Microsoft is bringing a new audio mixer to Windows 11 and its is now available for preview. This new volume controller will give users the ability to make volume and audio output adjustments individually. Importantly, the controller will be available directly in the taskbar on Windows 11.
Windows Insiders can now start testing the feature through Windows 11 Preview Build 25309, which is now available on the Dev Channel.
With the new audio/volume mixer, users can access it through the Quick Settings section on the taskbar. Clicking the volume icon will open the mixer directly. Alternatively, Microsoft has developed a new Windows keyboard shortcut to open the mixer (Win + Ctrl + V).
When the mixer is open, users can switch audio outputs easily, such as between speakers and headphones. Other abilities include controlling the volume for individual applications and also toggle spatial audio services such as Dolby Atmos and Microsoft's own Windows Sonic.
Coming in a Moment
Microsoft does not say when the new volume mixer will become widely available in Windows 11. It is unlikely to come with the Moment 2 update, which is expected to launch this month.
Moment 2 is expected in March, while we reported last month that Moment 3 is in development and ready to ship in May. It also emerged that Microsoft is planning a Moment 4 release that will become Windows 11 2023 Update this fall.
Among the features coming to Moment 2 are a new taskbar for tablet users and a modern system tray for it. Elsewhere, the update will add a search bar to the Task Manager, making it easier to find running processes.
Tip of the day: When Windows 10 or Windows 11 has issues, it's not rare to run into startup problems. Corrupted Windows files, incorrect system configuration, driver failure, or registry tweaks can all cause this issue.
Using Windows startup repair can fix boot issues caused by the most prevalent issues. Though it may seem that all is lost when you run into startup problems, it's important to try a Windows boot repair so you can at least narrow down the source of the issue. If it doesn't work, you may have to reinstall the OS or test your hardware.
