All Users Can Now Access a Windows 11 AI Feature Without the Need for Special Hardware

By Maggie On Jan 27, 2024

Microsoft excitedly announced that Voice Clarity, an artificial intelligence feature exclusive to Surface, will soon be available on all Windows 11 computers. This feature, known for its ability to use “rudimentary artificial intelligence models” to improve voice quality during phone calls, will be available initially. It will be limited to Surface devices with ARM processors, such as the Surface Pro 9 5G and Surface Pro X. However, with Windows 11 Canary Channel build 26040, Voice Clarity will be extended to computers with older Intel and ARM processors.

Sound Clarity works seamlessly in the background using artificial intelligence algorithms to suppress background noise, eliminate echo, and instantly reduce reverberation. This development is not limited to a specific application because it works at the system level with all applications that use standard communication signals.

This includes voice chat in popular games; This way, users can take advantage of Voice Clarity without having to wait for developers to integrate support into their projects. However, developers can still use the switch to allow users to change the voice communication AI model in their applications.

Sound Clarity is part of the Windows Studio Effects suite, which consists of a set of enhancements that are based on machine algorithms and require special neural processing units (NPUs). The package includes features such as video background effects, eye contact, auto-framing, and audio enhancement. With the release of Windows 11 build 26040, users whose computers do not have an NPU can now check out some improvements.

Microsoft joins industry leaders such as Qualcomm, AMD, and Intel in making significant progress in bringing artificial intelligence to modern computers. In the future, consumers can expect more computers equipped with AI processor chips. Microsoft is also expected to release a new version of Windows with “broken” artificial intelligence.

Some of these features will work on existing computers, while some will require new chips in new devices. Additionally, 16GB of RAM is said to be standard for AI PCs. The partnership between these technology companies reflects the ongoing commitment to advancing AI technology and delivering a great user experience across the computing ecosystem.