Exciting Updates in Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 22621.575 & 22622.575

Hello WindowsForum.com community! Microsoft has just released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25252 to the Dev Channel, bringing a fresh set of improvements and fixes post the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday break. Below, we dive into the key changes, fixes, and known issues that come with this latest build.

Key Highlights:​

  • Cumulative Update Build 25252.1010 (KB5021855): This update doesn’t include new features and is primarily designed for testing the servicing pipeline for Dev Channel builds.
  • New VPN Status Indicator: A new glanceable VPN status icon will now appear in the system tray when connected to a recognized VPN
    profile. The icon, a small shield, overlays your system accent color over the active network connection.

Changes and Improvements:​

[Taskbar & System Tray]
  • VPN Status Indicator: When connected to a recognized VPN profile, a small shield icon will appear in your system accent color, providing quick visibility of your VPN status. [Search on the Taskbar]
  • Microsoft is experimenting with different designs for the search functionality on the taskbar. Insiders can switch between different search treatments by navigating to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar Items. Feedback on these treatments is encouraged through the Feedback Hub.

Fixes:​

[Taskbar & System
Tray]
  • Resolved multiple explorer.exe crashes impacting system tray performance.
  • Improved battery icon tooltip to inform users if the device is charging slowly.
  • Enhanced the taskbar’s touch optimization to make it easier for tablet users to expand the taskbar without triggering the Start menu. [Start Menu]
  • Fixed an issue causing folders in the Start menu not to open on the first attempt. [Other]
  • Solved issues causing SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION errors during upgrades.
  • Addressed problems where certain apps, like Media Player, would crash during media playback in the background.
  • Improved network-to-local file copying speeds for some users.

Known Issues:​

[General]
  • Widgets may disappear for
    some users, causing explorer.exe to crash in a loop. A workaround involves reinstalling the Widgets before upgrading or rolling back the build if affected.
  • Certain secondary drives and PCI devices may not be viewable or functional in Device Manager due to an error, pending a fix in a future build.
  • Some issues reported with audio not working and crashes in various apps and games.
  • Ongoing investigation into UI elements disappearing and reappearing in apps. [Taskbar & System Tray]
  • Tablet-optimized taskbar may appear cropped in half.
  • Bluetooth section in Quick Settings may crash, recommending use of Settings > Bluetooth & Devices
    for now. [Task Manager]
  • Filtering by publisher on the Processes page may not match correctly.
  • Light and dark content might not display correctly, leading to unreadable text. Switching to a standard Light or Dark mode can temporarily fix this. [Widgets]
  • Display issues in right-to-left languages like Arabic, where content animates out of view before the widgets board resizes.

Important Information for Insiders:​

The Dev Channel builds represent early work that might never be released to the public. Builds in this channel are not always stable and may contain issues that require workarounds. It is critical to read known issues in​

the release notes to avoid major disruptions. For the comprehensive details and official release notes, visit the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25252. Stay tuned to WindowsForum.com for more updates and discussions on the latest Windows builds!
 
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Hello WindowsForum.com members! Exciting news comes from the Windows Insider Blog. Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 22621.1028 and 22623.1028 (KB5021866) to the Beta Channel. This update targets Windows Insiders with some significant changes and bug fixes. Here's what you need to know:

Build Highlights​

  • Build 22623.1028: Features are rolling out gradually.
  • Build 22621.1028: New features are disabled by default.

December 2022 Bug Bash​

Starting December 7th, participate in the Bug Bash event by completing quests in the Feedback Hub. This event will run until December 12th. Those who participate will earn a badge in the
Feedback Hub.

Key Fixes in Build 22623.1028​

General​

  • Addressed issues causing explorer.exe crashes in safe mode.

Taskbar & System Tray​

  • Taskbar Auto-hide: Resolved an issue where auto-hiding the taskbar failed after interacting with the hidden icons flyout.
  • Tablet Mode: Enhanced taskbar usability and animations for tablet devices, including more reliable collapsing after launching apps and refinement in expanding without invoking the Start menu.
  • Miscellaneous Fixes: Numerous fixes including addressing explorer.exe crash with Alt + F4 in system tray, update to battery icon tooltip for slow charging notifications, and interface improvements.

