Microsoft adds more default apps to Windows 11

Microsoft today released a new Insider Build for Windows 11 and with it comes two new apps that will be default apps in Windows 11 going forward on many PCs. The two apps in question are Microsoft Family and Clipchamp.

The default Windows apps are designed to provide functionality out of the box. Common applications such as Notepad for plain text editing, Windows Media Player for media playback, and Snip & Sketch for screen capture add support for common tasks to Windows. Windows users can download and install third-party apps, which often come with enhanced functionality and better support.

While some default apps provide support for activities and tasks common to Windows PCs right after installation, others may be included for different purposes.

clipchamp

Clipchamp is one of two new apps Microsoft built into the latest Insider build for Windows 11. Microsoft acquired the service last year and has now built it into the operating system.

Clipchamp is a subscription video editing service. The app has been published on the Microsoft Store at the end of 2020, and Windows users can download and install it right now. A Microsoft account is required to use the app, and the base version is limited in a number of ways. All Clipchamp plans support unlimited video production, using local assets, using webcam and screen recording capabilities, and access to all basic editing tools.

The main limitation of the free plan is that exports are limited to 480p resolution. Users who want better quality results can sign up for the Creator or Business plans. Creator supports 720p and 1080p exports for business. The creator plan is available for $9/month, the business plan for $19/month. Also, the basic and creator outputs are watermarked. Clipchamp supports other features such as the ability to use text-to-speech powered by Azure or integration with online storage services in the paid versions.

Microsoft family

Microsoft Family is the second app to be added to Windows 11. Unlike Clipchamp, which is added to Home and Pro editions, Microsoft Family is installed only on Home editions by default. Professional users can go to Settings > Accounts > Family to download the app on their systems.

Microsoft Family brings parental controls and family management features to the operating system. Family managers can use it to set parental controls, filter “inappropriate apps and games,” and set up kid-friendly browsing on Edge. The app helps families manage and monitor their kids’ activity on Windows, Xbox, and Android devices.

closing words

With each new default application, one must ask whether it makes sense to integrate it natively into Windows or distribute it in other ways. Microsoft might advertise the Family app in Settings or during searches, instead of natively integrating it. Clipchamp integration is on another level as it is a subscription based service. Critics may say that its integration has more to do with Microsoft’s attempt to increase revenue from the service and not with delivering a useful video editor to all users of the platform.

It’s pretty easy to ignore apps or, in the case of Windows 11 Pro, not install the Family app on the device. Still, these apps take up storage space and can also show up in searches.

Now you: What’s your take on these two new default apps for Windows?

advertising