Microsoft Unveils PC Data Transfer Tool
New Migration Feature Promises Seamless PC Upgrades
Upgrading to a new Windows PC is about to become significantly easier. Microsoft has revealed a new data migration tool designed to transfer files and settings wirelessly between computers, a feature that could finally end the tedious manual process of setting up a fresh machine.
Effortless File and Setting Transfer
The forthcoming tool functions similarly to older Windows migration aids like Easy Transfer. Unlike current reliance on OneDrive, which can quickly hit storage limits, this new utility leverages local Wi-Fi networks. This means data moves directly between PCs, bypassing internet dependency and offering enhanced privacy as Microsoft won’t access the transferred information.
Microsoft confirms that personal folders, documents, photos, and home screen layouts will be transferred. While Microsoft Store apps will automatically reinstall, users will still need to manually install all other applications. Critical app data or configurations are not included in the transfer.
Integration into Windows Setup
This migration capability is now a core part of the Windows setup procedure, known as the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE). Previously, the OOBE included options for backup restoration; it has now been enhanced with a new screen asking, “Do you want to transfer information from another PC?”. The system will then prompt users to select the source PC and available data.
The transfer process requires users to input their old PC’s name on the new machine, followed by a verification code entered on the old PC to establish a link. Once connected, users can see which folders are eligible for migration. Initiating the transfer displays a progress timer, showing remaining time and data transferred. The PC setup will not proceed until the migration is complete. The transfer can be paused if the connection drops or canceled by the user.
Microsoft plans to activate the tool via a server update, and it is reportedly already present but inactive on updated Windows 11 PCs. While the exact rollout date remains unclear, the inclusion of a support manual suggests its release is imminent.
According to Statista, as of early 2024, over 70% of the global PC market runs on Windows, highlighting the significant user base that could benefit from this simplified upgrade process (Statista, 2024).
php
Windows 11 Revamps Start Menu App Organization
Although a new Windows operating system is not expected until at least 2026, the current Windows 11 is getting an upgrade. A new feature will automatically reorganize the main menu, grouping applications into categories.
Automatic App Categorization
Instead of relying on AI, Microsoft is using a 15 MB JSON file that contains information regarding which applications should be grouped together. As Windows Latest reports, almost every application in the Microsoft Store is assigned a number; for example, 0 designates productivity apps, 1 for social apps, and 2 for creative apps, etc.
How It Works
The new start menu will automatically group apps once there are at least three apps belonging to the same category. It seems users will have to accept this new format, since the order of categories depends on frequency of use.
With nearly 1.5 billion Windows users worldwide, efficient app organization is crucial for user experience. (Microsoft, 2024)
microsoft’s ‘MU’ AI Model Brings On-Device Intelligence to Windows 11
Table of Contents
Microsoft has unveiled “MU,” a streamlined AI model designed to operate directly within the Windows 11 operating system. This innovation leverages the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) found in copilot+ PCs, enabling private AI responses without cloud dependency, allowing users to execute commands and process data locally [[1]].
Key Features of the MU AI model
The MU model, boasting just 330 million parameters, employs an encoder-decoder architecture to minimize memory usage and accelerate response times.Tests conducted on Qualcomm’s Hexagon NPU demonstrate that MU achieves 47% of the first tokens and decodes nearly five times faster than models using only a decoder.
Did You Know? The encoder-decoder architecture is commonly used in machine translation and speech recognition, allowing for efficient processing of sequential data.
This efficient design allows MU to process over 200 tokens per second, enabling real-time use on devices like the Surface Laptop 7, with response times under half a second.
Natural Language Control and System management
MU’s primary function is to facilitate user control of Windows 11 through natural language commands. Users can adjust settings like screen brightness or power modes simply by speaking or typing instructions. MU intelligently matches user input with executable commands, resolving ambiguities through coordination with traditional search functionalities.
Microsoft’s Commitment to Data Sovereignty
The introduction of MU aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy in Europe, where the company is upgrading its cloud infrastructure to provide customers with greater control over their data. This includes ensuring that user information remains within Europe, adhering to local laws and bolstering confidence in “Digital Sovereignty.”
Pro Tip: Explore Microsoft’s Trust Center for detailed information on their data governance policies and compliance efforts.
Testing MU: Windows Insider Program
Windows 11 users participating in the Microsoft Windows Insider Program can preview MU in Settings before the preview of 26200.561 via the developer. Insider Program. This program offers early access to new features but may include less stable builds, making it ideal for developers and technology testers.
