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Microsoft is experimenting with a new audio control feature in Windows 11 which allows users to control the volume of various apps in Quick Settings.
Volume Mixer, as it is known, is currently available in Preview 25281 (opens in new tab) from the Dev Channel in the Windows 11 Insider Program. It’s being compared to software like Discord and ear trumpet due to similar capabilities of adjusting volume levels for different audio sources. For example, you can keep the volume on a Skype call loud while muting the music playing on Spotify and have WhatsApp somewhere in the middle for notifications. It’s a level of management not currently seen, as Windows 11 only offers universal tweaks. Users typically use third-party apps like EarTrumpet to gain this level of control.
What’s most interesting, though, is that Microsoft didn’t mention Volume Mixer in the Preview Build announcement. It was only discovered after users dug through the build files and found the hidden feature. I hope the tool becomes a reality, as being able to individually adjust the volume in each app would be fantastic. Windows 11 needs a better audio tool.
We say “hopefully” because this is an experimental feature and there’s no guarantee it will be released. As stated in a 2022 Windows Insider Program post, some “concepts will never be released…” It’s possible that Microsoft will take the Volume Mixer back to the drawing board to improve it, but at this point, who knows?
New features and a redesign
As for what was actually revealed in Preview Build 25281, Windows Spotlight is getting a little overhaul. The interface will display more detailed information about an image, such as the subject name and a short description. Developers are also experimenting with different methods of exchanging images; as to whether or not it should be a “full screen experience”. Adjusting graphics settings will be easier to do, according to Microsoft. Certain settings, such as GPU Preference, will now display front and center in the Graphics section of the Settings menu.
In addition, the Notepad app now supports multiple tabs so users can manage multiple files in one window. Similar to browsers, you can drag one of the guides (opens in new tab) to be its own instance. And there’s a new Notepad setting that lets users decide “whether files open in new tabs or a new window by default”.
Other new features of Notepad include additional keyboard shortcuts and the app’s ability to automatically create file/tab names based on the content present. The Notepad update appears to be separate from Preview Build 25281, so you’ll have to download both.
Microsoft is hard at work paving the way for Windows 11 to eventually take over as the company’s only supported operating system. beyond 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 31st.
Be sure to check out TechRadar’s guide on how to upgrade to windows 11if you’re thinking of finally taking the plunge.