Search​

  • Fixed an issue with search functionality on Arm64 PCs.

Settings​

  • Corrected inconsistencies in sleep recommendations on Energy Recommendations and Battery & Power pages.

Task Manager​

  • Fixed light and dark mode display issues for users in Custom mode.

Fixes in Both Builds 22621.1028 & 22623.1028​

  • Resolved GPU performance issues affecting some games and applications.

Known Issues​

  • Taskbar & System Tray: Delay in switching to touch-optimized taskbar.
  • Task Manager: Search box can make Task Manager unresponsive, filtering issues by publisher name, and rendering issues with certain dialogs and content areas.

Additional Information​

The Beta Channel is closer to the final release experience but also includes features that might not be present​

in the final release. Insiders can obtain features on Build 22623.xxxx by checking for updates and selecting the appropriate build. For more details and to see which build your device is on, visit the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1028 and 22623.1028. Stay up-to-date and explore more insights on Windows 11 development by checking out additional resources and documentation through the Window Insider Program. Thanks for reading, Amanda & Brandon
Be sure to share your experiences with these new builds here on WindowsForum.com, and don't forget to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub to help further improve Windows 11!
 
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Hello WindowsForum.com community! We're excited to share the latest updates from Microsoft regarding the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25262. Released to the Dev Channel, this build brings a host of improvements, fixes, and new features curated for Windows Insiders. Let’s dive into the details!

December 2022 Bug Bash​

One of the highlights of this release is the December 2022 Bug Bash, running until December 12th. Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels are encouraged to participate by filing feedback and completing quests via the Feedback Hub. Participants will earn a special badge in the Feedback Hub after
the event concludes.

Key Updates in Build 25262​

Widgets​

  • Sign-In Requirement Removed: The sign-in requirement for accessing the Widgets board has been eliminated. Now, all users can enjoy weather updates, pin widgets from their favorite apps, and access personalized feeds without needing an account.
    (https://via.placeholder.com/600x200[/IMG

Media Player​

  • Video Folders Improvement: Media Player has been updated to version 11.2211.34.0, introducing a feature that allows browsing through video library folders seamlessly.

Snipping Tool​

  • Screen Recording: The Snipping Tool now includes a screen recording feature, rolling out to Insiders in the Dev Channel.

Webcast​

Fixes and Improvements​

General​

  • Addressed an issue where missing Widgets app packages caused explorer.exe to crash in a loop.
  • Fixed visibility issues with secondary drives and other PCI devices.

Taskbar & System Tray​

  • Resolved taskbar auto-hide issues and enhanced system tray stability.

Search on the Taskbar​

  • Improved search performance and fixed issues related to search box display on multiple monitors.

Input​

  • Fixed mouse behavior when dragging a window to monitors with different DPIs.

File Explorer​

  • Resolved explorer.exe crashes when opening items from the Recent section.

Settings and Task​

Manager
  • Addressed various UI issues and improved performance metrics in Task Manager.

Known Issues​

Despite these improvements, some issues remain under investigation:
  • Taskbar & System Tray: Ongoing issues with taskbar cropping and Bluetooth section crashes in Quick Settings.
  • Search on the Taskbar: Visual artifacts and floating search box issues.
  • Task Manager: Filtering and theme application inconsistencies remain problematic.

For Developers​

Microsoft has also updated the Windows Insider SDK. Developers can find the latest packages and tools on the NuGet Gallery | Home for seamless CI/CD integration.

About the Dev Channel​

The Dev Channel is designed for experimental features that might not make​

it to the official Windows release. It’s a space for testing out new ideas and gathering user feedback. As always, builds in this channel might be unstable and include issues that can impact daily use. Make sure to review the Download Windows Insider Preview SDK and understand that switching from the Dev Channel to Beta or Release Preview requires a clean install. For detailed information and further reading, check out the full announcement on the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25262. Stay tuned for more updates and happy testing, Windows Insiders!
Amanda & Brandon
 
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Hello WindowsForum.com members! Microsoft has just announced the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1037 and Build 22623.1037 (KB5021304) to the Beta Channel. This is the last Beta Channel build before the holidays, with new builds expected to resume in January 2023. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new and improved in these builds.

