Windows 11 Win + Shift + S Feature Update: Annotate Your Screen Now Available for All Users

Windows 11 Win + Shift + S Feature Update: Annotate Your Screen Now Available for All Users

One of the standout features of Windows 11 is the quick screenshot functionality, triggered by the Win + Shift + S shortcut. Recently, this feature received a significant upgrade with the introduction of live annotations, as noted by Windows Latest. This update enables users to customize their screen captures directly in real-time, adding various objects and highlights as needed.

While the ability to annotate screenshots on Windows 11 isn’t entirely new—Microsoft has long provided tools for capturing and marking up images via the Snipping Tool and Paint—the latest updates streamline the process. Previously, users had to first save their screenshots or open an application before applying annotations. The enhancements in Snipping Tool version v11.2508.28.0 alleviate this cumbersome step.

Quick Markup Snipping Tool

Initiating the screenshot mode is straightforward with the Win + Shift + S combination or the print screen button. Upon activation, users will be prompted to explore the new Quick Markup feature. Under this mode, rather than automatically capturing and storing the screenshot, users can select an area, and a floating toolbar will appear to facilitate live annotation.

Annotation Floating Bar Snipping Tool

The floating toolbar presents a variety of options, which include:

  • Bing reverse image search
  • Sending the screenshot to Windows 11’s Copilot app
  • On-screen drawing tools
  • Highlighting text
  • Inserting additional annotations

If these options seem familiar, you might recognize them from Microsoft Edge’s screenshot tools. What’s truly innovative is how Microsoft has simplified the annotation process within the Windows 11 environment itself.

Exploring the New Quick Markup Tool

Within the Quick Markup toolbar, the first feature available is “Capture.” This function allows users to either save their screenshot to a specified folder or simply copy it to their clipboard.

Quick Markup Snipping Tool Capture Modes

Another notable feature is Share, which permits users to easily copy and share their screenshots via various applications, including WhatsApp. This method ensures that screenshots do not clutter your local storage as they are not saved automatically. Users can share images through email or messaging platforms without the hassle of later file management.

The floating bar also provides tools for visual searches with Bing and the Copilot app. Although these require an internet connection, they enhance the utility of the screenshots with advanced options for annotations, including shapes, emojis, and an eraser for editing.

At present, the floating toolbar lacks a Text Extractor option, which would certainly enhance its functionality. However, users can expect this feature to be integrated into future updates of Windows 11.

Snipping Tool AI Text Extractor

How to Access the Live Screen Annotation Feature

To utilize the live screen annotation feature on Windows 11, simply employ the screenshot shortcut Win + Shift + S. If you have not yet received this upgrade, ensure that you have the Snipping Tool version v11.2508.28.0 or later, which can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store.

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