Microsoft has started public testing on a range of new Windows 11 features. They deal with a nagging display annoyance, the controversial Recall technology, and touchscreen interfaces.

The changes have been unveiled in the Dev Channel. That's one of four options for people who join the Windows Insider program and is the one where most new features roll out to the public for the first time. If something's in the Dev Channel, Microsoft usually intends to make it part of Windows but may withdraw it if the testing goes badly.

The most useful change for the average user is arguably a minor alteration. The volume, airplane mode and brightness indicators will no longer be fixed in the middle bottom of the screen. Some users have complained that gets in the way of apps.

Recall Gets 'Home Page'

Now users can put the indicators virtually anywhere, except the top right corner. The Verge notes that's likely because it could get in the may of key controls for individual apps and windows such as minimize and close. (Source: theverge.com)

There's also a change to Recall, the much-debated feature that takes regular screenshots and then analyses the contents to make it easier to search past activity. There will now be a default home page in the app that shows recent screenshots, along with screenshots of the three apps or website that the user accessed most often in the past 24 hours. (Source: windows.com)

Bubble Trail Confuses Some

There's also a user interface change for touchscreen devices. When a user taps and then drags their finger (for example to move an icon or window), the screen will now show a trail of what resembles small bubbles.

Unlike the other changes, Microsoft hasn't publicized this in its announcements about the new features. It's not entirely clear what benefit the "bubbles" bring and some users have complained it resembles the effect of a faulty touchscreen.

What's Your Opinion?

Would the new Recall home page change your view of the tool? Is the change to the volume and brightness indicators too minor a change to make any real difference or is this the type of tweak you appreciate? What other features or changes would you like to see in Windows 11?