Microsoft has released a new update for Windows 11 that introduces a number of features and fixes. Those enrolled in the Windows Insider program have had access to these features since the end of February 2024, but this update now brings them to all Windows 11 users. This is a mandatory update as it is part of the April Cumulative Update.
Along with tons of security fixes and updates, several key features have been updated. Here’s everything that’s new with the Windows 11 ‘Moment 5’ update.
Voice access
You can now use voice access features across multiple screens in Windows 11 — including number overlays and grids. If you’re using a grid layer on a screen, you can now quickly switch to another screen. In the past, you could only do this on the primary screen. In addition, you can also use the “mouse grid” command to quickly move the mouse to a specific point on the screen. Finally, you can now use drag and drop to move files, apps, and documents from one screen to another.
This update also introduces voice shortcuts or custom commands. You can use them to create your own commands in supported English dialects. The “show voice shortcuts” command opens the Voice Shortcuts page where you can create new shortcuts. You can see all the voice shortcuts you’ve created by going to the command help page or using the “show voice shortcuts” voice command.
Narrator
Narrator now has ten natural voices that you can preview before downloading. Voices use text-to-speech on your device, and once you download them, they’ll work offline. However, you will still need an internet connection to view the votes.
The Narrator update improves the detection of text in images (including handwriting) and improves image description. Narrator will now announce bookmarks and sketches in Microsoft Word if it detects them. You can also now use voice access to open apps, dictate text, and interact with on-screen elements. And if you want, you can use your voice to command the Narrator if, for example, you want it to speak faster or read the next line.
Windows sharing
The way applications appear in the Windows sharing window has changed with this update. Depending on which account you’re signed in to, you’ll see different apps in the “Share Using” section. This could be useful if, for example, you’re switching from a business Microsoft account to a personal account and vice versa.
Another neat feature is that you can now share on WhatsApp under the “Share Using” section. If you use WhatsApp, this could be very useful.
Nearby sharing
Nearby sharing allows you to wirelessly share files with other devices. Microsoft has improved the transfer speed feature for faster file transfer. This feature now works on public or private networks, whereas before it only worked on private networks.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are now automatically turned on if you enable nearby sharing in settings — even if you’ve turned them off. You can also give your device a different name to identify it when sharing.
Casting
Casting allows you to wirelessly send content from your device’s screen to a nearby computer, TV, or other external display. This feature has been updated to make your device more visible. The Cast flyout menu in Quick Settings also helps you find multiple devices nearby to cast to, fix connections, and more.
Snap schedules
Snap layouts is a handy feature that lets you quickly snap apps and windows to your desktop in a layout of your choice. This latest Windows update adds new suggested layouts, which may be useful if you feel limited by the choices previously available.
Windows 11 ‘Moment 5’ update: Outlook
A few minor updates are now available, so be sure to check out Microsoft’s support page for more information. Windows update KB5036893 is now available for all Windows users. To install it, search for “Windows Update” in the desktop search bar and install the update.