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| On-Device processing | AI tasks processed locally on the device | Enhanced privacy and reduced cloud dependency |
| Natural Language Control | Control Windows 11 settings via voice or text | Intuitive and user-pleasant interface |
| Compact AI Model | 330 million parameters | Efficient performance and fast response times |
| Data Sovereignty | Ensuring data remains within Europe | Compliance with local laws and increased user trust |
Evergreen Insights: The Evolution of On-Device AI
The shift towards on-device AI processing represents a significant trend in the tech industry. Historically, AI models relied heavily on cloud infrastructure for processing power. Though, advancements in hardware, particularly NPUs, have made it possible to run sophisticated AI models directly on devices. This evolution offers numerous benefits, including improved privacy, reduced latency, and enhanced energy efficiency. As devices become more powerful and AI models become more optimized, on-device AI is poised to play an increasingly vital role in our daily lives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Microsoft’s MU AI Model
- What is Microsoft’s MU AI model?
- MU is a small AI model developed by Microsoft for Windows 11, designed to operate directly on the device, leveraging the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for private and efficient AI responses.
- How does MU enhance Windows 11?
- MU allows users to control Windows 11 settings and functions using natural language commands, such as adjusting screen brightness or changing power modes, all processed on-device.
- What are the benefits of on-device AI processing with MU?
- On-device processing with MU ensures user privacy, reduces reliance on cloud connectivity, and provides faster response times for AI-driven tasks within Windows 11.
- Who can test the MU AI model?
- Windows 11 users enrolled in the Microsoft Windows Insider Program can test MU in Settings before the preview of 26200.561 via the developer. Insider Program.
- How does MU contribute to data sovereignty in Europe?
- The launch of MU aligns with Microsoft’s efforts to enhance data management control for European customers, ensuring their information remains within Europe and under local laws, promoting “Digital Sovereignty.”
- What is the size of the MU AI model?
- The MU AI model is compact, comprising only 330 million parameters, which contributes to its efficiency and speed.
What are your thoughts on the future of on-device AI? How will it impact user privacy and data security?
Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!
Stay informed about the latest developments in AI and technology – subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates!
Microsoft has officially begun testing its groundbreaking AI-powered search feature for Windows 11, marking a meaningful leap in how users interact with their devices. This new feature, unveiled last October, is now available to participants in the Windows Insider Beta Program. leveraging semantic indexing technology, it allows users to search for local files using natural, conversational language, making the process more intuitive and efficient.
The feature integrates seamlessly into various parts of the system,including settings,File Explorer,and the taskbar. One of its standout advantages is that it operates entirely offline, thanks to the dedicated NPU chipsets in Copilot plus devices. Thes chipsets accelerate local data processing, eliminating the need for an Internet connection and ensuring faster, more secure searches.
Currently,the search functionality is limited to specific file types,such as JPEG,PNG,and text files like PDF and TXT. However, users can customize their search experience by navigating to the Windows Search settings under Privacy and Security. Here, they can specify which locations to include in indexing or activate the Enhanced option to index all files on the device.
Microsoft has hinted at future expansions, including support for cloud data stored on platforms like OneDrive.This move aligns with the company’s broader vision of creating a more unified and bright search experience across devices and services.
Key Features of Windows 11 AI-Powered Search
| Feature | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Technology | Semantic indexing for natural language searches |
| Offline Capability | Powered by NPU chipsets in copilot Plus devices |
| Supported File Types | JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, and more |
| Customization | Users can specify search locations and enable Enhanced indexing |
| Future Plans | Expansion to include cloud data and additional file types |
This innovative feature is set to redefine how users interact with their files, offering a more personalized and efficient search experience. As Microsoft continues to refine and expand its capabilities, the future of Windows 11 looks more dynamic than ever.Microsoft Unveils AI-Powered Search and writing Tools in Latest Update
Microsoft is revolutionizing the way users interact with their devices by introducing a suite of AI-powered features in its latest update. These innovations, designed to enhance productivity and streamline workflows, include a groundbreaking search functionality and advanced writing tools.
The new AI-powered search feature,integrated into OneDrive,allows users to search their cloud files as seamlessly as they would local files. This development marks a significant leap in cloud storage accessibility, making it easier for users to locate documents, images, and other files stored in the cloud. Initially, the feature will be available on devices running Snapdragon processors and the Copilot Plus version, with plans to expand support to devices powered by Intel and AMD processors in the near future.What sets this search tool apart is its multilingual support,catering to users across the globe. The feature currently supports Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and spanish, ensuring a broad user base can benefit from its capabilities.
but Microsoft didn’t stop there. The update also introduces AI-driven writing tools designed to assist users in crafting polished and error-free content. One standout feature is the “Click to Do” tool, which provides a list of contextual options when users press the Windows key and left-click on the screen. This functionality enables smoother text retyping and includes an “Enhance” option that automatically corrects grammar, ensuring professional-quality writing with minimal effort.
