Discover the latest advancements in the Windows 11 ecosystem, where innovation knows no bounds. Windows Insiders rejoice as the boundaries blur between smartphone capabilities and PC functionality, with the integration of high-quality smartphone cameras as webcams.
Simultaneously, a groundbreaking update unleashes the power of AI within Copilot, alongside enhancements to widgets and more, ushering in a new era of seamless computing experiences.
Windows Insiders can Now Use High-Quality Smartphone Cameras as Webcams on Windows 11
Microsoft is rolling out a feature that lets users transform their Android phone or tablet into a webcam for any video application on a Windows 11 PC.
This means users can now avoide webcams and enjoy the high quality of a phone’s camera on their computer, all wirelessly and with add flexibility.
Imagine using your phone’s camera for video calls, conferences, or even streaming, with the freedom to switch between the front and back cameras for the perfect shot.
You can simply pause the video stream from your PC and resume when you’re ready.
You can even leverage the special effects offer by your phone’s camera, adding a touch of fun to your video interactions.
To get start, ensure your Android phone or tablet runs Android 9.0 or later and has the Link to Windows app version 1.24012 or higher install.
How to connect your phone as a webcam?
- Go to Settings
- Now find Bluetooth & devices
- Then go to Mobile devices
- Choose “Manage devices”
- Grant your PC access to your phone.
- Your PC will then receive a necessary update from the Microsoft Store.
Microsoft is also encouraging users to share their feedback.
Although there are many third-party apps that achieve the same end result, getting this feature integrate into Windows is a game-changer when it comes to convenience and speed.
Windows 11 Update Brings New AI Capabilities to Copilot, Improvements to Widgets, More
Windows 11 has receive a new update for March 2024 that will bring new features and major improvements to supported PCs, laptops, and workstations.
Microsoft announce the long list of features and said that the update has start rolling out to users.
But, not all the features will be available immediately, with the new Copilot features coming later this month.
Some of the notable features include improvements to Widgets, new skills for the artificial intelligence (AI)-power chatbot Copilot, and new features for multiple apps.
In a Windows blog, Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President, Consumer Chief Marketing Officer at Microsoft highlight that the Copilot features build on the introduction of the Copilot key on the keyboards powering Windows PCs from earlier this year.
Yusuf Mehdi also said that Snap, Widgets, and Inking are receiving major upgrades.
Copilot is getting new plugins that will enable it to perform tasks such as making restaurant reservations via OpenTable and grocery ordering via Instacart.
In the coming months, support for Shopify, Klarna and Kayak will also be added.
Apart from plugins, Copilot can also do more tasks.
By just typing a prompt users can make it turn on the battery saver, launch the narrator, empty the recycle bin, launch the screen magnifier, show available Wi-Fi networks, and more.
These features will be come in late March 2024.
Windows 11 will also bring new AI upgrades for creativity apps.
Generative Erase is being introduce to the Photos app which can remove unwanted objects or imperfections from images.
This feature similar to how the AI feature in Samsung Galaxy S24 series and Google Pixel 8 series.
Another improvement is coming to ClipChamp which will now be able to remove awkward silences in audio tracks.
Improvements are also coming to Widgets and the Snap layout feature.
Users will have more control over Widgets and can create their own board based on their preferences.
Snap is also getting smarter and will remember user preference for apps, and will quickly organise it accordingly.
Finally, an accessibility feature is also being add.
Users can now create custom tasks and add Voice Shortcuts for them, enabling more efficient verbal commands.
Some of these tasks include pasting text and media, pressing keyboard keys or mouse clicks, opening folders, files, apps or URLs, and many more.
