Windows 10 Creators Update - the best top new features in Microsoft’s amazing new release
MICROSOFT has finally unveiled Windows 10 Creators Update, and Express.co.uk has had a chance to go on with some of the best features - here’s our verdict.
Windows 10 debuts a slick new creators' update
Windows 10 Creators Update is now officially set for release within the coming weeks.
Earlier this week, Microsoft revealed the official release date for its next major Windows 10 upgrade as April 11th, meaning fans only have a few days to wait to get the latest release.
Promising a number of upgrades and additions, Windows 10 Creators Update comes packed with new features, but what should you be most excited for?
Express.co.uk was invited for a hands-on with the new software ahead of launch, and here’s our pick of what we think the best new additions to look out for.
Paint 3D
Paint 3D has been one of the most highly-publicised new additions to Windows 10 Creators Update, as one of Microsoft’s favourite apps gets a much-needed refresh.
The new app is designed to be used by all Windows 10 users, offering an easy way to create 2D and 3D models and bring 3D to everyone.
Users will be able to create 3D objects from scratch, easily changing colours, stamping textures, or turning a 2D picture into a 3D work of art.
Our demo saw a simple aquarium scene created using pre-set models, which were then given textures, and manipulated across the three dimensions to ensure a smooth layout.
Best of all, when your creation is finished, you can share your work online, and even print in to real-life if you have a 3D printer.
Windows Ink
Your photos finally get an upgrade in Creators Update, thanks to the power of Windows Ink.
The upgrade now means that if you have a stylus such as the Surface Pen, you can now draw or doodle over your photos to add that extra level of customisation, before sharing them online.
This can also be done on your videos, with notes or annotations popping up whilst your clip is playing.
This all gives an extra level of personalisation to your media, which can then again be shared online via the usual channels.
Windows 10 debuts a slick new creators' update
Windows Ink also now works with Maps, allowing you to make suggestions or alterations to your routes.
So if you’re planning a hike, you can simply doodle an outline on Maps, which will then snap to the closest paths.
The app will also dial in to Cortana and bring up real-time traffic information (if on roads) to give you an estimate of the distance and how long it should take.
It’s a simple change, but makes so much sense, and will definitely change the way you interact with your device.
More interactive gaming
Gamers will also see a major step-up in their online experiences with Windows 10 Creators Update.
Windows 10 has always been a platform that supports improved gaming, and this has now taken another big step forward with the new Game Mode.
Microsoft says that Game Mode will, “offer the best and most consistent gaming experience on your Windows 10 PC,” allowing users to tweak their hardware preferences to dedicate more power to ensure a smooth ride.
For those looking to show off their exploits online, Microsoft’s new Beam service offers an incredibly low-latency system, with no extra software or hardware required.
Beam also allows gamers to chat, interact and get to know other streamers and the gaming community in a whole new way, making playing online more social than ever.
Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge has had its fair amount of criticism since the launch of Windows 10, with the browser lagging far behind the likes of Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
Creators Update sees a number of new features and additions to Edge in a bid to close that gap, making the browser smoother and easier to use than ever before.
Edge also now gets better tab management that includes the option to preview web pages just by hovering over separate tabs.
A new “Tabs you’ve set aside” menu lets you create groups of default pages for work, play, or any other theme, starting them all together when you open the browser, saving you valuable time.
The browser has also become Windows 10’s default e-reader, meaning you can read almost any e-book using the app, choosing your favourite font and text size, leave bookmarks, easily navigate using the table of contents or seek bar at the bottom of the browser, and use Cortana to help search for and define specific words.
Security
Security also gets an overhaul in Windows 10 Creators Update as Microsoft looks to make it easy to stay safe whilst using your device.
The new Windows Defender Security Centre gives a single central view of all your device’s safety settings, from anti-virus to performance diagnostics to family safety controls.
There’s also a new Device Health Advisor tool, which gives you information on the vital signs of your device, and new settings give you more control over app installation.
Lastly, a new Microsoft privacy dashboard lets you see and manage your activity across all the company’s services, ensuring you always stay protected.
Overall, then, it looks there really is something for everyone in Windows 10 Creators Update.
Although the release has largely targeted media and creative industries, the sheer range of new features will make this an essential download for all PC users.
Paint 3D definitely stands out as an addition that will rack up hundreds of hours of use, with the improved security protection also much-needed to improve online safety.
Windows 10 Creators Update will be rolling out from April 11th - so keep an eye on the Windows 10 Update Assistant to see when you can download it.