The article discusses the release of the Moment 4 service pack for Windows 11 and the changes it brings. Microsoft has implemented a new operating system update policy with the Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) technology, which gradually deploys new features to users. The release of Moment 4 did not bring all the expected innovations, as it was designated as an intermediate update. Microsoft has also changed its approach to package names, now calling the upcoming update the 2023 Update, which is expected to bring a full set of new features.
To install Moment 4 and activate its features, users need to install the regular cumulative update KB5030310 for Windows 11 version 22H2. However, all new features in the Moment 4 package are disabled by default, and an additional update called “Windows Configuration Update” (KB5030509) is required to activate them. This update is not available for download in Russia and Belarus, but users can use a VPN to bypass the restriction.
The article then goes on to discuss the new features and apps introduced in Moment 4. These include Copilot, an assistant based on the Bing chatbot that allows users to manage device and OS settings; built-in support for RAR, 7z, GZ, and TAR archives; an updated Photos app with a background blur feature; access keys for logging in to apps and services without passwords; dynamic lighting to control RGB illumination of accessories; and the Clipchamp video editor with AI features.
The article also mentions some upcoming features and apps in Moment 4, such as an updated Paint app with support for layers, transparency, and AI tools; an autosaving feature in Notepad; improved Snipping Tool with video capture and text recognition capabilities; backup to the cloud; support for “instant games” in the Microsoft Store; and a presence sensor that can darken the screen when the user is not looking at it.
Other changes brought by Moment 4 include a new volume mixer, Ink Anywhere function for writing notes by hand, enhanced voice navigation capabilities, AI in Explorer for SharePoint users, and the Windows 365 Switch feature for switching between local desktop and cloud PC.
The article concludes by advising users to wait for the final build of the Windows 11 2023 Update, as Moment 4 is an interim update and Microsoft has a tendency to release updates that may have issues. It also mentions the departure of Panos Panay from Microsoft and suggests that big changes are happening within the management team and the Windows development team, which may affect the future development of the operating system.