Windows 11 Insider Build 23493: Unveiling 6 Exciting Features and Improvements
Microsoft is back with another exciting update for Windows Insiders! They have released the highly anticipated Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23493 to the Dev Channel. The latest build comes with some fantastic new features and improvements that are sure to make your Windows experience even better.
Windows Copilot Preview:
One of the most talked-about features in this release is the Windows Copilot Preview. Introduced during the Build conference in May, Windows Copilot aims to enhance your user experience with Windows 11. In this flight, Microsoft is offering an early look at Windows Copilot to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel through a controlled feature rollout. Initially, this preview focuses on the integrated UI experience, with more functionalities planned for future previews.
To start using Windows Copilot, click on the new button on the taskbar or press WIN + C to launch it. The Copilot will work seamlessly with your open app windows, appearing as a side bar docked to the right of your screen. From here, you can ask Copilot a variety of questions or request it to take actions such as changing to dark mode, turning on do not disturb, taking a screenshot, and even summarizing a website you’re viewing in Microsoft Edge.
Please note that some features demonstrated during the Build conference are not available in this early preview. The current build includes a basic set of Windows settings plugins but lacks third-party plugin support. However, rest assured that more features will be added and refined based on feedback from Windows Insiders.
Introducing the new Settings homepage:
With Build 23493, Windows is also introducing a new Settings homepage that offers a dynamic and personalized experience. It provides a comprehensive overview of your device, quick access to essential settings, and better management of your Microsoft account.
The new homepage features interactive cards representing various device and account-related settings, grouped by commonly accessed functions. These cards are optimized to provide relevant information and controls at your fingertips. For example, the Recommended settings card adapts to your usage patterns, offering timely and relevant options to streamline your settings management.
Please note that this new Settings homepage is only available for Windows 11 Home and Pro editions and is not supported on devices managed by organizations.
Restore for more apps:
Windows 11 Build 23493 enhances the backup and restore functionality introduced earlier. With this update, support for restoring desktop apps, including those not installed from the Microsoft Store, has been extended. You’ll now find pins for these apps on your taskbar and Start Menu, making it easier to restore your favorite apps quickly.
Native support for reading additional archive file formats:
Additionally, Windows 11 now has native support for reading additional archive file formats using the libarchive open-source project. These formats include .tar, .tar.gz, .tar.bz2, .tar.zst, .tar.xz, .tgz, .tbz2, .tzst, .txz, .rar, .7z, and more. This update aims to provide a smoother and more efficient experience when working with archive files.
New volume mixer experience in Quick Settings:
Windows 11 Build 23493 brings an enhanced volume mixer to Quick Settings. The modern volume mixer allows for quick customization of audio on a per-app basis, making it easier to manage your favorite apps’ audio settings. Moreover, a new keyboard shortcut (WIN + CTRL + V) has been introduced to bring you directly to the volume mixer, providing faster access and control over your audio experience.
Narrator natural voices in Japanese and English (Great British):
Windows Insiders will be thrilled to know that Microsoft is introducing new natural voices in Japanese and English (Great British) for the Narrator feature. These natural voices offer a comfortable browsing
Reference – Microsoft