Microsoft Windows 10 Preview update: New UI, screenshot feature, HEIF images support, and more

Shortly after rolling out Windows 10 April 2018 update, Microsoft has announced Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 17661 for Windows Insiders and those who have opted for the company's Skip Ahead programme. The latest Windows 10 Build comes with a range of new features which focus on improved interface for certain applications, new security features, and a number of general bug fixes for PCs. The company has also listed down a few known issues that it will be fixing in the next update.

Microsoft also announced that Insiders in Fast Ring and Skip Ahead programmes will receive the same Redstone 5 builds in the future. Let's take a look at the top features rolled out in Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 17661.

Taking screenshots becomes easier
Microsoft is making it easier for users to take screenshots on Windows 10. Similar to Apple's Mac, Windows users can now take a screenshot quickly and share it as well. With WIN + Shift + S command, Windows 10 will now serve a snipping toolbar which will allow users to customise the screenshot size as per their preferences.

Users can add doodles or annotations in the screenshots as well. "If you have a pen, go into Pen & Windows Ink Settings, you'll find Screen Snipping is now an option for single click. This will launch you directly into our snipping experience," said the company in a post.

Improved security
Microsoft continues to build on the existing security features it has in place for Windows 10 users. The latest Windows 10 Insiders Preview Build comes with a rebranded security center which is now called Windows Security instead of Windows Defender Security Center. The section allows users to manage all security tools at one place. This includes Windows Defender Antivirus and Windows Defender Firewall. The company said it is also improving the way it notifies users about serious security threats and actions that they need to take.

Better multimedia
Microsoft has now integrated "Device properties" into Settings. This makes it easier for users to access audio-related settings. The update is part of the company's ongoing process of consolidating the Settings experiences. Windows 10 April 2018 update had moved Sound settings to Settings.

Microsoft also announced support for High Efficiency Image File Format (HEIF) in Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 17623. Users can rotate HEIF-format images in File Explorer, and edit metadata, such as "Date taken," said the company.

"To rotate a HEIF image file, simply right-click on it in File Explorer and select 'Rotate right' or 'Rotate left' from the menu. 'Date taken' and other properties can be edited by clicking on 'Properties' and selecting the 'Details' tab," said Microsoft on its website.

Focus Assist for gamers
The Windows 10 April 2018 update came with a new Focus Assist feature that aims to help users switch off notifications for some time. Users can, however, customise this feature to include exceptions from certain applications or contacts. Now, the latest build comes with a new feature aimed at gaming enthusiasts. Whenever users are playing any full-screen game, Focus Assist will be enabled automatically.

"No more interruptions when you're crushing it. This behavior should be turned on automatically, but you can always check by going to Settings > System > Focus assist and ensuring the 'When I'm playing a game' automatic rule is enabled," said the company.