Microsoft has announced a new major update for its Windows 10 OS. Called the Windows 10 April 2018 update, it aims to give users more time to “create, play, work or simply do what you love.” The new update bring with it a number of new features like Timeline, Focus Assist, and Dictation. It also lets users control their phones using Cortana. The update will be available as a free download from April 30.
In a post on the company’s official blog, Yusuf Mehdi, Corporate Vice President, Windows and Devices Group states, “We all get the same 24 hours. And now, more than ever, it seems like it’s never enough. People feel more overwhelmed than ever before and pretty much all of us would love more time – not necessarily time to do more, but time to do what we love. At Microsoft, we want to help you do just that.”
The Timeline feature lets users go back in time by up to 30 days to find things. The post notes that users will also be able to pick up what they were doing if they signed into they Microsoft account while using Edge or Office 360 on their iOS or Android device, and then they returned to their Windows 10 PC.
The Focus Assist is aimed at increasing attentivity of the user. It can be turned on manually and blocks out notifications, emails or updates. Once finished, the user will get a summary of what came through. Users can also choose any specific people who will be able to break through focus assist. On Edge, users can click the audio button to mute and unmute a tab playing sound. Books, PDFs and Reading View pages will be able to go full-screen. Other features include clutter free printing options as well as new grammar tools.
The Dictation feature lets users write on any text field by platting the Window + H keys. The feature works within apps as well. The update also lets users control their IoT devices by using Cortana. Manufacturers whose devices are supported include Ecobee, Honeywell, Nest Learning Thermostat and more.
Other features of the update include simplified IT management tools for enterprise users, new ways to create with Photos, 3D and Windows Mixed reality as well as new way to stay safe online and enhance the PC gaming experience.