Key Features and Improvements​

Differentiated Builds​

  • Build 22623.1037: Features are turned on by default.
  • Build 22621.1037: Features are off by default. Insiders on Build 22622 will be automatically upgraded to Build 22623 through an enablement package, helping differentiate builds with features turned on from those
    without.

Voice Access Improvements​

Build 22623.1037 brings significant enhancements to Voice Access:
  • New Interaction Support: UI controls with numbers, no spaces, or special characters can now be identified by voice. Examples include:
  • “Click 5” in the Calculator app.
  • “Click pivot table” in Excel.
  • “Click Bluetooth and devices” for settings containing special characters. [*Improved Scrolling:* The horizontal scroll experience now supports continuous scrolling similar to vertical scrolls. [Enhanced Control Interaction:** Commands like "click" can now interact with more UI controls such as spin controls and thumb controls.

Changes and Improvements in Both Builds​

[*Search on the Taskbar: Various treatments
for the search functionality on the taskbar are being trialed. Insiders experiencing these can provide feedback via Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar Items.

Fixes in Build 22623.1037​

[*Taskbar & System Tray:* Improved screen reader experience and fixed several explorer.exe crashes. [Task Manager:** Resolved the issue where Task Manager became unresponsive when using the search box.

Fixes in Both Builds​

[*Task Manager UI Colors:* Fixed issues where UI elements displayed unexpected colors if “Choose your mode” was set to “Custom.” [Data Protection API:** Addressed an issue causing VPN and other 802.1 certificate-based authentication failures due to incorrect DPAPI master
key encryption.

Known Issues​

[*Search on the Taskbar: Users may encounter rendering issues and visual artifacts.
  • Task Manager: Issues include improper filtering by publisher, some services not showing, and dialogs not rendering in the correct theme.

Insight for Windows Users​

These insider builds provide an exciting glimpse into upcoming features and improvements in Windows 11. Voice Access enhancements and improved Task Manager features are particularly noteworthy for users seeking better accessibility and system management. For more detailed insights, ongoing updates, and feedback opportunities, stay tuned to the Beta Channel and contribute your feedback through Feedback Hub (WIN + F). For
further details, you can refer to the official announcement Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1037 and 22623.1037. Happy testing, and see you all in the new year with more updates!
 
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Hello WindowsForum.com members, Exciting news for Windows Insiders! Microsoft has just released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1095 and Build 22623.1095 (KB5022364) to the Beta Channel. Here's everything you need to know about these new builds:

Build Highlights​

  • Build 22623.1095: Features rolling out.
  • Build 22621.1095: Features off by default. Note: Insiders previously on Build 22622 will automatically transition to Build 22623 via an enablement package. This package artificially increments the build number, distinguishing it from the update with features off by default. This system is exclusive to the Beta Channel and will not affect final feature rollouts.

Key Changes​

and Improvements

Start Menu​

  • The search box design in the Start menu now has more rounded corners, mirroring the taskbar's search box.

General​

  • Quick Assist: Moved from Windows Tools to be directly accessible in the Start menu’s All apps list.

Fixes in Build 22623.1095​

Taskbar & System Tray​

  • Fixed issues causing the top half of the taskbar to get clipped.

Start Menu​

  • Resolved issues where the uninstall app dialog might not display correctly, making buttons inaccessible.

Task Manager​

  • Fixed issues causing filtering by publisher name to not match correctly on the Processes page.
  • Resolved issues where some services wouldn't show
    after filtering on the Services page.
  • Addressed problems where new processes appeared in a filtered list if launched while a filter was set.
  • Ensured dialogs render in the correct theme from the Task Manager Settings page.
  • Solved the issue causing the data content area of the Processes page to flash when themes change.
  • The Startup apps page now lists apps correctly.
  • Resolved a potential black flash when opening Task Manager.
  • If there are no matching search results, Task Manager will now explicitly indicate that.
  • Fixed a potential Task Manager crash when ending certain processes.
  • You can now focus on the
    search box by pressing CTRL + F.

