teams. These features are designed to support both learning and productivity.
Additionally, Paint is receiving a new AI-powered sticker generator and an object selection tool, allowing users to separate and edit individual parts of an image with greater precision. The Photos app on Copilot Plus PCs will now include an AI-based lighting option to automatically enhance image quality. The Snipping Tool is also gaining a “perfect screenshot” feature, which uses AI to capture content on screen more accurately.
General improvements and availability
While many of the AI enhancements are limited to Copilot Plus devices, Microsoft is also releasing several features for all Windows 11 users. These include a convenient colour picker tool within the Snipping Tool and a new system mechanism that can automatically detect and resolve problems causing unexpected PC restarts.
Microsoft stated that all of these updates will be deployed “over the next month.” Some features are already available through Windows’ latest non-security preview update, while others can be accessed via updates in the Microsoft Store.
