Three weeks ago, we reported on the implementation of functions based on artificial intelligence in none other than the good old Microsoft Paint, and we mentioned in passing that other Windows tools would soon be reinforced by AI. Specifically, we noticed that the Snipping Tool was on this list.
Now, we can expand information about it, because Microsoft has already started updating Clippings among users belonging to the Canary and Dev channels of the Insiders Program. Its big news? Allow users to select and copy text from screenshots thanks to the new OCR functionality (acronym for ‘optical character recognition’).
And don’t worry, you don’t need to install any additional software, it just takes a while: since Clippings is an application pre-installed by default in Windows, over time all users will have access to this feature.
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That’s how it works
This feature, called ‘Text Actions’ (Text Actions), is available starting with version 11.2308.33.0 of the tool, as explained by Dave Grochocki, Principal Product Manager Lead of Windows Inbox Apps:
“We’re introducing Text Actions, which detects text in your screenshots, making it easy to copy text from any image to share with others or paste into another app. To get started, click the Text Actions button in the toolbar to display selectable text before selecting and copying the text with the mouse.
There is no need to enter the Insiders program: this function will end up reaching all Windows 11 users
Once the update has been deployed, the Snipping Tool application will allow you to select and copy text using the “Copy all text” button in the toolbar or by using keyboard shortcuts such as Ctrl + A and Ctrl + C.
Hiding sensitive information
Additionally, it offers redact capabilities to remove sensitive information from screenshots before sharing: You can click “Quick Redact” in the toolbar, which will automatically hide emails and phone numbers present in the captured text.
Likewise, you can also select the text you want to hide and click on “Redact Text” in the context menu by right-clicking.
Capturing text with Android
Grochocki also announced that members of the Insiders Program will be automatically invited to use the Clippings app to edit any capture… taken with your Android device.
This new feature will only work if your computer is connected to your Android device via Mobile Link (the old ‘Your Phone’), a companion app designed to forward notifications, take calls on your desktop, and use your mobile apps from your PC.
Images | Microsoft
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