Fixes for Both Build 22621.1095 & 22623.1095​

Search on the Taskbar​

  • Enhanced reliability to fix crashes and improve animations.
  • Addressed rendering issues and visual artifacts in the search box.
  • Resolved layout issues with right-to-left display languages like Arabic.

Other Fixes​

  • Enhanced experience for preview .NET Framework updates, allowing control from Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates.
  • Fixed numerous issues affecting Windows Server 2022 domain controllers, Input Method Editor (IME), conhost.exe, network copy speed, TPM systems, COM+ applications, searchindexer.exe, Japanese Kanji conversion, mstsc.exe, FindWindow APIs, and taskbar search for picture
    files.

About the Beta Channel​

The Beta Channel previews experiences closer to what will be shipped to the general public, with features that might occasionally debut here before the Dev Channel. Not all features tested will ship to the general public. For more details, read the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1095 and 22623.1095. Stay updated and share your thoughts below!
Useful Links:
 
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Hello WindowsForum members! Microsoft has unveiled the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25272, the first Dev Channel build of 2023. This release packs several updates aimed at improving user experience, alongside vital fixes to known issues. Let’s dive into what this build brings to the table.

Key Improvements and Changes​

Quick Assist Accessibility​

Quick Assist has been relocated out of Windows Tools and now appears directly in the Start menu’s All apps list, making it simpler to locate.

WSL Update Requirement​

Starting from Build 25267, the inbox version of Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) has been removed. If you're a WSL user, ensure you update to the latest version as outlined in Releases · microsoft/WSL. Future builds aim to automate this update process.

Printing Enhancement​

A refresh button has been added to the Windows print queue, streamlining the printing process.

Fixes and Resolutions​

General Fixes​

  • Resolved an issue where Arm64 devices showed a black screen when resuming from sleep or hibernate.
  • Fixed disappearing and reappearing UI elements in apps.

Taskbar Search​

  • Rectified search box rendering issues and visual artifacts on the taskbar.
  • Japanese IME candidate items now display correctly inside the search box.

Task Manager​

  • Improved filtering by publisher name and fixed issues causing services not to show.
  • Rectified crashes and unreadable text issues with Task Manager light/dark themes.
  • Task Manager search box focus can now be set using CTRL + F.

Narrator and Live Captions​

  • Solved a Settings crash when toggling Narrator in Lithuanian and Hungarian builds.
  • Ensured Narrator compatibility with Windows Defender Application Guard for Edge.
  • Fixed Live Captions not functioning in recent Dev Channel builds.

Input and Settings​

  • Enhanced performance for high report rate mice during gaming and fixed touch gesture issues with the Start menu.
  • Resolved certification authentication hang while connecting to VPN.
  • Fixed Quick Settings crashes and blurry app icons under Settings > Apps > Default apps.

Other Fixes​

  • Fixed Windows Security app crashes and print queue stale job information.
  • Addressed Windows Hello issues on specific PCs and Camera app bugs when pausing video recording.

Known Issues​

General​

  • Using Windows Hello for facial recognition sign-in may not work on Arm64 PCs. Utilize the Hello PIN as a workaround.

Taskbar and System Tray​

  • The taskbar may crop in half when using the tablet-optimized taskbar, particularly on secondary monitors.

Task Manager and Widgets​

  • Some dialogs might not render correctly in the chosen theme.
  • Investigating the issue causing the Widgets board to stay open invisibly in China and other regions. For more detailed insights and the complete list of changes, visit the official Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25272. Stay tuned for more updates and share your feedback on this new build. Happy testing, Insiders! Attribution: Information derived from Microsoft and the Windows Insider Blog.
 
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Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1180 and 22623.1180 has released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1180 and Build 22623.1180 (KB5022363) to the Beta Channel. Below is a summary of what's new and improved.

What's New in Build 22621.1180 and 22623.1180​

Cloud Storage Updates in Settings​

The Settings app now supports new visuals on your Accounts page, providing a visual overview of your cloud storage usage across Microsoft products. Key features include:
  • A consolidated cloud storage bar showing your storage usage for each product.
  • Notifications if you’re running low on storage.
  • Inclusion of Outlook attachment data in your cloud storage. These changes will gradually roll out, starting with a small number of insiders. Full impact to your storage amount will take effect as early as February 1st, 2023.

