Windows 11 introduces an impressive new accessibility feature called Voice Access that allows users to control their computer entirely through voice commands. This hands-free control option can be incredibly useful for those with mobility limitations or anyone looking to boost their productivity.
Setting Up Voice Access in Windows 11
To start using Voice Access, you’ll need to enable it in Windows Settings:
Step 1: Open the Windows Settings app by pressing Windows key + I.
Step 2: Navigate to Accessibility > Speech.
Step 3: Toggle on the “Voice access” switch.
Step 4: Windows will prompt you to download some required files. Click “Yes” to proceed.
Step 5: Once the download is complete, you’ll see a Voice Access toolbar appear at the top of your screen.
Step 6: Select your preferred microphone from the dropdown menu in the Voice Access settings.
Key Voice Commands for Navigating Windows
Voice Access recognizes a wide range of commands. Here are some essential ones to get you started:
Basic Navigation
- “Click [item name]” - Selects and clicks on visible items
- “Double-click [item name]” - Double-clicks an item
- “Right-click [item name]” - Performs a right-click
- “Scroll up/down” - Scrolls the active window
Window Management
- “Open [app name]” - Launches a specific application
- “Switch to [app name]” - Switches to an open application
- “Minimize window” - Minimizes the active window
- “Maximize window” - Maximizes the active window
- “Close window” - Closes the active window
Text Entry and Editing
- Just speak naturally to dictate text
- “Select [word or phrase]” - Selects specific text
- “Delete that” - Deletes the last thing you said or selected
- “Undo that” - Undoes the last action
Advanced Voice Access Features
Grid Overlay
For precise control, you can use the grid overlay feature:
Step 1: Say “Show grid” to display a numbered grid over your screen.
Step 2: Say the number of the grid section you want to zoom in on.
Step 3: Repeat until you’ve narrowed down to the exact item you want to interact with.
Step 4: Say a command like “Click” to perform an action at that location.
Custom Voice Commands
Voice Access allows you to create custom commands for frequently used actions:
Step 1: Say “Open Voice Access settings”
Step 2: Navigate to the “Custom commands” section
Step 3: Click “Add a command” and specify the phrase and corresponding keyboard shortcut or action
Troubleshooting Voice Access
If you’re having trouble with Voice Access, try these tips:
- Ensure your microphone is properly connected and selected in Windows sound settings
- Speak clearly and at a consistent volume
- Minimize background noise in your environment
- If commands aren’t being recognized, try restarting the Voice Access feature or your computer
Privacy Considerations
Voice Access processes all voice commands locally on your device, so your speech data isn’t sent to Microsoft’s servers. However, be mindful of using voice commands in public spaces or when discussing sensitive information.
Voice Access in Windows 11 opens up new possibilities for hands-free computer control. With practice, you might find it becomes a natural and efficient way to interact with your PC.