Are you excited about Windows 11 getting even better? Windows 11 has already brought us a host of fantastic features, but there’s more in store. Microsoft has announced some pretty big improvements to their Snipping Tool, Phone Link, and Photos apps.
Baked into Windows by default, these apps were welcome additions for productivity in ways that we all use. They were, however, just okay. Nothing great to write home about. That’s changing right now, and the updates that Microsoft has planned are in beta and rolling out soon.
Here’s what you can expect from the new, upgraded Snipping Tool, Phone Link, and Photos apps.
Let’s begin with the Snipping Tool. This unassuming screenshot tool has been quietly serving us for years, capturing our screens one snip at a time.
Text Actions
But now, with the introduction of “Text Actions,” it’s about to become a game-changer. Text Actions is an OCR (optical character recognition) software baked into the new Snipping Tool. This means it can read the text from a photo. You can now effortlessly copy and paste text directly from a screenshot, eliminating the need to painstakingly type information from an image. I bet this one addition is going to make the biggest impact for the most people.
Quick Redact
Microsoft is also introducing a “Quick Redact” function. This allows you to easily conceal sensitive information right within the screenshot. No more awkwardly scribbling over confidential data with a digital marker. Again, this brings big impacts that make our lives easier.
Photo Notification
Thanks to Windows 11’s Phone Link integration, your Android devices and PC will become the best of friends, simplifying syncing. With the latest update, once you take a picture on your phone your PC will display a message that a new photo is available. This makes grabbing it on your PC for editing super simple.
Background Blur
Which brings us to the Photos app updates. In response to user feedback, the Photos app is receiving a makeover, complete with a brand-new “Background Blur” option.
Need to make your subject stand out by blurring the background? No problem. Want to control the intensity of the blur or select specific areas to blur? They’ve got you covered.
Content Search
What about photos stored in your OneDrive? Microsoft is introducing “Content Search” for easy searching across photos stored in your OneDrive. Ever had trouble finding a photo you know you have? Now it’s easy.
Microsoft’s intelligent image detection software will scan and tag your photos with searchable tags. This lets you search for whatever you want by content, be it an object, an event, or a location. Plus, you can search for photos based on location across local files, OneDrive, and even Apple’s iCloud, catering to iPhone users as well.
Other Features
There are some additional features coming as well, like motion photo support for content from Samsung and Google devices as well as touch support for slideshows.
We understand that some may still be disappointed about changes made to the Windows 10 Photos app, especially the removal of the Video Editor feature. However, there’s a glimmer of hope in Microsoft’s announcement, hinting that “Edit and Create Video” options are now easily accessible at the top of the gallery view. This suggests that video editing functions may be making a return. We’ll eagerly await more details on that front.
As we anticipate the rollout of these updates, one thing is certain: Microsoft is constantly striving to make our lives easier, one update at a time. This is exciting news, and as a business owner, you should be thrilled too. After all, who doesn’t appreciate a great upgrade?
If you’re looking to get started with Windows 11 or need assistance in maximizing its productivity features for your team, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.