Microsoft outlines upcoming accessibility features set to debut on Windows 11

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Microsoft outlines upcoming accessibility features set to debut on Windows 11

Microsoft is gearing up to launch the Windows 11 22H2 RTM edition later this month, and as everything approaches general availability, the company continues to outline 4 new accessibility features accompanying the final update.

These new accessibility features include: Windows Focus, Live Captions, Voice Access, and Windows Narrator.

Microsoft outlines upcoming accessibility features set to debut on Windows 11

1. Windows Focus

'Windows Focus' merges features from 'Focus Assist' and 'Do Not Disturb

' found in previous Windows versions. It's now integrated into the Action Center and can be activated with a click. Once activated, Windows hides notifications to help users concentrate on their tasks.

Additionally, Microsoft has integrated the Focus Sessions feature into the Action Center. This feature allows users to easily schedule 'work' appointments to activate Focus Mode for specific periods. When Focus Sessions are activated, the system switches to Do Not Disturb mode and displays icons on the Taskbar to reduce distractions.

Windows 11 is the latest operating system, with many users automatically upgrading to Win 11 and others installing Windows 11 from ISO files.

Read more: How to Install Windows 11

2. Live Captions

Microsoft's new Live Captions feature, originally available on Android, is a system-wide captioning tool. It analyzes audio from any source and displays text when it recognizes spoken words.

Users can customize this feature, placing it anywhere on the screen and adjusting text size, font, text opacity, and caption background. Additionally, these live captions are analyzed and displayed locally, meaning they do not require an internet connection to function (once initial setup is complete).

3. Voice Access

The new Voice Access feature on Windows 11 performs better than the Speech Recognition tool on previous Windows versions, allowing users to control and interact with the system solely through voice commands instead of using a mouse and keyboard.

Once activated, users can request Windows to perform tasks such as opening the Start menu or switching to the Edge browser, and interact more deeply with applications using common commands like Scroll Down, ... .

4. Windows Narrator

After listening to user feedback on the Narrator experience, Microsoft is finally rolling out and adding natural voices to this feature, enhancing the experience for visually impaired users.

Similar to the Voice Access feature, the natural voice in Narrator supports American English.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new accessibility features included in Windows 11 22H2 RTM?

Windows 11 22H2 RTM introduces four new accessibility features: Windows Focus, Live Captions, Voice Access, and Windows Narrator. These enhancements aim to improve user experience by helping individuals concentrate, access audio content, interact via voice commands, and enhance narration for visually impaired users.

How does the Windows Focus feature help users concentrate better?

Windows Focus combines elements of Focus Assist and Do Not Disturb. It allows users to hide notifications while working, enabling better concentration on tasks. Users can also schedule Focus Sessions to activate this mode during specific periods, minimizing distractions effectively.

Can Live Captions in Windows 11 function without an internet connection?

Yes, Live Captions in Windows 11 operate without an internet connection once the initial setup is complete. This feature analyzes audio from any source, displaying text for recognized speech, which enhances accessibility for users in various environments.

What improvements does Voice Access offer over previous Speech Recognition tools?

Voice Access significantly enhances the user experience by allowing full control of Windows 11 through voice commands. Unlike previous Speech Recognition tools, it enables users to perform a wide range of tasks, from opening applications to navigating content, without needing a mouse or keyboard.