Dave W. Shanahan – OnMSFT.com https://www.onmsft.com Your home for Microsoft-centric news and information Tue, 23 May 2023 14:52:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://e24joaz2t6m.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/cropped-OnMSFT-Logo-Round-512-32x32.png Dave W. Shanahan – OnMSFT.com https://www.onmsft.com 32 32 144796107 Build 2023: Microsoft 365 Copilot coming to Edge, getting new plugins https://www.onmsft.com/news/microsoft-365-copilot-integrated-with-edge/ https://www.onmsft.com/news/microsoft-365-copilot-integrated-with-edge/#disqus_thread Tue, 23 May 2023 15:03:24 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=308177 Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of Build 2023, Microsoft has made a groundbreaking announcement that is set to redefine the way we work and interact with technology. The integration of Microsoft 365 Copilot into Microsoft Edge, the AI-powered web browser, has taken center stage, showcasing the immense potential of combining advanced language models and data integration. This innovative development promises to empower users with unparalleled capabilities, providing seamless assistance and transforming the work experience.

Microsoft 365 Copilot Arriving on Microsoft Edge

Microsoft is set to integrate Microsoft 365 Copilot, currently in a private preview phase, directly into Microsoft Edge, the AI-driven web browser. This integration aims to bring enhanced work-related functionalities to the Edge sidebar, allowing users to access powerful tools for answering questions, completing tasks, and more.
microsoft 365 copilot

The introduction of Microsoft 365 Copilot will introduce novel features that harness the capabilities of large language models (LLMs), leveraging data from Microsoft Graph and the Microsoft 365 suite of applications. Users will have the ability to input natural language requests such as, “Inform my team about the updates we made to the product strategy today.” In response, Copilot will generate a status update based on the morning’s meetings, emails, and chat conversations. By seamlessly integrating with Edge, Copilot becomes even more intuitive as it follows the context of users’ browsing activities, providing more accurate answers. For instance, when viewing a file shared by a colleague, a user can simply inquire, “What are the key insights from this document?”

Previously, Copilot was announced to be available on Microsoft Teams, Microsoft365.com, and Bing for users signed into their work accounts. With the inclusion of Edge, Microsoft reiterates its commitment to delivering these capabilities while ensuring data security and privacy within enterprise settings. To utilize Microsoft 365 Copilot, users must be signed into their Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) account.

Conclusion

As Build 2023 continues, the unveiling of Microsoft 365 Copilot’s integration into Microsoft Edge marks a significant milestone in the realm of productivity tools. Microsoft’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that prioritize data security and privacy remains unwavering. With the ability to generate comprehensive updates, answer complex queries, and provide valuable insights, Microsoft 365 Copilot revolutionizes the way we navigate and engage with our work. Embrace this transformative technology and unlock a new era of efficiency and productivity.

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Build 2023: Microsoft shows Windows developers some love https://www.onmsft.com/news/build-2023-enhances-developer-productivity/ https://www.onmsft.com/news/build-2023-enhances-developer-productivity/#disqus_thread Tue, 23 May 2023 15:01:32 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=308143 At Build 2023, Microsoft unveiled its latest advancements in response to invaluable feedback from developers. With a renewed focus on productivity and performance, Microsoft introduces a dedicated hub on Windows that promises to streamline the entire development process. From setting up machines to managing workflows, these exciting features are set to reshape the developer landscape. Let’s explore these groundbreaking innovations that are currently available for preview.

1. Dev Home: Empowering developers with a personalized dashboard

Dev Home serves as a centralized hub, providing developers with a seamless setup experience and efficient workflow management. This open-source and customizable platform allows users to tailor their development environment with a personalized dashboard and the necessary tools for success. By integrating GitHub widgets, developers can effortlessly track projects, while system widgets enable real-time monitoring of CPU and GPU performance. With Dev Home, developers can now truly take charge of their development journey.

2. WinGet configuration: Simplifying software setup

The Windows Package Manager has undergone a significant transformation with the introduction of WinGet configuration. This powerful feature streamlines the setup requirements for an optimal development environment on Windows machines. By utilizing a WinGet configuration file, developers can bid farewell to the arduous process of searching for specific software versions, packages, tools, and frameworks. Additionally, the hassle of individually configuring settings is eliminated. The WinGet configuration file simplifies the entire process, allowing developers to execute a single command to set up their desired environment swiftly.

