-
To turn on Voice Focus for Windows 11, open
Settings
>
System
>
Sound
, open microphone properties, and turn on
Voice Focus
(NPU) or turn on the option to use software-based noise cancellation. - This feature is available starting with version 24H2, and it s only available on some devices.
When utilizing a microphone in noisy settings where background noise can disrupt your voice, you can turn on Voice Focus on Windows 11 to cut down on background noise.
Voice Focus is a Windows Studio Effects noise-cancelling function that is accessible on Windows 11 24H2 and later versions. By lowering background noise in real time, the feature is intended to improve audio quality during recordings or calls.
There are two versions of the function available from Microsoft, and they are both named the same. One alternative uses a neural processing unit (NPU) to process microphone audio using on-device artificial intelligence (AI) in order to minimize noise and improve the clarity of your speech. By using software to cut down on microphone background noise, the second solution offers a comparable experience without the need for an NPU. The capabilities of your machine will determine which of these options are available.
I’ll walk you through the simple process of turning on Voice Focus in Windows 11 in this post.
Enable Voice Focus on Windows 11
Follow these instructions to activate Voice Focus on Windows 11 (24H2):
OpenSettings on Windows 11.
Select “System.”
To access the Soundpage, click it.
In the Input section, select the microphone that is currently in use.
Go to the Audio Enhancements setting and click.
(Option 1) To eliminate background noise, employ AI with an NPU by turning on the Voice Focus toggle switch.
(Option 2) Activate the Voice Focus toggle switch to minimize background noise using software-based methods.
By using AI or software to eliminate background noise, Voice Focus will assist you in improving the audio quality the next time you use your microphone for a voice or video chat or recording.
These steps can also be found in my YouTube channel’s video guide. (Remember to subscribe and like.)
Voice Focus should not be confused with Voice Clarity or Voice Access. Despite being input device features, they are distinct and appropriate for various contexts.
You must manually activate Voice Focus, which eliminates background noise and comes in two variants based on the hardware of the computer.
With the use of artificial intelligence (AI), Voice Clarity improves your voice by processing microphone audio to produce richer tones and more distinct details. On compatible devices, this feature operates automatically; no configuration is necessary.
When attempting to understand the other two functions, the name of Voice Access, a completely separate capability, can be perplexing. You can use your voice to manage your computer thanks to an accessibility feature called Voice Access. It’s especially helpful for those who have trouble using a mouse or keyboard or have restricted mobility.
You may not be using Windows 11 24H2 or your computer hardware may not support Voice Focus if you are unable to locate either of the Voice Focus options.