Latest news with #MikeTholfsen
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
8 New Microsoft Teams Features Arrive in Latest Summer 2025 Updates
What if your team could accomplish more in less time, with fewer distractions and smarter tools at your fingertips? Microsoft Teams is raising the bar yet again with its Summer 2025 updates, introducing eight new features designed to transform how we collaborate and communicate. From AI-powered Copilot Chat that drafts messages for you to voice isolation technology that eliminates background noise, these updates promise to redefine productivity in the workplace. Whether you're a remote worker navigating noisy environments or a project manager juggling multiple tasks, these enhancements aim to make your workday smoother, faster, and more intuitive. In this deep dive, Mike Tholfsen explores how these features—like customizable keyboard shortcuts, a unified chat and channels view, and interactive Loop components—can elevate your workflow. You'll discover tools that not only save time but also adapt to your unique needs, making Microsoft Teams feel more personal than ever. Curious about how AI is reshaping virtual collaboration or how a simple emoji search can boost team morale? These updates are more than just incremental improvements; they're a glimpse into the future of teamwork. Let's unpack the innovations shaping the way we work, one feature at a time. Microsoft Teams Summer 2025 Updates Integrated Copilot Chat: AI at Your Service The Integrated Copilot Chat is a standout addition, using AI-powered assistance to help you complete tasks more efficiently. This feature can draft messages, summarize conversations, and even automate workflows—all seamlessly integrated within Teams. With enterprise-grade data protection, your sensitive information remains secure, making sure compliance with organizational standards. Additionally, Copilot Chat offers customization options, allowing you to tailor its responses to suit your specific needs. Whether you're managing a project or responding to team inquiries, this tool simplifies complex tasks and enhances productivity. Unified Chat and Channels View: Simplified Navigation Navigating Teams has become more intuitive with the unified chat and channels view, which merges conversations and channels into a single, streamlined interface. This update allows you to sort and filter content, such as viewing only unread messages or creating custom sections for quick access to your most-used chats and channels. For users who prefer the traditional layout, the option to toggle back to the separate view remains available. This flexibility ensures that Teams adapts to your workflow, not the other way around. 8 New Microsoft Teams Features Watch this video on YouTube. Enhance your knowledge on Microsoft Teams by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Expandable Right-Hand Panel in Chat The expandable right-hand panel in chat is a fantastic option for multitasking. This feature allows you to access shared content, such as files, links, or meeting notes, without leaving the conversation. You can resize the panel to suit your needs, making sure that you stay engaged in discussions while referencing important materials. Quick-access shortcuts, like 'Alt + P', further enhance navigation, saving you valuable time during collaborative sessions. This update is particularly useful for teams working on complex projects that require frequent reference to shared resources. Emoji Search Functionality: Faster Personalization Adding a personal touch to your messages is now easier with the emoji search functionality. By simply typing the name of an emoji, you can locate and insert it instantly. This small but impactful update enhances communication by making your interactions more expressive and engaging. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or lightening the mood in a meeting, this feature ensures that your messages convey the right tone quickly and efficiently. Customizable Keyboard Shortcuts: Tailored Navigation Microsoft Teams now offers customizable keyboard shortcuts, giving you greater control over how you navigate the platform. You can modify existing shortcuts or create new ones to align with your workflow. If a conflict arises between shortcuts, the system provides an alert, making sure a smooth and conflict-free experience. This feature is particularly beneficial for power users who rely on efficiency and speed to manage their daily tasks. AI-Powered Voice Isolation: Crystal-Clear Meetings Background noise during meetings is no longer a concern, thanks to AI-powered voice isolation. This feature focuses exclusively on the speaker's voice, suppressing distractions such as typing, ambient sounds, or background chatter. By creating a personalized voice profile, you can ensure that your voice is prioritized, resulting in clearer communication. This update is especially valuable for remote workers or those in noisy environments, as it enhances the overall quality of virtual meetings. Message Forwarding in Channels: Simplified Information Sharing Sharing information across Teams has been streamlined with the ability to forward messages from channels to other chats or channels. This eliminates the need for manual copying and pasting, allowing you to quickly redirect important updates or discussions to the appropriate audience. Whether you're sharing project updates or redirecting queries, this feature ensures that information flows efficiently across your