Microsoft is preparing a new practical feature for Windows 11 that could significantly facilitate checking the quality of the Internet connection. As part of the latest update for Windows 11 Insiders users in the Release Preview channel, the company is testing a built-in network speed measurement tool, accessible directly from the taskbar.
A new option appears when right-clicking on the network icon in the lower right corner of the taskbar. In the context menu there is a speed test item, which then opens the result in the Internet browser. The tool allows you to check the connection speed regardless of whether Ethernet, Wi-Fi or mobile network is used.
Internet speed test directly from the Windows 11 taskbar
Microsoft has been testing this function since last year, and the goal is for users to get a simple and fast alternative for checking the speed, without having to visit other websites or special applications. In everyday use, this means fewer steps and faster insight into the real state of the network, especially in situations where connection problems occur.
In addition to this tool, the same update brings several additional novelties. A new section for cameras appears in system settings, which allows pan and tilt control for supported models, although Microsoft does not provide an exact list of compatible devices for now. Also, Windows 11 gets new emojis, an improved display of settings for Widgets in full screen size, as well as the ability to set .webp files as wallpaper.
Although the new speed test feature is currently limited to Windows Insider users, it is expected to become available to all Windows 11 OS users in one of the next stable releases. If testing goes well, checking your internet speed could become a routine part of the standard Windows experience, reports The Verge.