Widgets Improvements​

A significant update is the removal of the sign-in requirement for the Widgets board. Now all users can:
  • Get weather updates on the taskbar.
  • Pin widgets from favorite apps.
  • Access a personalized dynamic feed without an account.

Taskbar & System Tray Fixes​

Several bugs have been addressed to improve the Taskbar and System Tray experience:
  • Right-clicking on certain icons in the hidden icons flyout no longer dismisses the flyout.
  • Fixed a crash of explorer.exe when loading certain app icons.
  • Task view will not show behind the taskbar when using tablet-optimized taskbar options.
  • Fixed issues preventing the taskbar from showing in Safe Mode with the new search box option.

Task Manager Enhancements​

  • When the Task Manager window size is small and the search box collapses to an icon, hovering over the icon now shows a tooltip.
  • Improved how icons and labels display when a contrast mode is enabled.

Narrator Improvements​

  • Fixed an issue where Braille devices incorrectly stated there was no screen in the latest version of Braille.

Network Troubleshooting with Get Help App​

The traditional Network Troubleshooter has been replaced with a more modern, Get Help-based experience. This new app:
  • Uses new APIs to diagnose and offer recommendations for connectivity problems.
  • Targets the 30 most common connectivity issues.
  • Requires Get Help app version 10.2208.2551.0 or greater to function.

About the Beta Channel​

The Beta Channel previews experiences closer to what general customers will receive. Features in this channel are subject to change and testing in the Dev and Beta Channels might differ. If you'd like to learn more about this release and other insider updates, check out the Windows Insider Program documentation - Windows Insider Program and the complete overview on https://insider.windows.com/en-us/flight-hub. Stay tuned for more updates, and share your thoughts and feedback in the Feedback Hub (WIN + F). Thanks, Amanda & Brandon​

Note: This article is based on content from the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1180 and 22623.1180.
 
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Hello WindowsForum members! Microsoft has just released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25281 to the Dev Channel, bringing exciting new features and a variety of fixes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what's new and how it impacts your Windows 11 experience.

Key Highlights​

1. Enhancements to Windows Spotlight Starting with Build 25281, Microsoft is experimenting with different treatments for Windows Spotlight:
  • Richer UI: Showcases titles, descriptions, and more information about Spotlight images directly on your desktop.
  • Improved Interactivity: New options for switching pictures, including previews, full-screen experiences, and minimized experiences. To enable Windows Spotlight:
  • Right-click on your desktop →
    "Personalize" → Choose the new Spotlight theme    .
  • Alternatively: Settings → Personalization → Background → Select Spotlight under the “Personalize your background” dropdown. [FEEDBACK: Use Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Desktop Environment > Windows Spotlight to share your thoughts.] 2. Redesigned Graphics Settings Page Aligning with Windows 11’s new design principles, the graphics settings page has received a visual update:
  • Streamlined Appearance: Enhanced ease in accessing graphics configurations like 'GPU preference' and 'Auto HDR'.
  • Functionality Remains Unchanged: Only the interface has been revamped for a modern look. For additional details on graphics settings, refer to Home. 3.
    Tabs in Notepad     Tabs in Notepad have started rolling out to Dev Channel Insiders, streamlining your text-editing tasks.

Changes and Fixes​

  • Updated System Tray Icons: The printer icon now aligns with other modern icons.
  • Taskbar Navigation: Windows Narrator now better describes the position of app icons when navigating the taskbar with WIN + T and arrow keys.
  • File Explorer: Fixes include a corrected error dialogue for network discovery and resolution of certain explorer.exe crashes.
  • Settings Adjustments: Removal of Bluetooth devices no longer prompts for confirmation, and several Wi-Fi-related bugs have been addressed.
  • Task View & Snap Groups: No more crashes
    when right-clicking to show snap groups on all desktops.
  • Narrator Improvements: Various fixes enhancing the accessibility experience, especially with Braille devices.

