Microsoft's July 2025 Security Update for Windows 11 introduces a suite of enhancements aimed at refining user experience, bolstering accessibility, and aligning with regional regulations. This update, applicable to Windows 11 version 24H2, encompasses seven notable features:
- Smaller Taskbar Icons
Users now have the option to display smaller icons on the Taskbar, optimizing space without altering the Taskbar's overall size. This feature can be configured via: - Path: Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors
- Options: Always, Never, When taskbar is full
- Image Compression in Windows Share
The Windows Share interface now includes an image compression feature, allowing users to select compression levels before sharing images. The available options are: - Quality Levels: Original (no compression), Low, Medium, High
- Region Details in Language Settings
The Language & Region settings page now displays the region selected during the initial device setup under the "Device setup region" setting. This addition provides clarity on regional configurations, ensuring system behavior aligns with user preferences. - Screen Curtain in Windows Narrator
A new "Screen Curtain" feature enhances privacy by blacking out the screen while Narrator reads content aloud. This is particularly useful in public or shared spaces, preventing others from viewing sensitive information. To activate: - Shortcut: Caps Lock + Ctrl + C
- PC-to-PC File Transfer via Windows Backup
Windows Backup introduces a "Transfer to a new PC" feature, facilitating the migration of files and settings over a local network. While the interface is present, full functionality is slated for a future update. This tool aims to simplify the setup process for new devices. - Microsoft 365 Actions in Click to Do
For Copilot+ PC users with a Microsoft 365 subscription, the "Click to Do" feature now includes an "Ask M365 Copilot" action. This allows selected text or images to be sent directly to the Microsoft 365 Copilot chatbot, enhancing productivity through seamless integration. - Enhanced Default Browser Settings for European Users
To comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Economic Area (EEA), the process for setting default browsers has been expanded: - Additional File Types: .ftp, .read, .mht, .svg, .xhtml, among others
- Pinning Options: Option to pin the new browser to the Taskbar and Start menu during setup
- PDF Handling: A new "Set default for .pdf" button to designate the default PDF handler
Critical Analysis
The July 2025 Security Update reflects Microsoft's ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and comply with regional regulations. The introduction of smaller Taskbar icons and image compression in the Windows Share interface addresses user feedback for more customizable and efficient interfaces. The Screen Curtain feature in Narrator is a significant step forward in accessibility, offering users enhanced privacy in shared environments.
However, the partial rollout of the PC-to-PC file transfer feature in Windows Backup may lead to user confusion, as the interface is present without full functionality. Clear communication regarding the feature's availability timeline would mitigate potential frustration.
The enhancements to default browser settings in the EEA demonstrate Microsoft's commitment to regulatory compliance. While these changes are region-specific, they set a precedent for potential global implementation, promoting user choice and transparency.
In conclusion, the July 2025 Security Update introduces meaningful improvements to Windows 11, balancing user-centric features with regulatory adherence. As with any update, user feedback will be crucial in refining these features and addressing any unforeseen issues.
Source: Windows Central 7 new features coming with the July 2025 Security Update for Windows 11
