Microsoft hides cool experimental audio control tool in Windows 11 preview build
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Microsoft is currently experimenting with a new audio control feature Windows 11 which allows users to control the volume of multiple apps through Quick Settings.
Volume Mixer, as it is known, is currently available in Example of build 25281 (opens in new tab) from the Dev Channel on the Windows 11 Insider Program. It is compared to software like Discord and EarTrumpet due to similar volume level adjustment capabilities 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 in between for notifications. It’s a level of management not currently seen as Windows 11 currently only offers universal customizations. Users usually use third-party apps like EarTrumpet to get this level of control.
What is most interesting, however, is that Microsoft made no mention of Volume Mixer in the Preview Build announcement. It was only discovered after users dug into the build files and found the hidden feature. Hopefully the tool will become a reality, as it would be fantastic to be able to individually adjust the volume of each app. Windows 11 needs a better audio tool.
We say “hopefully” because this is an experimental feature and there’s no guarantee it will ever be released. As stated in a Post from the Windows Insider Program as of 2022, some “drafts 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 a redesign
As for what was actually revealed in Preview Build 25281, Windows Spotlight is getting a minor redesign. The interface displays more detailed information about an image, such as the topic name and a brief description. The developers are also experimenting with different methods of switching images; like whether or not it should be a “full screen experience.” Adjusting graphics settings will become easier according to Microsoft. Certain configurations, such as GPU preferences, are now front and center in the Graphics section of the Settings menu.
In addition, the Notepad app now supports multiple tabs allowing users to manage multiple files in one window. Just like with browsers, you can drag one of the tabs (opens in new tab) out to be its own copy. 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 Notepad features include additional keyboard shortcuts and the ability for the app 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 need 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. Next to 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.
Be sure to check out the TechRadar guide at how to upgrade to windows 11if you’re thinking about finally taking the plunge.