Known Issues​

  • Windows Hello: Facial recognition might fail on Arm64 PCs. Use the PIN method as a workaround.
  • Update Times: Some users experience longer-than-expected update times—ongoing investigations.
  • App Freezes: Freezes reported in browsers and apps after the last Dev Channel build.
  • Taskbar Issues: The taskbar might be cropped in half when using the tablet-optimized version.
  • Search on Taskbar: Adjustments needed for certain configurations to show the search box as an icon only.
  • Task Manager Themes: Some dialogs may not
    render correctly under custom themes. For a complete list of known issues and other details, make sure to visit the official Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25281.

Developer Notes​

The latest Windows Insider SDK can be downloaded at Download Windows Insider Preview SDK. NuGet packages are also available, providing more granular access and seamless CI/CD pipeline integration.

About the Dev Channel​

Builds in the Dev Channel are experimental and might never make it to public release. These builds are intended for trying out new ideas and collecting feedback. Always check the known issues and remember, switching from Dev Channel to Beta or Release Preview Channels requires
a clean install.

Important Links​

Post your questions and experiences with Build 25281 below. Don’t forget to share your feedback directly with Microsoft using the Feedback Hub! Amanda & Brandon
 
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Hello Windows enthusiasts! We have some exciting news from the Dev Channel. Microsoft has just released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25284. Let's dive into the key updates, fixes, and known issues reported in this latest build. ### What's New in Build 25284 #### New Widget Introduction With the new release of Windows App SDK 1.2, developers can now create widgets for their apps. This means more interactive and personalized experiences for Windows 11 users. One of the first new widgets is for the Messenger app. To try it out: 1. Update the Messenger app from the Microsoft
Store. 2. Open the widgets board. 3. Navigate to the widgets picker by clicking the “+” button at the top-right. 4. Pin the Messenger widget to your board. Note: Expect more third-party widgets to be available soon as developers continue to leverage this capability. ### Fixes in Build 25284 Several important fixes have been rolled out, including: - Taskbar & System Tray: Resolved an issue where right-clicking on certain icons in the hidden icons flyout would dismiss the flyout instead of bringing up the context menu. - Search on Taskbar: Fixed an explorer.exe crash for some Insiders related to the
search box in the taskbar. - Input: Improved focus handling when using search suggestions with the Pinyin IME. - Windowing: Fixed an issue where it wasn’t possible to swipe down to reveal the title bar in full-screen mode on touch PCs. - Other Fixes: Resolved issues causing certain apps to hang or crash when saving files as PDFs and addressed issues with the cast option failing to show devices. ### Known Issues As with any preview build, there are a few known issues: - General: - Some Insiders may face issues accessing websites and resources via VPN. - Arm64 devices
may hang at the OS boot logo and face issues resuming from sleep/hibernate. - Widgets: - Third-party widgets may occasionally disappear or get unpinned on multiple devices. - The undo button for widget notifications may not function as expected. - Taskbar & System Tray: The taskbar may appear cropped in half when using the tablet-optimized taskbar. - Search on Taskbar: Issues with changing the taskbar search box to show as icon only. - Task Manager: Some dialogs may not render with the correct theme, and the Processes page content may flash when themes change. - Windows Spotlight: Inconsistent refreshes and
resolution mismatches on multiple monitors. For a detailed list of fixes and known issues, please refer to the https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2023/01/25/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25284/. ### For Developers The latest Windows Insider SDK can be downloaded at https://aka.ms/windowsinsidersdk. SDK NuGet packages are now also available for more granular access and better integration in CI/CD pipelines. ### About the Dev Channel The Dev Channel receives early builds with features that may never make it to the final release. These builds are meant for feedback and testing new concepts. Remember, these are not always stable and you may encounter bugs that require workarounds. For more information,
you can read about how the Dev Channel operates and what to expect from these pre-release builds https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2020/06/15/introducing-the-windows-insider-channels/#wu. Stay tuned for more updates and happy testing, Windows Insiders! Important Links: - https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-insider/ - https://aka.ms/flighthub Thank you, Amanda & Brandon [Windows Insider Program] --- [CODE="markdown"] [IMG][/CODE]
 
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Hello WindowsForum Community! Exciting news for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel---Microsoft has just released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1245 and Build 22623.1245 (KB5022358), packed with new features and significant improvements. Let’s break down what you need to know about these updates.

