Microsoft is currently experimenting with a new audio control feature Windows 11 which allows users to control the volume of many apps from Quick Settings.
The volume mixer, as you know, is currently available in Preview build 25281 (opens in a new tab) from Dev Channel on Windows 11 Insider. It is compared to software like Discord and Ear Trumpet due to the similar possibilities of adjusting the volume levels for different sound sources. For example, you can adjust the volume on a Skype call while muting the music playing on Spotify and having WhatsApp somewhere between notifications. This is a level of manageability that is currently not seen as Windows 11 currently only offers universal customizations. Users typically use third-party apps like EarTrumpet to get this level of control.
The most interesting thing, however, is that Microsoft did not mention Volume Mixer in the Preview Build announcement. It was discovered only after users dug through the build files and found a hidden feature. We hope the tool becomes a reality as being able to adjust the volume individually in each app would be fantastic. Windows 11 needs a better audio tool.
We say “hopefully” because this is an experimental feature and there is no guarantee it will ever be released. As stated in v Windows Insider Post as of 2022, some “concepts will never ship…” It’s possible that Microsoft will take Volume Mixer back to the drawing board to improve it, but at this point, who knows?
New features and redesign
As for what was actually revealed in Preview Build 25281, Windows Spotlight is undergoing a slight redesign. The interface will display more detailed information about the image, such as the subject name and short description. The creators are also experimenting with different methods of switching images; for example, should it be a “full screen experience”. According to Microsoft, adjusting graphics settings will be easier. Certain configurations, such as GPU preferences, will now be displayed front and center in the Graphics section of the Settings menu.
Additionally, The Notepad app now supports multiple tabs so users can manage multiple files in one window. Like browsers, you can swipe one of the cards (opens in a new tab) be your own case. There’s also a new Notepad setting that lets users decide “whether files open in new tabs or a new window by default.”
Other new Notepad features include additional keyboard shortcuts and the ability for the application to automatically create file/tab names based on the current content. The Notepad update appears to be separate from Preview Build 25281, so you’ll need to download both.
Microsoft is hard at work paving the way for Windows 11, which will eventually take over as the company’s only supported operating system. Except for the sunset Windows 7 and 8.1the company recently announced that it will no longer sell Windows 10 Home or Pro licenses on its website from January 31.
Safely check out TechRadar’s guide on how to upgrade to windows 11if you’re thinking of finally taking the plunge.