3. Dev Drive: Performance and security combined

Addressing the unique storage needs of developers, Microsoft introduces Dev Drive, a novel storage volume engineered for both performance and security. Leveraging the Resilient File System (ReFS), Dev Drive offers a significant enhancement in build times for file input/output (I/O) scenarios, surpassing the performance limitations of the current Windows 11 version. When combined with the new performance mode capability in Microsoft Defender Antivirus, developers can experience up to a remarkable 30% improvement in build times. Dev Drive strikes the perfect balance between security and performance, outperforming folder or process exclusions commonly employed for developer workloads.

4. Intelligent Windows Terminal with GitHub Copilot X

The Windows Terminal takes a leap forward in intelligence with the integration of GitHub Copilot X. This innovative integration empowers developers with the prowess of natural language AI within the Terminal app. Now, GitHub Copilot users can harness the power of AI both inline and through an experimental chat experience. With this AI-powered feature, developers can benefit from command recommendations, error explanations, and automated actions, significantly enhancing the functionality of the Terminal app. Microsoft is actively exploring opportunities to integrate GitHub Copilot-powered AI into other developer tools such as WinDBG, promising a substantial reduction in developers’ workload.

5. Developer Delighters: Enhancing developer satisfaction

Microsoft goes the extra mile to ensure developer satisfaction by incorporating dev delighters. These include taskbar improvements and enhanced support for archive compression. The revamped taskbar provides developers with an optimized workspace, allowing quick access to essential tools and applications. With enhanced support for archive compression, developers can efficiently handle compressed files without compromising productivity. These small but impactful enhancements aim to delight developers and contribute to an overall seamless development experience.

Build 2023: Microsoft helps developers

With its unwavering commitment to developers, Microsoft has raised the bar yet again with its latest innovations at Build 2023. By introducing a dedicated hub on Windows 11, developers can now navigate the development process with unparalleled ease. From Dev Home’s personalized dashboard to the streamlined software setup with WinGet configuration, Microsoft ensures developers can focus on what they do best: building exceptional software. With Dev Drive and the intelligent Windows Terminal powered by GitHub Copilot X, developers gain powerful tools that enhance both performance and security. Dev Drive, built upon the Resilient File System (ReFS), offers developers a storage volume specifically designed to meet their requirements, resulting in faster build times and improved productivity.

Meanwhile, the intelligent Windows Terminal, integrated with GitHub Copilot X, harnesses the capabilities of natural language AI to provide developers with intuitive recommendations, error explanations, and automated actions, reducing their workload and accelerating their development process. These innovative solutions from Microsoft announced at Build 2023 exemplify their commitment to empowering developers and driving the evolution of software development on Windows 11.

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Build 2023: Microsoft is adding Copilot AI to new analytics service Fabric and Power BI https://www.onmsft.com/news/build-2023-fabric-copilot-ai-and-power-bi/ https://www.onmsft.com/news/build-2023-fabric-copilot-ai-and-power-bi/#disqus_thread Tue, 23 May 2023 15:00:55 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=308168 In the fast-paced era of artificial intelligence, organizations are seeking advanced analytics solutions to extract valuable insights from their data. Enter Build 2023, Microsoft Fabric, an innovative platform designed to revolutionize the way analytics workloads are managed. With a seamless integration of Power BI, Data Factory, and Synapse, Fabric offers a unified Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) experience, enabling cost-effective and efficient analytics tailored for the AI era. Join us as we delve into the features and benefits of Microsoft Fabric, along with the latest updates in Power BI, empowering organizations to turn data into actionable insights like never before.

Build 2023: Introducing the revolutionary Microsoft Fabric for the AI Era

Microsoft Fabric, currently available for preview, offers a streamlined and unified experience for all analytics tasks and users on a robust enterprise-level data foundation. It combines the power of Power BI, Data Factory, and the next generation of Synapse into a cohesive Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution. This integrated offering provides customers with a cost-effective and easily manageable modern analytics solution tailored for the AI era. Fabric brings together various experiences, such as data integration, data engineering, data warehousing, data science, real-time analytics, applied observability, and business intelligence, in one place, enhancing productivity like never before.build 2023

To further enhance data value creation within organizations, Microsoft is integrating Copilot into Microsoft Fabric. This integration, soon to be available for preview, enables natural language capabilities and a chat-like experience to generate code and queries. It also allows users to create AI plugins using a low/no-code approach, customize Q&A functionality, tailor semantics and components within the plugin, and deploy them to Microsoft Teams, Power BI, and the web. With the assistance of AI-driven insights, customers can focus on conveying the right data narrative while Copilot handles the heavy lifting.