These innovations underscore Microsoft’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance user experiences. By integrating AI into everyday tasks like searching and writing, the company is setting a new standard for productivity tools.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| AI-Powered Search | Search cloud files in OneDrive like local files; supports multiple languages|
| Device Compatibility | Initially available on Snapdragon and copilot Plus devices |
| Writing Tools | “Click to Do” and “enhance” options for smoother text editing and grammar correction |
| Multilingual Support | Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish |
As Microsoft continues to expand the reach of these features, users can look forward to a more intuitive and efficient digital experience. Whether you’re searching for a crucial document or polishing an crucial email, these tools are poised to make your workflow smoother than ever.
Stay tuned for updates as Microsoft rolls out these features to a wider range of devices and platforms. For now, users with compatible devices can dive into the future of productivity with these cutting-edge tools.
Named Microsoft OS beta channel users Windows 10 To release a Preview, and the channel is closing permanently, as Microsoft has now closed the Windows 10 Insider beta, just months after its initial launch.
That tech giant announced Windows 10 Build 19045.5194 for Windows 10 22H2 is the last update for the beta channel, and going forward, everyone who knows the beta will be moved to the Release Preview channel, the closest to stable. spread
“We will continue to release builds for Windows 10 in the Release Preview channel only in the future,” Microsoft says in the documents.
The Windows 10 Insiders beta channel was first opened in June this year, and while it’s still… Windows 10 end of support date It is October 14, 2025, Microsoft decided to open the channel to test new features and improvements for the 22H2 version.
Microsoft has made many conscious efforts to prepare the loyalty of Windows 10 users for the transition to Windows 11, such as changing some components on the Windows 10 settings page to resemble … Windows 11 Uninstall key Windows 10 features, such as Paint 3D.
The company even went so far as to charge $30 for an extended security service for users who want to give their Windows 10 PCs another year of life.
But speaking of the update, Microsoft has made the “Recommended” section in the Start menu an advanced feature of Windows 10, and by showing some applications from the Microsoft Store “from a small group of selected developers,” some users call another attempt at this. at Microsoft’s free advertising efforts.
What are the potential drawbacks for users who transition from the Windows 10 Insider beta channel to the Release Preview channel?
Interviewer: Welcome to World Today News. With us today, we have two esteemed guests, Sarah Smith, a well-known technology journalist, and Tom Andrews, a software developer and avid Microsoft user. Thank you both for joining us today. Firstly, Sarah, can you help us understand the implications of Microsoft’s decision to close its Windows 10 Insider beta channel and transition users to the Release Preview channel?
Sarah Smith: Absolutely. With Microsoft closing the Windows 10 Insider beta channel, it’s clear that they are signalling the end of an era for Windows 10. While Windows 10 will continue to receive security updates until October 14, 2025, this move indicates that Microsoft is focusing its development efforts on Windows 11. The Release Preview channel is the closest thing to a stable version of Windows, suggesting that users on this channel can expect fewer big changes and more targeted fixes. However, some users may feel frustrated by the lack of new features or customization options available to them.
Interviewer: Tom, as a long-time Windows user, how have you been experiencing the transition from Windows 10 to the newer versions? Do you think Windows 11 offers enough new features to make the switch worth it?
Tom Andrews: Well, personally, I’ve been on the fence about Windows 11. I understand that it comes with improvements like better integration with the Microsoft Store and a streamlined look, but I’ve also encountered some compatibility issues with older programs and hardware. I think Microsoft needs to do more to win over users who are hesitant about switching. In terms of new features, Windows 10 has been pretty good at keeping up with the latest trends and adding useful tools like the Your Phone app, so it remains to be seen if Windows 11 will offer enough to justify the upgrade.
Interviewer: Microsoft has been making some significant changes to the Windows interface recently, such as removing Paint 3D and introducing a paid service to extend Windows 10 support. Do you think these changes are a positive or negative development for users?
Sarah Smith: It’s a complicated question. Microsoft is trying to modernize the Windows interface and push users towards its Universal Windows Platform (UWP), which is why they’re reducing the presence
history of the