- Microsoft is bringing its Voice Clarity feature to every Windows 11 computer.
- The feature uses AI to reduce background noise and enhance speech for communication applications.
- Voice Clarity is available now as a preview on Windows 11 build 26040 and higher releases.
Microsoft is working to bring its Voice Clarity feature to all Windows 11 users. In the latest preview of Windows 11 (build 26040), the software giant announced that it would no longer make its advanced audio processing feature exclusive to Surface devices, and it’ll become available for every computer with compatible hardware in future releases of the operating system.
What is Voice Clarity?
Voice Clarity is a feature designed to improve the audio quality of voice calls. Using “low complexity AI models” reduces background noise and enhances speech, ensuring clear conversations even in noisy environments. This is particularly beneficial for remote workers and students who often find themselves in less-than-ideal audio conditions during Zoom or Teams meetings.
How does it work?
Utilizing AI, Voice Clarity isolates the user’s voice from background noise. Whether it’s traffic noise, construction, or just the general hum of a busy coffee place, this feature filters out unwanted sounds, delivering your voice crisp and clear to the other side of the call.
Also, thanks to this technology, you can more freely stand up and walk around, knowing that your voice will clearly reach your audience.
Compatibility and Requirements
Voice Clarity is now available as a preview for Windows 11 devices enrolled in the Canary Channel. Although the feature requires special hardware, as it is part of the “Windows Studio Effects,” users should be able to try out the feature without the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) on devices featuring AMD, Intel, and ARM processors.
It’s important to note that Windows 11 comes with Voice Clarity turned on by default, meaning that you don’t have to dig into the settings to turn on anything, and you can use it with any Communications Signal Processing Mode app, such as WhatsApp and Phone Link.
Furthermore, on apps that already use Communications Signal Processing Mode, you don’t need to modify anything, and the feature will work on devices that do not offer the mode processing capability. Microsoft also notes that games can also take advantage of Voice Clarity for voice chatting.
This is not the only AI-powered that Microsoft is working on. In 2024, the company is expected to push many AI-powered features to Windows 11, including a more advanced version of Copilot that will enhance the search experience and help you jump-start a new project quickly. The rumor is that the operating system will also include new features such as Timeline, Super Resolution, and a desktop background powered by AI, to name a few.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].