Microsoft is getting closer to launching a new settings home page in Windows 11. In an update implemented For Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel, Microsoft added a home page with “interactive cards” that give you quick access to various settings, such as device personalization, Bluetooth controls, account recovery, and more.
The page will also display recommended settings that change based on your “specific usage patterns,” giving you shortcuts to any settings you use most often, such as display, sound, and search permissions. You can see what all of this would look like in the image below.
It seems that Microsoft is also using this new home page as a way to advertise some of its own services. There’s a section showing how much cloud storage you have on OneDrive, along with two cards dedicated to showing your subscription statuses for Microsoft 365 and Xbox. Microsoft says the menu will have up to seven cards to start with, “with more coming soon.” The company began testing this feature for the first time in June.
Another cool feature that Microsoft might release soon is the Windows Backup app. First introduced in may, the application allows you to backup your PC when you prepare to use a new one. In addition to automatically applying existing settings to your new PC, it will also transfer any apps pinned to your desktop, Start menu, and taskbar. Microsoft says it won’t automatically install these apps on your new PC, but will provide shortcuts that link you to the Microsoft Store or the developer’s website to reinstall them.
Lastly, Microsoft is pushing a small update to its dynamic lighting feature. Once it’s available to everyone, you’ll be able to use the tool to sync Windows accent color with your PC peripherals and components, as well as set custom colors for your devices.
All of these features come with Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22631.2262, which is now rolling out to the Beta channel.
