Windows 10 gets a productivity face lift


By Dylan Bushell-Embling
Tuesday, 01 May, 2018


Windows 10 gets a productivity face lift

Microsoft has released for download the Windows 10 April 2018 Update, adding a host of productivity features aimed at freeing up time for users.

The new update will start rolling out to Windows 10 PCs worldwide on 8 May. It includes a number of enterprise-focused enhancements as well as enhancements designed for all users.

On the enterprise side, the new update includes new enhancements to the Delivery Optimisation function, which allows one device to download an update and use the local network to deliver that update to peer computers on the network.

The enhancement allows users to monitor the status of the function using Windows Analytics, including viewing how many devices are enabled and the bandwidth savings achieved.

Windows AutoPilot has also been upgraded to include an enrolment status page designed to help IT administrators set up devices and ensure compliance with IT policies before they are used.

New features for all users include Timeline, a log of the most recent 30 days worth of activity conducted on Microsoft accounts — including recent searches, file downloads and created or modified documents.

Focus Assist meanwhile can be toggled or scheduled to allow users to disable email, social media and other distracting notifications. Notifications are stored in a queue and delivered at the end of the session.

An improved dictation feature is designed to make it easier for users to take notes using their voice by simply pressing the Windows key + H. Users with Cortana enabled on their Windows 10 PCs will also be able to manage their smart homes using their voice.

Finally, Microsoft has implemented new functionality to the Microsoft Edge web browser such as muting and unmuting the sound from a tab with a single click, the ability to send books, PDFs and pages in Reading View mode full screen, and an an autofill option for web payment forms.

Image credit: ©Nmedia/Dollar Photo Club

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