Hidden Windows 11 Features You’re Not Using Revealed: What You’ve Been Missing
Hidden Windows 11 Features You’re Not Using Revealed: What You’ve Been Missing
Updated on May 8, 2025 • Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
You might not know that Windows 11 hides powerful tools just below the surface—tools that can be used to supercharge productivity, personalize your workflow, and even save battery life. In this guide, you’ll discover eight hidden Windows 11 features you’re not using yet, along with step-by-step tips to activate them.
1. Focus Sessions
It’s been said that “time blocked is productivity unlocked.” With Focus Sessions built into the Clock app, you’ll be guided through timed work intervals and breaks—no extra downloads required.
- Open the Clock app and select Focus Sessions.
- Link to Microsoft To Do to track tasks.
- Customize work/break durations.
2. Voice Typing
Few users realize that Voice Typing has been improved dramatically. It’s now passive when idle, and it’s activated by pressing Win + H.
Speech recognition accuracy has been boosted with on-device AI—perfect for drafting emails hands-free.
3. Energy Recommendations
Batteries can be stretched further by following passive energy tips suggested in Settings → System → Power & battery → Energy recommendations.
- Review background app usage.
- Adjust screen brightness schedules.
- Enable sleeping tabs in Edge to reduce CPU load.
4. Chat from Taskbar
Microsoft Teams Chat is embedded by default; it’s typically disabled but can be made visible by right-clicking the Taskbar and selecting Show chat icon.
It’s passive until needed, ensuring notifications stay out of sight until a message arrives.
5. Snap Group Enhancements
Window layouts can be restored instantly. Hover over the Maximize button, and choose from preset Snap layouts—handy when multiple windows must be opened repeatedly.
6. File Explorer Tabs
Tabbed browsing isn’t just for browsers anymore. Press Ctrl + T in File Explorer to open new tabs and keep folders organized in a single window.
8. Virtual Desktops Customization
Virtual Desktops can be renamed and given custom backgrounds—features that are often overlooked. Right-click a desktop thumbnail in Task View to personalize each workspace.
FAQs
- How do I access hidden features in Windows 11?
- Press Win + X or explore the Settings app to reveal advanced options.
- Will these features slow down my PC?
- No—features like Energy recommendations help optimize performance.
- Can I disable any built-in features?
- Yes—uncheck icons or settings in System → Notifications & actions or Taskbar settings.
References & Expert Quotes
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