Organizational data is hosted on Microsoft’s unified foundation, OneLake, which serves as a single source of truth, reducing the need for data extraction, movement, or replication and minimizing the occurrence of uncontrolled data sprawl. Fabric also ensures persistent data governance and adopts a scalable pricing model that grows alongside the organization. Moreover, it embraces an open approach to every layer, eliminating proprietary lock-ins. By leveraging deep integrations with Microsoft 365, Teams, and AI Copilot experiences, Fabric accelerates and scales data value creation for individuals across the board. Whether they are data professionals or non-technical business users, Fabric offers personalized experiences to empower everyone in unlocking greater value from their data.

Empowering Speed and Productivity with Power BI Updates in Preview

Power BI introduces several exciting updates that enable organizations to swiftly transform data into insights using a leading-edge business intelligence platform. These updates include:

  • The addition of Copilot in Power BI, available for preview, harnesses the capabilities of advanced language models to help users uncover and share insights rapidly. Users can now create and customize reports in seconds, generate and modify DAX calculations, summarize data narratives in conversational language, and even inquire about their data. By seamlessly integrating tailored text summaries within reports, Power BI delivers impactful data insights in a more comprehensible manner, allowing users to easily adjust the tone, scope, and style of the narratives.
  • Power BI Direct Lake, available for preview, introduces a new storage mode within Power BI datasets. This mode enables organizations to tap into vast amounts of data without the need for replication by directly accessing the data in the lake.
  • Power BI Desktop Developer Mode, available for preview, facilitates developer-centric workflows through Git integration for Power BI datasets and reports.

Conclusion

The future of data analytics is here, and Microsoft Fabric is leading the way. With its integrated approach and advanced capabilities, Fabric empowers organizations to unlock the full potential of their data assets, driving growth, efficiency, and informed decision-making. Combined with the latest updates in Power BI, organizations can harness the power of natural language, advanced data modeling, and streamlined workflows to gain deeper insights faster than ever before. Embrace the AI era and embark on a data-driven journey with Microsoft Fabric and Power BI updates. Start unlocking the true value of your data today.

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Get your Microsoft Build 2023 Digital Swag: Download an official Spotify playlist, Teams backgrounds, and more! https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/microsoft-build-2023-digital-swag-download/ https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/microsoft-build-2023-digital-swag-download/#disqus_thread Tue, 23 May 2023 14:52:32 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=308209 Microsoft embraces the concept of Build 2023 digital swag to enhance the attendee experience. With its commitment to innovation, Build 2023 digital swag offers a range of exciting rewards and exclusive content to participants. Build 2023 brings together developers, technology enthusiasts, and industry leaders from around the world. Apart from insightful sessions and keynotes, Microsoft also offers a range of digital swag items that you can download and enjoy.

build 2023 digital swag

Not attending Build 2023? Good news, both event attendees and the public can download the Build 2023 digital swag, which includes:

  1. The Official Build 2023 Spotify playlist by Sassy Black, Microsoft’s musical director for the event.
  2. Microsoft Teams backgrounds: Celebrate your developer pride with two Teams backgrounds to use to join your calls and meetings that are branded with the official Build 2023 logo.
  3. Event Badges: Make a statement on social media by flaunting your official event badge (two different color options) with the hashtag #MSBuild.
  4. Wallpapers: Create a captivating atmosphere for your upcoming event with an official Microsoft Build wallpaper; two wallpapers available for both desktop and mobile devices.
  5. Animated GIFs: Prepare yourself to elevate your social media presence with these captivating GIFs that will truly make your posts shine.
  6. I just registered: Inform your friends and followers that you will be honing your skills at Microsoft Build with a unique and shareable post designed by Microsoft to share specifically for your social media accounts.

How to download Microsoft Build 2023 digital swag?

