Hidden Windows 11 features can transform your daily tasks by making them more efficient and secure. With each update, Microsoft introduces subtle yet impactful improvements that can transform how you interact with your device. However, many users barely scratch the surface of what Windows 11 offers, overlooking features that could significantly enhance productivity.
While some features are widely advertised, there are plenty of hidden Windows 11 tools that can optimize performance, safeguard privacy, and streamline workflow. In this guide, we’ll uncover 15 hidden Windows 11 features you should be using in 2025 to boost efficiency and unlock your PC’s full potential. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, these hidden gems will help you get the most out of your Windows experience.
1. Focus Sessions: Stay on Task
If distractions keep you from getting work done, Focus Sessions can help. Integrated with Microsoft To-Do and Spotify, this feature allows you to set timers, break tasks into smaller goals, and listen to music while staying on track. Focus Sessions even provides statistics on your productivity to help you improve time management.
How to Use It:
- Open the Clock app.
- Select Focus Sessions.
- Set your timer and tasks, then hit Start Session.
- Use the built-in breaks feature to manage fatigue.
2. Clipboard History: Keep Track of Your Copies
Windows 11 has a built-in clipboard manager that saves multiple copied items, making it easier to access past text or images. You can even pin frequently used items for quick access.
How to Enable It:
- Press Windows + V.
- Click Turn on to enable clipboard history.
- Use the same shortcut to view saved items and manage your clipboard.
- Select pinned items for easy reuse.
3. Hidden Windows 11 Feature: Snap Layouts for Seamless Multitasking
Snap Layouts let you quickly organize multiple windows on your screen. This feature is perfect for multitasking without cluttering your workspace. It allows for better workflow, reducing the time spent switching between applications.
How to Use It:
- Hover your mouse over the Maximize button on any window.
- Choose your preferred layout option.
- Drag windows into designated sections for an efficient workspace.
4. Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR): Balance Performance and Battery Life
Improve battery life and performance on supported devices with Dynamic Refresh Rate. It automatically adjusts the refresh rate based on your activity, ensuring smoother visuals when needed while conserving power during static tasks.
How to Enable It:
- Go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced Display.
- Choose Dynamic Refresh Rate from the dropdown menu.
- Enjoy smoother scrolling and improved energy efficiency.
5. Hidden Windows 11 Feature: Virtual Desktop Customization
Customize each virtual desktop with unique wallpapers, names, and applications to create distinct workspaces. This feature is especially useful for organizing different aspects of your workflow, such as work projects, personal browsing, and entertainment.
How to Personalize It:
- Press Windows + Tab.
- Right-click on a desktop and select Rename.
- Set different wallpapers for each desktop.
- Open the desired apps on each virtual desktop.
- Switch seamlessly between different work environments.
6. Built-in Emoji & GIF Keyboard: Add Personality to Your Messages
Express yourself easily with Windows 11’s built-in emoji, GIF, and symbol keyboard. This feature is useful for both casual and professional communication, allowing for quick access to expressive visuals.
How to Access It:
- Press Windows + . (Period) or Windows + ; (Semicolon).
- Choose from emojis, GIFs, and symbols.
- Use the search function to find the perfect emoji quickly.
7. Storage Sense: Keep Your System Clutter-Free
Automatically free up space by deleting temporary files, unused items, and system cache with Storage Sense. You can set up automatic cleanup schedules to ensure your system always has optimal storage.
How to Enable It:
- Go to Settings > System > Storage.
- Toggle Storage Sense on and customize cleanup preferences.
- Click Configure Storage Sense to set up frequency and folders for automatic cleanups.
8. Power Automate: Simplify Repetitive Tasks
Power Automate helps streamline repetitive tasks like file organization, data entry, or email notifications. With pre-built templates and an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, even beginners can create automation flows.
How to Use It:
- Search for Power Automate Desktop in the Start menu.
- Use built-in templates or create custom workflows with drag-and-drop actions.
- Test and run your workflow to automate tasks effortlessly.
- Increase efficiency by automating complex processes.
To know more: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/power-automate/getting-started
9. Hidden Windows 11 Feature: Enhanced Privacy Dashboard
Windows 11 now includes an improved privacy dashboard that shows which apps access your microphone, camera, and location. The dashboard logs app activity, displaying timestamps and usage details, helping you take control of your privacy.
How to Access It:
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security.
- Review app permissions and activity.
- Use the toggle switches to grant or revoke permissions instantly.
- Regularly review activity logs for suspicious behavior.
10. Night Light: Reduce Eye Strain
Reduce eye strain by enabling Night Light, which adjusts your screen’s color temperature in the evening. This feature is particularly useful for those who work late at night or spend extended hours in front of the screen, as it reduces the amount of blue light emitted by your display. Studies suggest that excessive exposure to blue light can disrupt sleep patterns and cause eye fatigue. By activating Night Light, you can create a warmer color tone that is easier on the eyes, making it more comfortable to read, work, or browse in low-light conditions. Additionally, you can customize the intensity and schedule it to turn on automatically based on sunset and sunrise in your location or set custom hours to match your routine.
How to Enable It:
- Go to Settings > System > Display.
- Toggle on Night Light and set your schedule.
11. Voice Typing: Dictate Instead of Typing
Dictate text in any text field using Windows 11’s built-in speech recognition. It’s a useful tool for accessibility and productivity, especially for those who prefer hands-free interaction.
How to Use It:
- Press Windows + H to enable voice typing.
- Start speaking, and the text will appear in the selected field.
- Use punctuation commands for more precise transcription.
12. Nearby Sharing: Share Files Wirelessly
Share files wirelessly between Windows devices using Nearby Sharing—no USB drives or email needed. This feature is perfect for quick file transfers between nearby computers.
How to Enable It:
- Go to Settings > System > Nearby Sharing.
- Select Everyone Nearby or My Devices Only.
- Right-click a file, select Share, and choose the nearby device.
13. Hidden Windows 11 Feature: Startup Apps Manager for a Faster Boot
Control which apps launch automatically when you start your PC. Managing startup apps can significantly reduce boot time and improve performance.
How to Access It:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Startup.
- Toggle apps on or off.
14. Windows Sandbox: Test Software Safely
Test applications or browse suspicious websites in an isolated environment without affecting your main system. It’s like having a disposable Windows environment.
How to Enable It:
- Search for Windows Features in the Start menu.
- Check Windows Sandbox and restart your PC.
- Launch Windows Sandbox from the Start menu.
15. Game Mode: Optimize Gaming Performance
Optimize system performance while gaming by disabling background tasks and prioritizing gaming applications.
How to Enable It:
- Go to Settings > Gaming > Game Mode.
- Toggle Game Mode on.
- Press Windows + G to open the Xbox Game Bar.
Final Thoughts
Windows 11 is packed with features that go beyond the basics. By using these hidden tools, you can enhance productivity, customize your experience, and improve security in 2025. From organizing your workspace with virtual desktops to automating repetitive tasks, each feature adds value to your workflow.
Microsoft continues to introduce updates that improve functionality, so staying informed about these features ensures you never miss out on the latest enhancements. Whether you’re looking to streamline tasks, protect your privacy, or optimize performance, mastering these hidden features will help you get the most out of your Windows 11 experience.