Microsoft recently released the latest security update for Windows 11, dated April 9, 2024, under the reference KB5036893. This update is essential for enhancing the security and stability of the operating system, with specific focus on OS Builds 22621.3447 and 22631.3447. Let's delve into the details of this update and its implications for Windows 11 users.
Release Date and Significant Changes
- Release Date: April 9, 2024
- Version: OS Builds 22621.3447 and 22631.3447 This update comes with important information regarding the end of non-security updates for Windows 11, version 22H2, specifically mentioning new deadlines for different editions of Windows 11, version 22H2. Enterprises and Education editions now have an extended end date until June 24, 2025, while Home and Pro editions will receive non-security preview updates until June 26, 2024. These adjustments aim to offer users more time to leverage the continuous innovations in the Windows ecosystem.
Enhanced Voice Access Features
- Multiple Language Support: Users can now utilize voice access in various languages including French (France, Canada), German, and Spanish (Spain, Mexico). Even if a suitable speech model corresponding to the display language is not available, voice access can still be utilized in English (US) and other languages through settings adjustments.
- Multi-Display Support: All voice access features can now be employed across multiple displays, enabling a seamless user experience with number and grid overlays, mouse grid commands, and drag-and-drop functionality between screens.
- Voice Shortcuts: Introducing voice shortcuts or custom commands, allowing users to create personalized commands in supported English dialects for an enhanced and tailored user experience.
Narrator Enhancements
- Voice Previews: Users can preview ten natural voices before downloading them, ensuring compatibility and selecting preferred voices on Windows 365 Cloud PCs.
- Improved Image Recognition: Enhanced detection of text in images, including handwriting, and improved image descriptions through active internet connections and the appropriate settings configurations.
Windows Share and Nearby Share Improvements
- Expanded App Options: Changes to the Windows share window app display based on the signing-in account, showcasing relevant apps such as Microsoft Teams with distinguishing between personal and work/school accounts.
- Enhanced Nearby Sharing: Improved transfer speeds for users, support for public and private network sharing, and the ability to assign friendly device names for easier identification during sharing.
Other Noteworthy Updates
- Cast Feature: Users can now easily cast content from their device's screen to nearby external displays wirelessly, facilitating multitasking and overall user convenience.
- Windows 365 Boot and Switch Enhancements: Dedicated modes for efficient sign-in experiences, improved management settings, and ease of disconnecting from Cloud PCs along with enhanced indicators for Cloud PC presence.
Additional Details and Known Issues
The update incorporates miscellaneous security enhancements and improvements to the servicing stack, critical for a robust and reliable update installation process. However, it's important to note several known issues post-update installation, such as difficulties changing account profile pictures and VPN connection failures. For a more detailed overview of the addressed issues, guidance on update installation, and resolution steps for known issues, refer to the official documentation provided by Microsoft. Stay tuned for further updates and improvements in the Windows 11 ecosystem, ensuring a secure and immersive user experience.
Source: Microsoft Support - KB5036893