To get started, you need to visit the official Microsoft Build 2023 website. Once you’re on the website, access the “digital swag” section by going to Support > Digital swag. Once you are on Microsoft’s Build 2023 Digital swag page, you can download all digital swag at once or pick the ones that interest you the most.

build 2023 digital swag

Even if you’re unable to attend Build 2023 in person, the good news is that both event attendees and the public can still enjoy the rewards of digital swag. From the official Spotify playlist to Microsoft Teams backgrounds, event badges, wallpapers, animated GIFs, and unique social media posts, there is something for everyone to enhance their digital presence and highlight their enthusiasm for the event. To access the Build 2023 digital swag, simply visit the official Microsoft Build 2023 website and navigate to the “digital swag” section. Choose your favorites, download them, and let the excitement of Build 2023 continue even after the event concludes. Let your passion for technology shine with Build 2023 digital swag!

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Microsoft releases Windows 11 Insider build 25370 to the Canary Channel https://www.onmsft.com/news/windows-11-insider-build-25370/ https://www.onmsft.com/news/windows-11-insider-build-25370/#disqus_thread Mon, 22 May 2023 17:53:23 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=307319 Microsoft has released another Windows 11 Insider build, this one 25370 to the Canary Channel. Just a friendly reminder: new builds rolled out in the Canary Channel are fresh off the production line, and there is a handful of exciting new features and changes to discuss in this build.

What’s Fresh in Windows Insider build 25370:

  1. Support for vTPM in Hyper-V on Windows on Arm (Arm64) builds:
    If you’ve updated your host operating system to the latest flighted build (Build 25370 and above), you can now upgrade guest Windows on Arm virtual machines to Windows 11 Insider Preview builds. The system will detect the TPM 2.0 requirement seamlessly.

Changes and Improvements:

[Networking]

  • Added support for bridging adapters via the command line using netsh.
  • Passpoint Wi-Fi networks now offer enhanced connection performance and display a URL in Quick Settings. This URL provides users with information about the venue or event.
  • Incorporated WPA3 support into the Phone Link instant hotspot feature, ensuring more secure connections to a phone’s hotspot. Additionally, we’ve resolved issues related to respecting metered connection settings, reducing duplicate profiles, and displaying the phone’s display name in the network list.

[Settings]

Under Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings, we’ve included links to advanced properties for network adapters and internet properties.

For Developers:

If you’re a developer, you can download the latest Windows Insider SDK at aka.ms/windowsinsidersdk.

The SDK NuGet packages are now available for flighting at NuGet Gallery | WindowsSDK. These packages offer:

  • .NET TFM packages for use in .NET apps (described at ms/windowsinsidersdk)
  • C++ packages for Win32 headers and libs per architecture
  • BuildTools package, which includes essential tools like MakeAppx.exe, MakePri.exe, and SignTool.exe

These NuGet packages grant you more precise access to the SDK and better integration in CI/CD pipelines. SDK flights are now published for both the Canary and Dev Channels, so make sure to choose the appropriate version for your Insider Channel.

When targeting new APIs, remember to employ adaptive code to ensure your app runs seamlessly on all customer machines, especially when building against the Dev Channel SDK. It’s a recommend feature detection over OS version checks, as OS version checks can be unreliable and may not function as expected in all scenarios.

The Canary Channel is where you can catch an early glimpse of platform changes that require a longer lead time before being released to customers. This includes significant modifications to the Windows kernel, new APIs, and more. It’s important to note that builds in the Canary Channel should not be associated with any specific Windows release. Some changes are experimented with in this channel may never make it to the final release, while others could be incorporated in future Windows versions once they’re polished and ready.

Insider Builds in the Canary Channel are freshly produced and offered to Insiders soon after completion. This means that there may be significant issues that could hinder your PC’s functionality or, in rare cases, necessitate a Windows 11 reinstallation.

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High Contrast Mode on Xbox Series X|S: Enhance your gaming experience in only 5 simple steps https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/enable-high-contrast-mode-on-xbox/ Mon, 15 May 2023 15:58:06 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=307483&preview=true&preview_id=307483 Are you an avid gamer looking to take your gaming experience to the next level? The Xbox Series X|S offers a range of accessibility features to cater to diverse needs, and one such feature is the “High Contrast Mode.” In this guide, we will delve into the world of High Contrast Mode on Xbox Series X|S consoles and explore its benefits, customization options, and answers to frequently asked questions. So, grab your controller and let’s dive in!