team. Collaborative Loop Components in Messages Microsoft Teams now supports forwarding messages containing Loop components, such as task lists, tables, or checklists. These components remain interactive and editable even after being forwarded, allowing seamless collaboration. Team members can continue working on shared content without interruptions, making this feature ideal for dynamic projects that require real-time updates. By integrating Loop components into your workflow, you can ensure that everyone stays aligned and productive. Maximizing the Benefits of Microsoft Teams The eight new features in Microsoft Teams for Summer 2025 reflect a commitment to improving productivity and collaboration for modern teams. From AI-driven tools like Copilot Chat and voice isolation to customizable interfaces and enhanced message-sharing capabilities, these updates address the diverse needs of users across industries. By incorporating these features into your daily workflow, you can streamline communication, reduce distractions, and focus on achieving your goals more effectively. These enhancements ensure that Microsoft Teams remains a powerful tool for fostering teamwork and driving success in today's fast-paced work environments. Media Credit: Mike Tholfsen Filed Under: AI, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
31-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
New Windows 11 Features Will Change How You Work and Play in 2025
What if your operating system could do more than just run your favorite apps? What if it could actively transform the way you work, play, and manage your digital life? With the latest updates in Windows 11, Microsoft isn't just tweaking the edges—it's redefining how we interact with our devices. From streamlined multitasking tools to energy-saving innovations, these new features promise to make your daily computing experience more intuitive, efficient, and even enjoyable. Whether you're a multitasking pro juggling countless tabs or someone who just wants a cleaner, smarter interface, Windows 11's latest enhancements are designed to meet you where you are. Mike Tholfsen takes you through 11 standout features that are reshaping the Windows 11 experience. Expect to uncover innovative upgrades like smarter file navigation, personalized taskbar options, and tools that simplify everything from image editing to energy management. But we won't stop there—these updates go beyond surface-level tweaks, offering deeper customization and functionality that adapt to your unique needs. As you read on, you might just find that these features aren't merely upgrades—they're solutions to the everyday frustrations you didn't even realize you had. Windows 11 24H2 Highlights Taskbar Customization: Greater Control at Your Fingertips The taskbar in Windows 11 has undergone significant upgrades to improve flexibility and usability. You can now add labels to taskbar buttons, a feature reminiscent of Windows 10, making it easier to identify open applications at a glance. This is particularly helpful for users who manage multiple applications simultaneously. Additionally, taskbar buttons can be set to combine only when space is limited, giving you more control over how your workspace looks. These changes are especially beneficial for multitasking, helping you manage multiple windows without confusion or clutter. For users who prefer a more personalized experience, these updates allow you to fine-tune the taskbar to suit your workflow. Whether you're working on a single monitor or a multi-display setup, the enhanced taskbar functionality ensures a smoother, more organized experience. File Explorer: Smarter Navigation File Explorer has become more intuitive and efficient with the introduction of new tab management features. You can now duplicate tabs, allowing you to work on multiple instances of the same directory seamlessly. This is particularly useful for tasks that require comparing files or organizing content across different folders. Keyboard shortcuts, such as Ctrl+Tab and Ctrl+Shift+Tab, make switching between tabs faster and more efficient, saving you time and effort. The drag-and-drop functionality to breadcrumbs further simplifies file organization. This feature allows you to move files with minimal effort, making it easier to manage your directories. Whether you're a professional handling large volumes of data or a casual user organizing personal files, these updates enhance the overall usability of File Explorer. New Features in Windows 11 in Update 24h2 Watch this video on YouTube. Expand your understanding of Windows 11 with additional resources from our extensive library of articles. Energy Management: Smarter Power Usage The new Energy Saver Mode replaces the older Battery Saver Mode, offering enhanced energy management for both laptops and desktops. This feature allows you to customize activation thresholds and dimming options, giving you greater control over your device's power consumption. By disabling transparency effects and pausing non-essential background applications, Energy Saver Mode ensures optimal performance while extending battery life. This update is particularly beneficial for users who rely on their devices for extended periods without access to a power source. Whether you're working remotely, traveling, or simply looking to reduce energy consumption, the improved energy management tools provide a practical solution. Battery Status: More Information at a Glance The battery icon on the taskbar has been updated to provide