Windows 11 model 22H2, the primary characteristic replace to Windows 11 since its introduction in October 2021, is predicted to be formally launched someday this fall, probably in October. (The “22” stands for the 12 months 2022, and “H2” means it’s being launched within the second half of the 12 months.) Microsoft has already issued a model of it to the Release Preview Channel of the Windows 11 Insider Program; Build 22621 is predicted to be near the ultimate model, if not the ultimate one.When 22H2 will get its closing launch, we’ll give it a full-blown overview. However, in order for you a sneak peek, we’ve regarded on the model within the Release Preview Channel, in addition to some options launched in later builds launched to the Beta and Dev Channels that may make it into the ultimate launch. Based on that, here’s what you’ll be able to anticipate when the official model hits.New Task ManagerAnybody who fiddles with their system to do issues like verify reminiscence utilization or disable packages that run on startup will discover a revamped Task Manager. Rather than tabs throughout the highest for processes, efficiency, startup apps, and so forth, you’ll discover them as icons working vertically down the left column. Icons are bigger, there’s extra space between the listings (that are additionally bigger), and there’s a brand new darkish mode as properly. You can even now run new duties akin to opening a folder or working a program straight from Task Manager. IDG
Here’s Task Manager’s new look. (Click picture to enlarge it.)
Start Menu tweaksIn this replace, Microsoft continues to fiddle with the Start menu. You can create app folders to prepare your apps, the best way you used to in Windows 10, and you’ll regulate the dimensions of the pinned apps part. There’s additionally a complete new part in Settings for personalizing the Start menu, together with tweaking what number of pinned gadgets to show on it. IDG
You’ll get loads of new choices for customizing the Start menu in Windows 11 22H2. (Click picture to enlarge it.)
Drag and drop to the taskbarIn model 22H2, Microsoft is bringing again one other characteristic it killed off within the preliminary Windows 11 launch — drag and drop to the taskbar. You can drag a file onto an app icon on the taskbar, and the file will open within the utility, simply as in Windows 10.Settings adjustmentsWith each new characteristic model of Windows, Microsoft fiddles with the Settings menu, and it’s no totally different this time round. The Accounts web page will get a severe facelift, providing a shocking quantity of data at a look. In addition to call, e mail, and so forth, you’ll discover data akin to whether or not you’ve got Microsoft 365 put in, and in that case, what model and the way a lot you’re paying for it. There’s additionally a list of who you’re sharing recordsdata with, how a lot OneDrive storage you’ve paid for, and the way a lot you’ve used. IDG
The revamped Accounts web page consists of details about your Microsoft 365 subscription you probably have one. (Click picture to enlarge it.)
There are a wide range of different tweaks all through Settings, together with the power to show off the System Tray overflow menu, have Bing present you a special picture day-after-day as your desktop wallpaper, and others.File Explorer faceliftFile Explorer will get a brand new look in Windows 11 22H2, together with a cleaner-looking, extra helpful left navigation pane that allows you to get to often used folders and pinned folders. On the higher proper there’s an icon for OneDrive that when clicked exhibits you its sync standing, whole capability, whole house used, and fast entry to settings and choices for managing storage. You solely see that icon should you’re at present viewing a OneDrive folder. If you dig deeply sufficient in File Explorer choices, you’ll be able to have it present OneDrive as your default folder so that you simply’ll open to it everytime you launch File Explorer. There’s additionally a risk that File Explorer will get tabs. IDG
Here’s what you’ll be able to anticipate from the brand new model of File Explorer. (Click picture to enlarge it.)
New apps: Clipchamp and Family SafetyThere are additionally two new apps in 22H2: Clipchamp and Family Safety. Clipchamp is a free, fundamental video editor. There will likely be a for-pay model, probably accessible for $19 a month, if you wish to work with movies in 1080p resolutions. IDG
Windows 11 22H2 will ship with the brand new, free video editor Clipchamp. (Click picture to enlarge it.)
Family Safety works in live performance with Windows gadgets, Xbox PCs, and Android gadgets with the software program put in to indicate the places of youngsters. It additionally has a number of different options together with a shared household calendar.New touchscreen gesturesIf you’ve got a touchscreen gadget, you get a number of new gestures. You can swipe as much as get to the Start menu and use a three-finger swipe to reduce your apps. Swipe from the fitting to get to Quick settings and use a three-finger swipe to the left or proper to change between working apps. Other tweaksThere are a bunch of further minor tweaks coming all through the working system. One such tweak is to the Snap Layouts characteristic, which helps you to group your open home windows into one in every of a half-dozen pre-built display layouts. In the replace to Windows 11, you’ll be capable of drag a window to the highest of the display after which drop it right into a snap structure. In addition, Task View (Windows key + Tab) will present your Snap Groups so you’ll be able to simply swap between them. IDG
The new Snap Layouts in motion. (Click picture to enlarge it.)
A couple of tweaks could make it easier to cut back carbon emissions. Depending upon the place you reside, you may even see “Windows Update is committed to helping reduce carbon emissions” message on the Windows Update web page. If you do, Windows will try and schedule updates at instances which will cut back carbon emissions — for instance, when photo voltaic or hydro energy is used extra by your utility firm. Similarly, there will likely be energy settings which are aimed toward decreasing carbon emissions.Sys admins gained’t be forgotten within the Windows 11 replace. They will likely be getting new group insurance policies for controlling the Start menu, taskbar, and system tray for his or her customers.
Copyright © 2022 IDG Communications, Inc.