High Contrast Mode on Xbox Series X|S

Gaming is a visual experience that immerses players in captivating visual worlds. However, not all gamers have the same visual capabilities, and that’s where High Contrast Mode comes into play. This feature allows players to adjust the colors and contrast on their screens, enhancing visibility and making it easier to distinguish between different elements in games. Whether you have visual impairments, prefer a more vibrant display, or simply want to personalize your gaming experience, High Contrast Mode can be a valuable addition to your Xbox gaming arsenal.

How to activate High Contrast Mode

Activating the high contrast mode on your Xbox Series X|S is a breeze. Simply follow these steps:

  1. From the Xbox dashboard, press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
  2. Navigate to the “Profile & system” tab and select Settings.
  3. From the options listed under Accessibility, choose High Contrast. high contrast mode on xbox
  4. Select the drop-down menu for High contrast.
  5. Toggle the switch to enable High Contrast Mode for either dark or light mode. high contrast mod eon xbox

Once activated, you’ll immediately notice the difference in colors and contrast on your screen. High Contrast Mode on Xbox Series X|S can be a game-changer, especially for gamers with specific visual needs or those seeking a more visually striking experience.

High Contrast Mode Accessibility options

High Contrast Mode on Xbox Series X|S offers several customization options, allowing you to tailor the visual display to your preferences. Here are some of the key customization features you can explore:

  1. Color Filters: High Contrast Mode provides a variety of color filters to choose from, catering to different color sensitivities and preferences. You can experiment with filters such as inverted colors, grayscale, and more, until you find the one that suits your needs best. This flexibility ensures that you can optimize your gaming experience according to your unique visual requirements.high contrast mode on xbox
  2. Contrast and Brightness: Fine-tuning the contrast and brightness levels is crucial to achieve the desired visual clarity. The high contrast mode enables you to adjust these settings to your liking, ensuring that the on-screen elements are easily distinguishable. Whether you prefer a sharp and vivid display or a more subdued ambiance, you have the freedom to tweak the contrast and brightness until it’s exactly right. high contrast mode on xbox
  3. Cursor Size and Color: Navigating menus and UI elements is an integral part of gaming, and the high contrast mode lets you customize the cursor size and color. By increasing the cursor size, you can improve visibility and make it easier to locate the cursor on the screen. Additionally, choosing a contrasting color for the cursor can further enhance its visibility, allowing you to interact with the game effortlessly.
  4. Text and Display Size: Reading text in games can sometimes be challenging, especially for gamers with visual impairments. Xbox Series X|S addresses this concern by offering options to adjust the text size and display zoom. You can increase the text size to ensure legibility or zoom in on the display for a more immersive experience. This customization feature ensures that you can comfortably read in-game text and have a clear view of all the details on your screen.
  5. Audio cues and notifications: In addition to visual enhancements, High Contrast Mode on Xbox Series X|S also provides options for audio cues and notifications. This is particularly beneficial for gamers who may have difficulty relying solely on visual cues. By enabling audio notifications, you can receive auditory feedback for various in-game events, such as receiving messages or unlocking achievements. These audio cues add an extra layer of accessibility and ensure that you never miss important updates while immersed in gameplay.
  6. Dimming and Brightening effects: To further enhance the visual experience, High Contrast Mode offers dimming and brightening effects. These effects adjust the overall luminosity of your display, allowing you to create a more comfortable gaming environment. Whether you prefer a darker ambiance for intense gaming sessions or a brighter setting for vibrant gameplay, the dimming and brightening effects give you the flexibility to set the mood according to your preferences.

High Contrast Mode on Xbox Series X|S opens new possibilities for gamers with diverse visual needs. By adjusting colors, contrast, and various display settings, this feature enhances visibility and personalizes the gaming experience. Whether you have visual impairments, seek a more vibrant display, or simply want to customize your gameplay, the high contrast mode provides a valuable accessibility tool.

high contrast mode on xbox
Xbox Store dark theme

From activating the high contrast mode to customizing color filters, contrast levels, cursor size, and more, Xbox Series X|S offers a range of options for tailoring the visual experience to your preferences. Additionally, the feature seamlessly integrates with audio cues, notifications, and dimming effects to create a fully immersive gaming environment.

Remember, you can enjoy the high contrast mode across various games, and you can switch between different settings on the fly. Xbox Series X|S ensures that accessibility is not limited to a single game or console model, providing a consistent experience across both Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S.