more detailed information. It now displays the battery percentage directly, making it easier to monitor your device's charge level. Additionally, the icon changes color based on the battery's status, offering a quick visual cue to keep you informed about your device's power levels. This feature is particularly useful for users who need to manage their device's battery life effectively. Whether you're in a meeting, on a long flight, or simply working from home, the enhanced battery status display ensures you stay informed and prepared. Image Editing: Enhanced Tools in Microsoft Paint Microsoft Paint has introduced a generative erase feature, allowing you to remove unwanted elements from images with precision. The adjustable eraser size ensures you can make modifications as detailed or broad as needed. This update makes Paint a more versatile tool for basic image editing, catering to users who need quick and effective solutions. These enhancements make Microsoft Paint a more competitive option for casual image editing tasks. Whether you're creating content for social media, editing personal photos, or working on a project, the new tools provide greater flexibility and ease of use. Data Extraction: Smarter Screenshots The Snipping Tool now includes a 'Copy as Table' feature, which extracts tabular data from screenshots. This functionality is particularly useful for capturing information from spreadsheets or tables without manual transcription. It saves time, reduces errors, and is especially valuable for professionals who frequently work with data. This update streamlines the process of transferring information from visual formats to editable documents. Whether you're analyzing data, preparing reports, or sharing information with colleagues, the enhanced Snipping Tool simplifies your workflow. Quick Settings: Easier Access to Preferences Quick Settings have been revamped with a scrollable interface, making it easier to access additional options. This update ensures you can customize your system preferences without navigating through multiple menus. The streamlined design allows you to adjust settings quickly and efficiently, saving time and effort. For users who frequently modify system preferences, the improved Quick Settings interface provides a more user-friendly experience. Whether you're adjusting display settings, managing network connections, or allowing accessibility features, the new layout ensures a smoother process. Expanded File Compression Support Windows 11 now supports additional file compression formats, including 7z and tar. These new options expand your ability to work with various file types, eliminating the need for third-party software. Enhanced compression settings also provide greater flexibility in managing file storage and sharing. This update is particularly beneficial for users who frequently work with compressed files. Whether you're sharing large files, archiving data, or collaborating on projects, the expanded file compression support simplifies the process and enhances compatibility. Why These Updates Matter The 24H2 update for Windows 11 introduces a wide array of features designed to improve productivity, simplify workflows, and provide a more seamless computing experience. These enhancements cater to both casual users and professionals, offering tools that make daily tasks more efficient and intuitive. By incorporating these updates into your routine, you can take full advantage of the operating system's capabilities and enjoy a more user-friendly environment. From taskbar customization to smarter file management, enhanced energy efficiency, and expanded compatibility, Windows 11 continues to evolve to meet the needs of its users. These updates not only enhance functionality but also ensure a more personalized and efficient computing experience. Media Credit: Mike Tholfsen Filed Under: Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
20-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
How to use Copilot Vision : Professionals and Educators Guide 2025
Have you ever wished your computer could truly understand what you need—without endless clicks, menus, or instructions? With Copilot Vision in Microsoft Copilot, that wish is no longer a distant dream. Imagine seamlessly navigating your workday by simply sharing your screen and giving voice commands, while an AI assistant handles the heavy lifting in real time. Whether you're managing a complex project in OneNote, solving math equations step by step, or delivering a polished lesson as an educator, Copilot Vision transforms how you interact with technology. This isn't just a tool; it's a smarter, more intuitive way to work, learn, and collaborate. In this how-to by Mike Tholfsen, you'll learn the full potential of Copilot Vision, from its AI-powered screen sharing to its ability to generate automatic transcripts of your sessions. We'll explore how it integrates with tools like Microsoft Edge and OneNote, making even the most intricate tasks feel effortless. Along the way, you'll discover features that cater to educators, students, and professionals alike—like personalized learning support and real-time feedback. Whether you're new to Copilot Vision or looking to master its advanced capabilities, this guide, inspired by insights from Mike Tholfsen, will help you unlock a more productive, hands-free workflow. After all, the future of work and learning isn't just about doing more—it's about doing it smarter. Getting Started with Copilot Vision To begin using Copilot