A must-see for Windows 11 beginners. 8 latest features you should try right now

After years of developer and beta testing, Microsoft has released the stable version of Windows 11.

Some of you may have updated to Windows 11 now that it is generally available. In that case, it will take some time to get used to Windows 11.

Windows 11 has a lot of new features that you might not notice right away.

So, I've picked a few tips to help you get to know Windows 11 better. Here are some of the best new features in Windows 11 that you should try out.

Contents

1. Return to left-aligned "Start Menu"

2. Use "Snap Layout"

3. Customize "Widget"

4. Manage multiple desktops with "Task View"

5. Make chatting easier with Microsoft Teams

6. Improve concentration with "Focus Session"

7. Create your own sound with "sound mode"

8. Visualize "Battery Usage"

Try the latest features of Windows 11 today

1. Reverting to a Left Aligned Start Menu

The new Start Menu position may be somewhat unpleasant, especially if you are used to left aligned.

Although it's a nice change that Microsoft has made, there's probably a reason you don't like it.

Luckily, the Start Menu can be put back in place. Here's how:

1. Right-click Taskbar and click Taskbar Settings.
2. Click to expand the Taskbar Behavior settings.
3. Click the dropdown menu next to Taskbar Alignment and change it to Align Left.

When selected, the 'Taskbar' immediately moves to the left.

2. Take Advantage of 'Snap Layouts'

Window snapping has always been one of the best features of Windows.

Windows 11 improved this feature with the introduction of "snap layouts". Simply hover over the Maximize button to reveal different layouts ready for snapping. There are currently 6 different layouts available for selection.

You can also access Snap Layouts with the Win+Z shortcut.

After selecting the layout, you will be prompted to select another window to fill the remaining space. Once snapped, they will appear as a group in the Taskbar.

3. Customize your "widgets"

Gone are the days of seeing "live tiles" in Windows 10. Windows 11 comes with widgets.

As soon as you set up Windows 11, you will be able to access Widgets from the Taskbar.

Widgets give you quick information at a glance and even more options. Content like weather, news, sports, and photos from OneDrive are displayed based on your location.

You can also resize it, remove it, add widgets and make it whatever you want.

4. Manage Multiple Desktops with Task View

Did you notice the addition of the Task View button to the Taskbar?

Introduced a new desktop management system to create, arrange and manage multiple desktops. Hover over this icon to access multiple desktops.

Additionally, on laptops with Windows 11, it can be accessed by swiping up with three fingers on the trackpad.

You can rename any of the desktops and rearrange them to your liking. It is also possible if you want each desktop background to be different.

Windows 11's revamped desktop management system helps keep all your apps organized and more productive.

5. Chatting in Microsoft Teams Made Easy

Microsoft has made the decision to integrate its free chat and video calling app into Windows 11.

You can now start a chat or video call by simply clicking the chat icon in your taskbar. No need to install or open the Microsoft Teams app.

But there is a caveat. If they don't use Teams, you'll need to send them an invite to sign up.

If you have the Microsoft Teams app on your phone linked to the same account, chats can be synced to your mobile device.

6. Stay focused with 'Focus Sessions'

Microsoft's 'Focus Sessions' is one of the best features of Windows 11. This feature is similar to a concentration-enhancing app on your smartphone.

This session will help you stay focused and productive at work. "Focus Sessions" are found in the "Clock" app and are based on the Pomodoro Technique, allowing you to take small breaks after working long hours.

You can also set a timer to focus on your tasks and see your progress on the dashboard. Plus, you can integrate Microsoft To Do to manage your tasks, and integrate with Spotify to listen to your favorite songs during focus sessions.

7. Create Your Own Sounds with Sound Modes

Windows 11 gives you even more control over the sound coming out of your device.

You can combine left and right audio channels to change to mono audio. The mono audio option can be found in Settings → System → Sound.

You can also select the Audio Enhancement option, which includes a variety of audio enhancements such as bass boost, equalizer, and surround sound.

Go to Settings -> System -> Sound and select "All Sound Devices" in the "Advanced" tab. Next, open the "Properties" menu of your device and enable "Audio Extensions".

8. Visualize "Battery Usage"

On Windows 10 and earlier, you may have struggled to understand your laptop or tablet's battery performance. . Luckily, Windows 11 gives you a better visualization of your battery usage.

To access this feature, go to Settings > System > Power & Battery and select the Battery Usage tab.

New battery stats show battery level graphs based on usage. In addition, it shows screen on/off time and idle time.

Similarly, you can check the battery usage status of all apps. If you think a program is draining your battery, you can stop its background processes.

Try the latest features of Windows 11 now

So far, I've introduced some of the cool features I found while researching Windows 11.

Windows 11 will eventually support Android apps, but until then you can try and enjoy these features. Windows 11 has a lot of features, but what we introduced this time is the one that we found most interesting.

However, Windows 11 is still a new OS and it will take some time to weed out the bugs and implement this new design language. You can expect further changes and improvements over time.

Image: Shutterstock / Original Article: New to Windows 11? 8 Amazing Features You Need to Try by MakeUseOf