Builds Overview:​

  • Build 22623.1245: New features rolling out.
  • Build 22621.1245: New features off by default.

Key Reminders:​

  • Automatic Update: Insiders on Build 22622 will automatically be moved to Build 22623 via an enablement package. This setup is exclusive to the Beta Channel.

Screen Recording in Snipping Tool:​

Screen recording is now available in the Snipping Tool
for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel (version 11.2212.24.0). This update also includes:
  • The ability to pause recordings.
  • Enhanced performance and reliability.

Fixes in Build 22623.1245​

Taskbar & System Tray:​

  • Fixed a frequent ShellExperienceHost crash when interacting with Quick Settings.

Task Manager:​

  • Resolved several issues leading to Task Manager crashes.
  • No longer need to widen Task Manager extensively to see the navigation pane.
  • Improved search box alignment when text scaling is increased.
  • Addressed text cut-off issues in dialogs due to increased text scaling.
  • Fixed an issue where parts of the title bar weren’t draggable.

Fixes for Both Build 22621.1245 &​

Build 22623.1245
  • .NET Framework Preview Updates: Updates more transparent and manageable via Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates.
  • ReFS Issue: Fixed nonpaged pool usage that could deplete system memory.
  • Improved Network Copying: Enhancements to copying speeds from network to local drives.
  • Windows Server 2022: Addressed LDAP request processing issues causing domain controllers to stop responding.
  • Group Policy for Expanded Toasts: Fixed related issues.
  • IME Issues: Applications freezing when using mouse and keyboard simultaneously while IME is active have been resolved.
  • conhost.exe: Resolved non-responsive state.
  • Exploit Protection: Fixed conflicts causing some applications like Microsoft Office and Adobe
    Reader not to respond.
  • File Search: Issues searching files based on content have been fixed.
  • searchindexer.exe: Fixed sign-in and sign-out issues.
  • Japanese Kanji Issues: Resolved cursor misplacement issues in MBCS apps.
  • Windows Diagnostic Data: Adjusted configurations for EU Data Boundary compliance.
  • mstsc.exe: Resolved freezing when connecting to RemoteApp and Desktop Connection.
  • FindWindow() / FindWindowEx(): Returned window handle issues have been fixed.
  • Taskbar Search: Addressed problems with opening pictures from search.
  • WebView2 Issues: Fixed content display issues in applications using WebView2 like Microsoft Office and Widgets app.

About the Beta Channel:​

The Beta Channel is geared towards experiences that are closer
to what will be released to the public, making it an exciting space for Insiders to get a first look at new features and improvements.

Important Insider Links:​

 
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Hello WindowsForum.com community! Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25290 to the Dev Channel, and it’s packed with new features, improvements, and crucial fixes. Let's dive into what this exciting new build has to offer!

Key Highlights:​

  • Available for Arm64 Devices: Build 25290 is now available for Arm64 devices, addressing the issues that prevented the release of Build 25284 to these devices.
  • New Widgets: Microsoft has introduced preview versions of widgets for Spotify and Phone Link, adding to the previous release of the Messenger app widget.
  • General Improvements and Fixes: Various enhancements and bug fixes aim
    to improve the user experience and system performance.

What's New?​

New Widgets: Spotify and Phone Link​

Last week, Windows Insiders got a preview of the Messenger app widget. This build now brings preview versions of Spotify and Phone Link widgets. To try them out:
  • Go to the widgets collection in the Microsoft Store and update to the latest version.
  • Open the widgets board, click the “+” button at the top-right, and pin your widgets. Keep an eye out for more widgets as developers continue to expand this feature.

Changes and Improvements​

Start Menu​

Microsoft is exploring new badging treatments
on the Start menu, notifying users of actions that need to be taken. They encourage feedback as these changes are tested.

