Windows 11 Gets Enhanced Snipping Tool and Notepad Features

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The Snipping Tool sees the introduction of the combined capture bar, and Notepad will get an autosave feature.

Snipping Tool
Microsoft has released updates for its Snipping Tool and Notepad applications, available to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels on Windows 11.

Snipping Tool Enhancements​

The Snipping Tool, a popular application for capturing screenshots, has undergone several modifications. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of the combined capture bar. This feature simplifies the process of switching between capturing screenshots and screen recordings without the need to open the application.
Users can utilize the Print Screen or Win + Shift + S keyboard shortcuts to access the capture bar for snipping. Additionally, a new shortcut, Win + Shift + R, has been introduced to directly open the capture bar for recording. Furthermore, the screen recording experience has been enhanced.
Users can now optionally record their PC audio and add voiceovers using a microphone. The application settings have been updated to allow users to configure the default audio recording settings for new screen recordings. For those with multiple recording devices, the Snipping Tool provides an option to select the preferred recording device before initiating a recording.

However, some users have reported an unexpected pop-up dialog when attempting to take a screenshot. Microsoft acknowledges this issue and advises users to select “Snipping Tool” if they encounter this dialog. Back in 2021, Microsoft brought a new Snipping Tool to Windows 11, giving users a native screen recording option on the platform.

Notepad's Modernized Features​

Notepad, a staple application for many Windows users, has also received significant updates. One of the primary changes is the introduction of an autosave feature. With this update, Notepad will automatically save the session state, allowing users to close the application without any interrupting dialogs. Upon reopening, users can seamlessly pick up where they left off.
Notepad will automatically restore previously open tabs, unsaved content, and edits across those tabs. However, this saved session state will not affect any files, and users retain the choice to save or discard unsaved changes to files anytime they close a tab. For those who prefer a fresh start every time they open Notepad, this feature can be turned off in the app settings.

Feedback and Future Rollouts​

Microsoft encourages users to provide feedback on these updates through the Feedback Hub. The company emphasizes that these experiences are being rolled out gradually. As such, not all Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels may have access to these features immediately. Microsoft plans to monitor feedback and assess the reception of these updates before making them available to all Insiders.