Windows 11 update introduces AI-Powered Bing to the taskbar and Phone Link for iOS

• Windows 11 update introduces AI-powered Bing to the taskbar, allowing users to find information without opening individual search results.
• Phone Link app now supports Apple iPhones, letting users control and access their phones from their Windows PC.
• Below, check out the top updates introduced to Windows 11.

Microsoft has launched a new update for Windows 11, dubbed as Windows 11 Moment 2 update, which introduces features such as an AI-powered Bing search engine, third-party widgets, a new screen recorder, and more. The update is currently available as an optional download and is expected to become widely available in March as part of the mandatory ‘Patch Tuesday’ update package. Here are some notable features included in the Windows 11 Moment 2 update.

Windows 11 welcomes AI-powered Bing to its platform

Following the integration of OpenAI's language model with Bing search, it was expected that Microsoft would eventually bring these features to Windows. With the release of the Windows 11 Moment 2 update, Bing has been integrated with the search functionality on Windows, allowing users to find information without opening individual search results. However, access to the new Bing is currently limited to a small group of users who must be accepted into the program. So, it may take some time before the new search experience is available on all Windows devices.

Phone Link App is now available for Apple iPhones

Microsoft's Phone Link app allows users to control and access their phones from their Windows PC. While previously only available for Android devices, iOS users can now access a preview version of the app through the Windows Insiders program. Currently, iPhone users can see their text messages and contacts and make calls from their PC. Still, additional features such as managing photos and replying to group conversations may be added in the future.

Third-party widget support

Users have long been requesting Microsoft to allow third-party app support on Windows 11. Finally, the company has listened to its users and opened the platform for third-party app developers to create widgets. While some popular apps like Spotify, Xbox, and Messenger have already developed widgets, the move is expected to attract more developers to create widgets for their apps now that all Windows developers can create widgets for their apps.

Snipping tool can now record screen as well

Microsoft has introduced a new screen recording feature in the Snipping Tool through its latest update. Until now, the feature was only available in the Xbox app, with limited capabilities, such as no support for desktop recording or minimized app recording. However, the updated Snipping Tool feature overcomes these limitations, making it an excellent tool for creating tutorials or sharing content with others.

Improved video calling experience

Microsoft's latest update allows users to enhance their video conferencing experience using advanced AI effects such as eye contact, background blur, automatic framing, and voice focus. The update also makes it easier to find and adjust Windows Studio Effects settings directly from the taskbar in quick settings, providing a more user-friendly experience.

Users with devices eligible to run Windows 11, version 22H2, can now access new features by navigating to the Windows Update settings (Settings > Windows Update) and selecting ‘Check for updates.’ Microsoft has also confirmed that these new features will be included in the monthly security update release scheduled for March 2023.

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