So, the next time you power up your Xbox Series X|S, don’t forget to explore High Contrast Mode and unlock a whole new level of visual enhancement and accessibility in your gaming journey!

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How to join the Microsoft 365 Insider program https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/how-to-join-microsoft-365-insider-program/ Fri, 05 May 2023 13:00:58 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=306789 Are you a Microsoft 365 user looking to stay ahead of the curve and get early access to new features and updates? If so, you’re in luck. The Microsoft 365 Insider program allows users to do just that, by providing early access to new features and updates before they’re released to the general public. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to join the Microsoft 365 Office Insider program and start exploring all that Microsoft 365 has to offer. If you’re interested in installing Microsoft 365 Insider builds on your device, follow the steps below to check if you’re eligible and pick the Insider level that best suits your needs.

Step 1: Check your eligibility for the Microsoft 365 Insider program on Windows

Microsoft 365 insider program

To check if you’re eligible to install Microsoft 365 Insider builds, open a desktop application like Word or Excel and click on Account. Look for your license under Product Information and compare it to the license types listed below.

  • If you have a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscription, you can install Insider builds by following the instructions provided on the page. Look for “Microsoft 365” under Subscription Product, and you should also see a “Microsoft 365 Insider” button.
  • If you have a Business/Education subscription, your Microsoft 365 administrator manages your subscription, and you won’t be able to install or manage Insider builds unless they enable it.
  • If you have a perpetual license, such as a year like 2019 or “LTSC” in your license name, you have a non-subscription version of Office and won’t be able to join the Microsoft 365 Insider program.

Step 2: Choose an Insider level

Microsoft 365 insider program

Microsoft 365 Insider for Windows offers two levels for those with a Microsoft 365 subscription: Beta Channel and Current Channel (Preview). The Beta Channel is best for those who want to use the latest builds to identify issues and provide feedback about new features still in development. The Current Channel (Preview) is best for early adopters who want early access to new features but also want to receive less frequent, more stable updates.

Step 3: Install Microsoft 365 Insider builds

To install Insider builds, open any Microsoft 365 app on Windows and click on File > Account > Microsoft 365 Insider > Join Microsoft 365 Insider.

Microsoft 365 insider program

In the Join Microsoft 365 Insider dialog box, check the box next to “Sign me up for early access to new releases of Microsoft 365 apps” and choose the Insider channel you want. Click the box to “Check for and apply updates” and “I agree to the terms and conditions…” and then click OK.

Microsoft 365 insider program

Depending on your notification settings, you may need to confirm that you want to allow the app to make changes to your device. After which you should get a confirmation message that you have successfully joined the program, be sure to click OK again.
Microsoft 365 insider program

Once you have successfully completed the process of joining the Microsoft 365 Insider program and have chosen the Insider level that best suits your needs, clicking OK will allow you to download and install new Insider builds of Microsoft 365 apps on your PC. These new Insider builds will have the latest features and updates not yet released to the general public. Being an Insider member lets you have access to these features early, enabling you to start using them before they become widely available.

However, keep in mind that these Insider builds are still in development, so they may not work seamlessly and can have sudden bugs or glitches that are yet to be ironed out. You can help improve Microsoft 365 Insider builds by giving feedback to Microsoft when a new version causes issues or if you have any suggestions. Overall, clicking OK is an exciting moment and the beginning of your journey to exploring the latest and greatest features of Microsoft 365.

Step 4: Join the Community

Microsoft 365 insider program

If you have any questions or feedback about the Microsoft 365 Insider program or want to access resources to help you get started with the program, the Microsoft 365 Insider Tech Community and the Answers forum are great places to start. These platforms offer a variety of resources, including step-by-step guides and forums where you can connect with other Microsoft 365 Insiders to share feedback and ask questions.

Conclusion

Becoming a Microsoft 365 Insider is an excellent opportunity to get early access to new features and updates before they are released publicly. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can check your eligibility, choose an Insider level, and install Insider builds on your device. Additionally, you can connect with the Microsoft 365 Insider Tech Community and the Answers forum to provide feedback and ask questions. Join the Microsoft 365 Insider program today and experience all that Microsoft 365 has to offer. And if you’re interested in other Microsoft apps and services, be sure to check out our other guides, including Teams, Windows 11, and more.

