Microsoft Windows 11 To Get Background Blur, Eye Contact, Noise Reduction For Video Calls

Microsoft unveiled a host of features for Windows 11 at its hybrid work event. Besides announcing Windows 365 Cloud PC Integration for its latest operating system, the company is bringing four new video-related functions. These include background noise suppression, eye contact, framing, and background blur. They are set to grace Qualcomm devices first by making use of neural processing unit (NPU) chips.

Paul Barr, principal group product manager for Windows, highlights the role of NPUs for the new features as they “run locally on a device, it means they’re available across Windows 11 apps with minimal performance or battery life demands, and you can trust they will respect your privacy”.

Noise Reduction

Although Microsoft Teams already supports noise suppression, with Voice Focus being incorporated into Windows 11, the feature will be extended to all apps and will automatically eliminate unwanted audio during meetings.

Also Read: Microsoft Windows 11 Is Getting Native Windows 365 Cloud PC Integration

Eye Contact

Additionally, Microsoft’s eye contact feature will no longer remain exclusive to the Surface Pro X, and will soon be available on compatible devices. The function uses AI to automatically adjust where your eyes are looking, making it appear as though you’re always making eye contact with the camera. This could be particularly useful if you’re distracted by your cat being adorable, or you’re glancing at your notes, or even if you’re just admiring your own image at the bottom of the screen.

Background Blur And Automatic Framing

The software giant is also incorporating portrait background blur and automatic framing to Windows 11. The background blur feature will make your surroundings appear hazy, bringing you more into focus. Automatic framing is similar to Apple’s Center Stage function, which keeps you in the frame even if you’re moving about.

These features will only run on devices with a neural processing unit (NPU). So, we can expect them to arrive first on Lenovo’s ThinkPad X13s which comes with Qualcomm’s 8cx Gen 3 chip.