7 Windows 11 Hidden Features You Should Use Today

Windows 11 has tools most users never find. These features save time and make your computer easier to use. You already paid for them, so you should know they exist.

1. Snap Layouts for Better Multitasking

Hover your mouse over the maximize button on any window. A grid appears with six layout options. Click one to snap your window into place.

This feature helps when you need multiple windows open at once. You can view a document while writing an email. You can compare two spreadsheets side by side. The layouts adjust based on your screen size.

To access snap layouts faster, press Windows key + Z. Your most recent layout choices appear first.

2. Focus Sessions with Spotify Integration

Open the Clock app and click Focus Sessions. Set a timer for how long you want to work. The system blocks distracting notifications during your session.

You can link your Spotify account to play focus music automatically. The app tracks your completed sessions and shows your progress over time.

Focus sessions work well for:

• Deep work that requires concentration
• Studying without phone interruptions
• Meeting tight deadlines
• Building better work habits

3. Voice Typing That Actually Works

Press Windows key + H in any text field. A microphone icon appears. Start talking and your words appear on screen.

The accuracy has improved significantly in Windows 11. You can add punctuation by saying "comma," "period," or "question mark." You can create new paragraphs by saying "new line."

This feature helps when your hands are tired from typing. It speeds up email responses and document creation. The voice recognition learns your speech patterns over time.

4. Clipboard History for Easy Access

Press Windows key + V to see everything you copied recently. The clipboard stores your last 25 items, including text, images, and links.

You can pin items you use frequently. Pinned items stay in your clipboard even after you restart your computer. This saves time when you paste the same information repeatedly.

Enable this feature by going to Settings, then System, then Clipboard. Turn on Clipboard History.

5. Quick Settings Customization

Click the network, sound, and battery icons in your taskbar. A panel slides out with common settings. You can add or remove items from this panel.

Right-click any toggle to customize what appears. Add features you use often, like Night Light, Nearby Sharing, or Mobile Hotspot. Remove items you never touch.

Your custom panel loads faster than digging through the full Settings app. You control what matters to you.

6. Live Captions for Any Audio

Press Windows key + Ctrl + L to turn on live captions. Text appears at the bottom of your screen for any audio playing on your computer.

This works for:

• Video calls and meetings
• YouTube videos and streaming content
• Podcasts and music
• System sounds and notifications

You can move the caption box anywhere on screen. You can change the text size and background color in Settings under Accessibility. The feature runs locally on your device, so your audio stays private.

7. Suggested Actions for Phone Numbers and Dates

Select any phone number or date in a text field. Windows suggests actions based on what you highlighted. Phone numbers show options to call via Teams or Skype. Dates offer to create calendar events.

This feature connects your data across apps without manual copying. It reduces the steps between finding information and using it.

The suggestions appear only when you highlight text. They stay out of your way until you need them.

Key Takeaways

• Use Snap Layouts (Windows + Z) to organize multiple windows instantly
• Try Focus Sessions in the Clock app to block distractions during work
• Enable voice typing (Windows + H) to reduce strain from constant keyboard use
• Access Clipboard History (Windows + V) to retrieve recently copied items
• Customize Quick Settings to put your most-used toggles within easy reach
• Turn on Live Captions (Windows + Ctrl + L) for accessibility and convenience
• Let Suggested Actions connect your phone numbers and dates across apps

Why These Features Matter

Most people use less than 20 percent of what their operating system offers. These seven features already exist on your computer. They require no downloads or purchases.

Each one solves a specific problem. They save clicks, reduce repetitive tasks, and make your workflow smoother. Start with one feature that matches your needs. Add more as you get comfortable.

Your computer should work for you, not against you. These hidden features give you that control.