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Enhance your Microsoft Edge browsing experience with these 7 ChatGPT extensions on GitHub https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/microsoft-edge-browsing-extensions-on-github/ Tue, 02 May 2023 13:41:59 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=306334 Are you tired of your mundane and outdated Microsoft Edge browsing experience? Do you feel like there’s something missing from your browser that could make your life easier and more productive? Well, look no further! With the help of Awesome ChatGPT on GitHub, a curated list of awesome tools, demos, docs for ChatGPT, these Microsoft Edge extensions will undoubtedly enhance your browsing experience. These extensions, all available on GitHub, will make your life easier, faster, and more efficient. So, what are you waiting for? Follow this guide to enhance your Microsoft Edge browsing experience with these ChatGPT extensions on GitHub.

Enhance Microsoft Edge browsing experience with ChatGPT

microsoft edge browsingMicrosoft Edge is a powerful browser that has undergone significant changes in recent years. With the introduction of new extensions, the Edge browser is now more customizable than ever before. We have scoured the internet and found some Microsoft Edge extensions that will enhance your browsing experience. All of these extensions are available on GitHub, and they’re all free to download and use. The following extensions are user-friendly and easy to install, so you don’t have to worry about a complicated setup process.

  1. Edge extension to access ChatGPT as a popup on any page
  2. Extension to display ChatGPT response alongside Google Search results
  3. Extension to add share abilities to ChatGPT (PDF, PNG or a sharable link)
  4. Edge extension to add input history, copy, and counters to ChatGPT
  5. ChassistantGPT – embeds ChatGPT as a hands-free voice assistant in the background
  6. WebChatGPT – augment your prompts to ChatGPT with web search results
  7. Talk to ChatGPT (voice interface)

Enhancing your Microsoft Edge browsing experience has never been easier, thanks to the power of ChatGPT and these seven extensions available on GitHub. Whether you want to block ads, improve your writing, or save articles for later, there’s an extension on this list that will help you achieve your goals. All of these extensions are easy to use, safe, and best of all, free. So what are you waiting for? Enhance your Microsoft Edge browsing experience by using these ChatGPT extensions on GitHub right now!

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8 tips to set up Microsoft Edge for the best performance and privacy https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/how-to-set-up-microsoft-edge-for-privacy/ Thu, 27 Apr 2023 16:55:44 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=306057 As Microsoft Edge continues to introduce new features, trying to keep it as private and secure can be hard. But what if you also want to set up Microsoft Edge running at the optimal performance at the same time? If you are like me and hate being tracked by Microsoft, follow along with this guide as I run through all the annoying ways Microsoft tries to track you using its Edge browser.

Microsoft has a feature in its Edge browser called Performance Mode, which is aimed at enhancing system performance by reducing memory, processor, and battery usage. This feature is particularly useful for new Windows 11 laptops and Surface devices. The Performance Mode is a part of the Optimize Performance settings and works alongside Sleeping Tabs, another feature on the Chromium-based browser that puts inactive tabs to sleep to reduce system resources. Enabling Performance Mode will deactivate the timeout setting and configure tabs to sleep after five minutes of inactivity.

Tips to set up Microsoft Edge for performance and privacy

If you’re a user of Microsoft Edge, you might be concerned about recent reports of a privacy flaw in the browser. According to a Reddit user, the latest version of Edge is sharing your digital footprint with Bing. This could lead to privacy concerns for many users. But don’t worry, there are steps you can take to set up Edge for both performance and privacy, here are some tips:

  1. Disable Bing search suggestions: By default, Edge uses Bing as its default search engine. However, you can disable Bing search suggestions by going to Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Address bar and search and searching. Turn off the switch for “Show me search and site suggestions using my typed characters” and “Show me suggestions from history, favorites, or other data on this device using my typed characters.” set up microsoft edge
  2. Use a VPN: If you’re concerned about your online privacy, using a VPN when you first set up Microsoft Edge, you can help protect your data. There are many VPNs available, both free and paid, that you can use with Edge.
  3. Clear your history and data: To keep your browsing history private, clear your history and data regularly. You can do this by going to Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data. Choose the time range you want to clear and select the types of data you want to delete. set up microsoft edge
  4. Use Edge’s built-in privacy features: Edge has several built-in privacy features that can help you stay safe online. For example, you can use Tracking Prevention to block trackers and cookies, and you can use InPrivate browsing to browse the web without leaving any traces.
  5. Manage your permissions: Edge allows you to manage which websites have access to your location, camera, microphone, and notifications. To manage these permissions, go to Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Cookies and data stored. Click “Manage and delete cookies and site data” to manage and delete cookies and site data. set up microsoft edge
  6. Disable unnecessary extensions: Extensions can be useful tools, but they can also slow down your browser and compromise your privacy. Disable any extensions that you don’t use or that you don’t trust.
  7. Keep Edge up-to-date: Microsoft regularly releases updates and tests features for Edge that include bug fixes and security improvements. Make sure your browser is up to date to stay protected against the latest threats.
  8. Consider using an ad blocker: Advertisements can be intrusive and can even contain malware. Using an ad blocker can help protect your privacy and improve your browsing experience. However, be aware that some websites may block users who have ad blockers enabled. Although some websites, like this one, rely heavily on ad revenue to operate, so keep that in mind.

