Better late than never as they say: Microsoft is testing a new screen recording tool to capture content on the screen Windows 11. The long-awaited utility will find its home in the native Snipping Tool.
Before that, people mostly used the Xbox Game Bar’s capture feature, but it doesn’t offer much control over what or how you can record. What’s most interesting about the upcoming feature (opens in new tab) is that users now have that much-needed control. Like the snippet, you can select areas of the screen or a specific app to focus on before recording, which can save you a ton of time while editing.
Currently, the feature is only available through the Dev Channel of the Windows Insider Program. It also rolls out in waves, so not everyone will have it initially. If you do get it, the Snipping Tool has a new record button next to Snip. You can preview the video you just shot before saving or sharing it with others.
Fix bugs
Microsoft admits that the tool is a bit buggy in its current state. The announcement mentions a slight delay between clicking Start and when the actual recording begins. And apparently there are times when the Snipping Tool window doesn’t return after “initiating a new snip…” Microsoft asks users to report any new Snipping Tool bugs to them via the feedb (opens in new tab)a (opens in new tab)ck Hub (opens in new tab).
Speaking of bugs, Windows 11 has new patches available through the Insider program that we have to mention. They are divided two separate preview builds: Construction 22621.1028 and 22623.1028. In the two patches, the updates are minor quality of life changes that address consistency issues and improve power plan recommendations. Please note that the patches are still in preview at the time of writing and there are still some issues to work out.
It is unknown when the screen recorder will be officially launched, although it will probably be a while yet. We asked Microsoft if it could at least give us a release window, but a company representative told us the company is keeping its lips closed for now.
If you don’t want to wait and want a third-party solution, Best Product has recently been updated best free screen recorders for both Windows and Mac. We even list the most important features to look for when choosing one.