The latest Windows 11 preview update soon revealed three new operating system features. It includes Cloud PC integration in Task View, a dedicated settings hub for USB4 devices, and On-Demand In-Place Upgrades, a new way to perform in-place upgrades directly from Settings.
As you probably know, Microsoft is simultaneously working on new features for Windows 11 and the next generation of Windows. Windows 11 users can expect new features every month through cumulative updates. However, Windows 12 features will not be available in Windows 11 22H2 builds, and some may not even be included in the final release.
This article takes a look at the new Windows 11 features that are expected to ship in Fall 2023. The first major change we noticed in the preview builds is the “Cloud PC Task View” integration that can be enabled in the Settings app. When you enable this optional feature, you can access Cloud PC apps through the Win+Tab interface.
For those unaware, Cloud PC allows users to access a Windows desktop from any device and location. It uses Microsoft Azure to host virtual machines in the cloud and is part of Windows 365, which automatically creates and manages Cloud PCs for users.
Microsoft says the service provides benefits in terms of productivity, security, collaboration, cost efficiency and flexibility. In a future version of Windows 11, Microsoft is making it easier to access the feature by bringing it to the Task View interface.
On-demand in-place upgrade comes to Windows 11
When a repair solution is available, you can use the upcoming Windows 11 in-place upgrade feature to attempt to repair system component corruption by reinstalling the current version of Windows. Your apps, documents, and settings will be preserved.
However, Microsoft says the feature only works when the PC is on and connected to the network. After installation, you need to restart your PC to complete the repair.
Previously, the in-place feature was offered to users through the Windows Media Authoring Tool and worked the same way. Microsoft is bringing the same functionality to the Windows Settings app, making it easy to fix your install with an in-place upgrade option.
The third new feature is the “USB4 Hubs and Devices” page in Windows Settings.
As the name suggests, this page will let you manage your USB4 devices in one place with options like refresh, copy device info, and eject.
According to Microsoft documentation, a USB4 domain consists of a USB4 host router and attached USB4 device routers. It can also be viewed in Windows Device Manager, but a more user-friendly tool is now available in Windows Settings.
