Microsoft has announced the release of the “Moment 5” update for Windows 11, applicable to the 23H2 and 22H2 versions, introducing an array of new functionalities including enhancements to Windows Copilot through skills and plugins, Voice Access, AI-powered features for ClipChamp and Photos, along with improvements to Narrator.
The deployment of Moment 5 commences today for those who have activated the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option in their Windows update settings. By enabling this feature and selecting ‘Check for updates,’ users can access a Windows Configuration update that activates these enhancements within the operating system.
This approach aligns with Microsoft’s strategy of continuous innovation, allowing the company to launch new features incrementally, as opposed to the traditional method of bundled feature updates. This strategy enables quicker, more frequent releases throughout the year.
Users who opt out of installing the update immediately will see the new features included in the optional non-security preview update in March, and subsequently for all users in the April 2024 Patch Tuesday security updates.
Highlights of the Moment 5 update for Windows 11 23H2 include major enhancements to Microsoft Copilot, introducing plugins for third-party services like OpenTable and Instacart for convenient dinner reservations and food orders. Future plugins will include Shopify, Klarna, and Kayak. Additionally, Copilot will introduce new skills for quick access to various settings, device information, and accessibility features.
AI improvements in ClipChamp and Photos will simplify photo and video editing, with features like Generative Erase for removing unwanted elements from images and a new ClipChamp function to eliminate silence gaps in videos.
The update also brings significant accessibility improvements, including Voice Access for controlling Windows 11 with voice commands and enhanced Narrator functionality for better text in images detection and easier navigation between images.
Windows Autopatch merges with Windows Update for Business, streamlining the update process for enterprises through a single service that uses machine learning to manage patches.
Additionally, the update enhances Windows Share to support more applications, improves Nearby share with faster transfer speeds, introduces intelligent Snap suggestions for window arrangement, updates the Widgets experience for better customization, and improves the casting experience. Enterprise features like Windows 365 Boot and Windows 365 Switch have been improved for a more seamless Cloud PC integration.
Not all features will be available immediately, with some rolling out in the coming month, as Microsoft continues to incorporate user feedback into its updates.