Microsoft brings Windows 11 Studio Effects to the Quick Settings panel in latest beta build

You can now turn on AI effects from the Taskbar.

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What you need to know

Microsoft has rolled out a newWindows 11 preview buildfor Insiders in the Beta Channel today that brings with it a handful of new features and changes, including the ability to access and configure Windows Studio Effects directly from the Quick Settings panel in the Taskbar.

Windows Studio Effectsshipped withWindows 11 version 22H2, and were previously accessible via the Windows Settings app. Now, starting with this build, users using a device that has a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) will be able to access those features with a few clicks from the Taskbar, including turning on/off voice focus, background blur, eye contact, and more.

In addition to the Quick Settings improvements, Microsoft is also adding a new Energy Recommendations page in the Windows Settings app, which will guide you through things you can do on your PC to improve energy efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint.

Lastly, Microsoft is also rolling out the expanded Widgets panel feature to more Insiders on the Beta Channel starting today. You may not see it right away, but it should be with you soon.

Here’s the full changelog for today’s build:

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Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows on PCs, tablets, phones, and more. Also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch onTwitterandThreads