Microsoft is rolling out a new Windows 11 preview to members of the Windows Insider Program. While there are general improvements, one standout change is new abilities for Voice Access. Microsoft says the feature is now more efficient and works better when using a touch keyboard.
The Voice Access update is part of Windows 11 Preview build 22538, which is available on the Dev Channel.
On the touch keypad, Microsoft has added tear drop number icons on top of the letter keys. The company says this allows users to access certain operations more easily:
- Spell words e.g., names and email addresses.
- Enter numbers e.g., phone numbers and addresses.
- Enter punctuation marks and symbols.
- Enter emojis.
Microsoft admits the commands available through the touch keyboard are small but will be expending in the future. Users can also still use their voice to issue on and off commands in Windows 11:
- “Voice access on/ off commands e.g., “voice access wake up”, “voice access sleep”, “turn off microphone”, “turn off voice access”.
- Commands to use touch keyboard e.g., “hide keyboard,” “click 2”.”
Voice Access
Voice Access for Windows 11 remains a feature in its infancy. It made its debut on the platform in December 2021 and is still only available in preview to Insiders.
It is a new addition for the Voice Typing feature on Windows 11. If you are unfamiliar, Voice Typing launched with Windows 11, allowing users to dictate words onto the platform.
Voice Access is a new component that extends the capabilities. Specifically, users can now use their voice for commands on the OS and control devices too. For example, enter text and numbers into apps or to control aspects of Windows 11. Users can open apps, select buttons, and choose menu items.
Tip of the day: Did you know that as a Windows 10 admin you can restrict user accounts by disabling settings or the control panel? Our tutorial shows how to disable and enable them via Group Policy and the registry.
Source Winbuzzer