By following these tips, you can set up Edge for both performance and privacy. While the recent privacy flaw is concerning, taking steps to protect your data can give you peace of mind while browsing the web. By using these tips, you can enjoy a fast, efficient, and private browsing experience when you set up Microsoft Edge. With the browser’s built-in tools, features, and a few extra steps, you can protect your personal data and stay safe online.

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Boost your productivity with these 3 hidden Outlook features you never knew existed https://www.onmsft.com/how-to/three-hidden-outlook-features-to-try/ Thu, 20 Apr 2023 16:54:01 +0000 https://www.onmsft.com/?p=305096&preview=true&preview_id=305096 Outlook is one of the most popular email clients in the world, and for good reason. It’s easy to use, versatile, and offers a range of features that make managing your emails, contacts, and calendar a breeze. However, there are three examples of hidden Outlook features that many people don’t even know exist that can help improve your productivity.

#1: Access your Bookings with me page

Booking appointments can be a hassle, but with Outlook’s Bookings with me page, it’s simple. To get started, open your calendar and click on the “My Booking Page” option on the left-hand side. You can now add different events that people can book with you, and once you’re finished, you can share the page so others can book time on your calendar. If you need help getting started, follow these easy-to-follow instructions.

  1. Go to https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/.
  2. Click the plus sign (+) icon next to Public to create a new Booking time for people to meet with you. You will be able to create meeting types and times and name them accordingly.
    hidden outlook features
  3. Now you need to enter the details for your booking time. For this example, I am creating a booking time for 30 minutes chats on Microsoft Teams. Click Save when you are finished.
    hidden outlook features
  4. After finishing the setup process, it’s time to personalize your Booking page and notify others that it’s ready for scheduling meetings with you. To share your Booking page with others, click on the Share</strong button and select from the available page-sharing options.
    hidden outlook features
  5. By clicking on Copy link, you can easily share a link to your public Booking page by copying it to your clipboard. If you prefer to share via email, click on Share via email to open an automated send function within Bookings. Additionally, you can automate the process of adding your Booking page to your Outlook email signature by selecting Add to email signature.
  6. To change the banner image of your page, simply click on the three dots located next to Share and choose Edit banner image. hidden outlook features

Keep in mind that depending on your region, you may not be able to access the Bookings with me feature at this time. Please allow for additional time for your Bookings with me page to completely set up as the feature is currently available in Preview.

#2: Read Outlook emails in Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is an excellent browser, and it’s even better when paired with Outlook. To read your emails in Edge, go to the top right-hand corner of your screen and hover over the Bing logo. This will open up the sidebar, where you can click on the Outlook icon. From here, you can view and manage all your email, as well as access your calendar, contacts, and tasks. It’s a simple and convenient way to stay on top of your email game.

#3: Handle long email threads

Long email threads can be a pain, but this one of the more useful of the hidden Outlook features. Click on the “Reply All with Meeting” icon or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + R. This will open up a new meeting invitation in Outlook, which will pull in the subject, attendees, and context from the email thread. It’s an efficient way to handle long conversations without having to go back and forth over email.

Microsoft Outlook has many features that can help you work more efficiently and effectively. These three hidden features are just a few examples of how Outlook can make your life easier. By taking advantage of them, you’ll be able to manage your email, calendar, and contacts with ease, streamline your workflow, stay organized, and reduce the time you spend managing your inbox. Try these features today and see how they can supercharge your productivity!

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Boost your productivity with these 3 hidden Outlook features you never knew existed - OnMSFT.com nonadult 305096