Vision, access it through the Consumer Copilot app on your Windows device. If the app is not pre-installed, you can download it from the Microsoft Store. Once installed, activate Copilot Vision to start sharing windows and interacting with the AI assistant. The interface is designed to be intuitive, allowing you to focus on your work while the AI manages technical details in the background. To ensure a smooth experience, verify that your device meets the system requirements for the app. Once activated, you can immediately begin exploring its features, such as voice-activated commands and real-time content analysis, which are tailored to streamline your workflow. Key Features of Screen Sharing One of the most notable features of Copilot Vision is its ability to share specific windows with the AI assistant. This functionality allows the AI to analyze and respond to the content displayed in real time, making it a powerful tool for multitasking. For example, you can share your Microsoft Edge browser or a OneNote document and use voice commands to: Navigate tools and menus effortlessly without manual input. Request explanations or clarifications on visible content for better understanding. Receive constructive feedback to refine your work or ideas. This hands-free interaction not only saves time but also enhances productivity by allowing you to focus on critical tasks while the AI handles routine operations. The seamless integration of screen sharing with voice commands ensures a fluid and efficient workflow. Using Copilot Vision for Smarter Work & Learning Watch this video on YouTube. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on Copilot Vision. Enhanced OneNote Integration Copilot Vision is particularly effective when paired with OneNote, offering a range of features that benefit both educators and students. The AI assistant recognizes toolbar functions, including those in Class Notebook, and provides step-by-step guidance on their use. This integration allows educators to: Distribute pages to students quickly and efficiently. Organize and manage student notebooks with minimal effort. Access detailed explanations of advanced features to maximize functionality. For students, this integration simplifies the learning process by offering personalized support and guidance. Whether you're navigating OneNote for the first time or exploring its advanced tools, Copilot Vision ensures you can unlock its full potential without requiring extensive training. Math Tutoring and Visual Learning Copilot Vision excels in supporting math-focused tasks, offering robust tutoring capabilities that break down complex problems into manageable steps. For example, it can guide you through solving equations like the Pythagorean theorem by providing clear, step-by-step instructions. Additionally, it supports: Drawing and annotating graphs or shapes to enhance visual understanding. Offering interactive tools for solving complex mathematical concepts. These features are invaluable for subjects that demand detailed explanations and visual aids. By combining interactive problem-solving tools with AI-driven guidance, Copilot Vision makes learning math more engaging and accessible, catering to a wide range of educational needs. Automatic Transcript Creation Another significant feature of Copilot Vision is its ability to automatically record and generate transcripts of all interactions. This functionality is particularly useful in educational and professional settings, where revisiting explanations or instructions can reinforce understanding. The transcript ensures that no detail is overlooked, providing a reliable reference for: Reviewing key points discussed during a session. Tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement. Sharing detailed records with team members or students for collaboration. By offering a comprehensive record of interactions, Copilot Vision supports continuous learning and ensures that users can revisit important details whenever needed. Applications in Education Copilot Vision is designed to enhance collaboration and learning experiences, making it an invaluable tool for educators and students alike. Its AI-powered tools and real-time feedback create an interactive environment that fosters engagement and productivity. Key educational applications include: Improving lesson delivery with AI-guided tools that simplify complex topics. Providing personalized support to students during assignments or projects. Facilitating content sharing and annotation for group activities. By integrating AI assistance with collaborative features, Copilot Vision transforms traditional learning methods into dynamic, interactive experiences. Its ability to adapt to various educational scenarios ensures that both teachers and students can benefit from its capabilities. Availability and Regional Support Copilot Vision is available globally, although access may vary depending on your region. Microsoft provides localized support to ensure users can understand and use the feature effectively in their area. This approach ensures that Copilot Vision is accessible to a diverse audience, making it a valuable tool for users worldwide. To check availability in your region, visit the Microsoft website or consult the app's settings for localized options. By offering tailored support, Microsoft ensures that users can maximize the benefits of Copilot Vision regardless of their location. Media Credit: Mike Tholfsen Filed Under: AI, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
