Windows 11 collects frequently used features in one place

Microsoft is trying to add a new settings home page to Windows 11. In an update available to Windows Insiders, the software giant added a home page with “interactive cards” that allow quick access to various settings such as device personalization, Bluetooth controls, account recovery and more.

New settings homepage coming to Windows 11

The page will also show recommended settings based on your “specific usage patterns” and give you shortcuts to the settings you use most, such as image, sound, and search permissions. In this way, you will not have to search for basic features in the settings application. On the other hand, it looks like Microsoft will also use this new homepage to advertise some of its own services. There’s a section showing how much cloud storage you have on OneDrive, as well as two cards showing your subscription statuses for Microsoft 365 and Xbox. Microsoft says the menu will initially have a maximum of seven cards, with “more coming soon.” The company first started testing this feature in June.

Another nice feature that Microsoft may release soon will be the Windows Backup app. The application, which was first introduced in May, allows you to back up your computer as you prepare to use a new computer. In addition to automatically transferring your current settings to your new computer, it also sends pinned apps on your desktop, Start menu, and taskbar to the new device as well. Microsoft says it won’t automatically install these apps on your new computer, but will provide shortcuts that take you to the Microsoft Store or the developer’s website for you to reinstall them.

Finally, Microsoft is releasing a small update for the Dynamic Lighting feature. Once available to everyone, you will be able to use this tool to synchronize your Windows accent color with your peripherals and computer components and set custom colors for your devices. All these features are currently included in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22631.2262. It may take some time for the features to come out of beta and reach the end user.