Ever found yourself working in a coffee shop or on a train and felt like someone was peeking at your screen?
It’s a real concern when you’re handling sensitive emails, confidential files, or simply want privacy.
Microsoft is working on a new feature for Windows 11 called Onlooker Detection. It uses your laptop’s sensors to spot when someone else is looking at your screen and alerts you. In some cases, it can even dim the display to make it harder for them to see.
This builds on Windows’ existing Presence Sensing technology, which locks or dims your screen when you step away and wakes it up when you return. Onlooker Detection takes it further by protecting your screen while you’re still using it.
The catch? Your laptop needs the right hardware – a presence sensor, often found in newer devices running Qualcomm, AMD, or Intel chips. You can check in Settings > System > Power & battery to see if your device supports it.
Microsoft hasn’t officially announced when this feature will roll out, but its already showing up in preview builds of Windows 11.
Privacy is a growing priority, and this kind of protection could be a simple but valuable upgrade for anyone who works in public spaces.
Would Onlooker Detection make you feel more secure when working on the go?
Need help making keeping your business data safe from prying eyes? Get in touch.
