Windows 11 has made significant strides in accessibility, ensuring that everyone can utilize its powerful features. Whether you’re a new or experienced user, the operating system has various tools designed to assist individuals with disabilities, enhance user experience, and promote inclusivity. Let's take a look at the hidden accessibility features of Windows 11.
While many features are prominently displayed, several hidden gems can transform how users interact with their devices. In this article, we will delve into these hidden accessibility features of Windows 11 and how they can improve usability and productivity.
Narrator
Narrator, Windows' built-in screen reader, has received notable enhancements in Windows 11. Although many know about Narrator, not all users know its improved features. For instance, Narrator now supports a broad range of languages, and its voice options have been substantially upgraded with more natural-sounding speech.
Speaking of voices, Narrator now allows you to download additional natural and legacy voices. Additionally, users can easily customize speech speed, pitch, and volume via the Narrator settings and have the ability to control the verbosity of the spoken text.
Users can also choose to have more or less detail spoken to suit their preferences. Furthermore, if you wish to navigate more seamlessly, you can use the Scan Mode that allows keyboard users to quickly interact with different elements on the screen. Scan mode can be extremely helpful when you use Outlook, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox.
Focus
Focus is a powerful feature that helps minimize distractions by suppressing notifications while working, gaming, or focusing on a specific task. Many users may not realize that Focus can be customized to provide tailored experiences. Along with blocking notifications, sounds and alerts, you can also play music and podcasts through the Spotify app.
To access this feature, head over to Settings > System > Focus. Here, you can configure rules about which notifications to allow when Focus is active. The feature mainly benefits neurodiverse individuals, including those with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or learning differences that need a clutter-free environment to concentrate.
Magnifier
While many Windows users are familiar with the Magnifier tool for zooming in on content, Windows 11 has introduced some notable enhancements under the hood. The Magnifier now has three (3) viewing modes: docked, full screen, and lens (it follows your cursor).
Additionally, the Magnifier allows inverting colors to make content more legible for users with visual impairments. It also can be set to smooth the edges of images and text. You can customize the settings under Settings > Accessibility > Magnifier.
Voice access
Voice access allows anyone, including those with mobility disabilities, to control their computer and dictate text using only their voice. Voice access can be turned on or off by using the Windows logo key 
+ Ctrl + S and can be set to start before or after you sign in to your computer.
Part of Voice access is Voice typing, which revolutionizes how users can input text into their devices, making it an invaluable tool for those struggling with traditional typing methods. Windows 11 has elevated this feature, making it more responsive and capable of accurately recognizing a wider array of speech patterns.
To activate Voice Typing, press the Windows logo key + H in any text field; this will bring up the Voice Typing interface. Its ability to punctuate automatically and understand context makes it not only a practical tool for accessibility but also an efficient way to write emails or documents.
Visual effects
Windows 11 includes a host of visual effects that users often overlook. These effects can significantly improve the user experience for individuals with visual impairments. For instance, you can adjust transparency effects and turn animations on or off to make navigation smoother.
To access these settings, go to Settings > Accessibility > Visual Effects. Here, you can enable Show transparency in Windows to improve contrast, toggle off animations, and allow the ability to always to show scrollbars to offer a more straightforward experience. These minor adjustments can ease visual strain and create a more manageable workspace.
Keyboard shortcuts
Many users are unaware of the extensive range of keyboard shortcuts that can facilitate more straightforward navigation through Windows 11’s accessibility features. These shortcuts improve efficiency and accommodate users who may find mouse navigation challenging.
For example, pressing the Windows logo key + U opens the Accessibility settings directly. Users can memorize shortcuts for Voice Typing (Windows logo key + H), Magnifier (Windows logo key + + (plus), and Narrator (Windows logo key + Ctrl + Enter) to streamline their workflow. Familiarizing yourself with these shortcuts will empower you to navigate your device more efficiently.
Click here for a complete list of Windows logo key shortcuts for Windows 11.
Color filters
Windows 11 has taken inclusive design a step further by implementing Color filters that assist users with color blindness. Under Settings > Accessibility > Color filters, you can choose from various options that optimize the screen for users with difficulty distinguishing colors.
Included in Windows 11 are color filters for people with Deuteranopia and Protanopia (the ability to distinguish between red and green) and Tritanopia (the ability to distinguish between blue and green and yellow and red) along with grayscale, grayscale inverted and inverted.
This feature is significant for individuals requiring adaptations for color recognition at school or work. It can make all the difference for those learning with color-coded materials or needing clarity in graphic-based content.
Cognitive accessibility
Beyond physical and visual accessibility features, Windows 11 also strives to accommodate cognitive diversity. Simple adjustments, such as the ability to customize the color of Windows and the Taskbar, combined with ease of navigation through simplified interfaces, can significantly enhance usability for individuals with cognitive disabilities.
The Accessibility suite is designed to meet specific needs, allowing users to choose the best environment suited to their cognitive requirements. Users with ADHD and ASD are just a few of the Windows 11 users who can benefit from these features.
Windows 11 has accessibility features that can benefit a diverse range of users. By taking the time to explore hidden functionality, you can unlock a more tailored and productive experience. With tools like Narrator, Magnifier, Voice access, and visual effects, this operating system is continuously evolving to meet the varied needs of all its users. Embracing these accessible options can empower individuals to interact with technology more effectively, fostering an inclusive digital environment. Whether you're adapting for yourself or someone else, Windows 11 offers powerful resources for everyone.