Today, Microsoft unveiled the “next wave of Windows experiences” for Windows 11, featuring a redesigned Start menu, a built-in AI agent, and a range of new AI-powered tools. The updated Start menu, which first appeared in Insider builds last month, is officially on its way to all Windows 11 users in the coming months.
The new design makes the Start menu wider and taller, introducing a single-page layout with scrollable apps. It adds app categories, removes the recommendations section, and includes integration with the Phone Link flyout companion. Microsoft says the rollout will begin with Windows Insiders in the coming months.
An AI Agent for Windows 11
In addition, Windows 11 is officially getting an AI agent. That’s right an actual AI assistant built into the system. The AI agent will operate within Windows Settings to understand your intent and, with your permission, take appropriate actions. For instance, if you search for something like “mouse pointer is too small,” the AI agent will immediately suggest the correct steps and let you apply the fix with a single click.
Microsoft explains that the Windows AI agent is powered by on-device AI, allowing it to process user queries and automate actions locally without relying on the cloud. The AI agent will first roll out to Windows Insiders using Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, such as the newly launched compact Surface devices. It will later expand to Copilot+ PCs running on AMD and Intel chips.
New AI Features Coming to Windows 11
In addition to the AI agent, Windows 11 is receiving a wave of new AI features. The AI-powered Click to Do feature is expanding with a variety of new “actions” accessible via the “Ask Copilot” button. Users will be able to interact with text or images, draft content in Microsoft Word, use Reading Coach to read text aloud, and even schedule meetings all powered by AI.
You’ll also be able to “send the details of a table on screen directly to Microsoft Excel,” which will save both time and effort. What’s particularly interesting is that File Explorer is receiving AI-driven actions. You’ll be able to right-click on files to quickly summarize content or even edit images. Additionally, Microsoft is enhancing the AI-powered search feature on Windows 11, with improved, descriptive search functionality coming to the Microsoft Store and Photos app.
Speaking of the Photos app, it’s introducing a new Relight feature that allows users to add up to three adjustable light sources to enhance images. The Paint app is also getting an upgrade with a content-aware selection tool powered by AI, enabling users to erase, move, and fill elements seamlessly. Additionally, users will be able to create digital stickers directly from a text prompt in MS Paint.
Next, the Snipping Tool on Windows 11 is gaining a “Perfect Screenshot” feature that automatically crops the key content on the screen. The Notepad app is also getting some exciting updates, making it easier to generate, organize, and format content. Users will be able to generate text from prompts, summarize complex content, and more.
Finally, Copilot Vision will soon be widely available, allowing users to share a browser or app window with Copilot for real-time interaction. These new AI features will initially be available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs running Windows Insider builds.