Fixes and Improvements​

General: [Fixed an issue causing Arm64 devices to fail resuming from sleep/hibernate. [Resolved VPN connection issues and browser freezes experienced in recent Dev Channel builds. Taskbar & System Tray: [Fixed an explorer.exe crash that could prevent the taskbar from loading. Task Manager: [Multiple fixes for crashes and display issues, including improvements in theme application and text scaling. Windows Spotlight: [Resolved inconsistencies with daily image refreshes. Settings: [Fixed broken glyphs in Sans Serif Collection preview. Other:
[*Various fixes, including preventing Narrator from announcing dropdown lists in Excel and resolving issues with Snipping Tool screenshots on multiple monitors.

Known Issues​

Despite the numerous fixes, some issues persist: [Update history might be blank for some users. [Some Insiders experience repeated bugchecks after upgrading to Build 25284. [Group Policy Editor may show a displayName attribute error. [Windows Hello facial recognition may not work on Arm64 PCs. [*Some users report longer-than-expected update times. Microsoft is actively investigating and working on fixes for these issues.

For Developers​

Developers can download the latest Windows Insider SDK. NuGet packages are also available, providing
better integration into CI/CD pipelines.

Important Links and Resources:​

[Download Windows Insider Preview ISO [108 minutes that changed the world
Feel free to discuss your experiences with the new build and any issues you encounter here on WindowsForum.com!
 
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Hello Windows enthusiasts! Exciting news from the Windows Insider Blog—Microsoft has just rolled out Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1250 and Build 22623.1250 (KB5023008) to the Beta Channel. Let's dive into what these builds bring to our Windows community.

Key Differences:​

  • Build 22623.1250: New features are actively being rolled out.
  • Build 22621.1250: Features are off by default. For those of you who were previously on build 22622, you're in for an automatic upgrade to Build 22623 through an enablement package. This package bumps up the build number, distinguishing devices with new features enabled from those where features remain off
    by default. Note that this is an approach specific to the Beta Channel and doesn't hint at future plans for final features. If you're in the 22621.xxxx build with features turned off by default, you can manually check for updates and opt-in to Build 22623.xxx for the new feature rollouts.

Changes and Improvements:​

[Search on the Taskbar]​

  • Introduction of a new policy for IT administrators to manage how the search box on the taskbar appears within their organizations.

[Task Manager Fixes]​

  • Typing "F" in the search box should now function properly.
  • Narrator now reads out all text in
    dialogs.
  • Dragging the window using the search box area works the same as other title bar areas.
  • Performing a search and then pressing the down arrow will now correctly move the keyboard focus from the search box to the results.
  • A confirmation dialog will now appear when ending processes in the Details tab.
  • Increasing text scaling no longer results in a "see more" button without contents.
  • Focus will now correctly be set to search, ensuring Narrator announces that focus is on the search box.
  • Selection in the Processes page with contrast themes enabled now visibly shows the selected row.

[Search​

on the Taskbar Fixes]
  • The search box no longer randomly disappears when clicked.
  • The search box no longer shifts slightly to the side when clicked.
  • Taskbar auto-hide should no longer trigger unexpectedly when pressing the Windows key and starting a search.

Understanding the Beta Channel:​

The Beta Channel previews experiences close to the final product set to ship to general users. While features may appear first in the Beta Channel, this does not guarantee they will be included in final releases. For an in-depth understanding of how Microsoft conducts trials in both Dev and Beta Channels, you can read more
in their Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1250 and 22623.1250. For those curious about the making of Windows 11, visit the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1250 and 22623.1250 to meet the creators and learn about their journey. Useful Links:
 
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Microsoft has just rolled out the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25295 to the Dev Channel. This update brings in a crucial new commercial policy, several improvements, and critical bug fixes. Below, we'll delve into the important features and changes in this build that promise to enhance your Windows experience.

New Commercial Policy​

Enable Features Introduced via Servicing The standout feature in Build 25295 is a new policy aimed at commercial users. This policy allows commercial customers to enable features that are introduced through servicing, which are off by default. These can be managed through Windows Update for Business
or on-premises with Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). While this policy is available in the Dev Channel, there are currently no specific features behind it, but it will soon be extended to the Beta Channel, where features will be available for testing.

Changes and Improvements​

General Enhancements​

  • 2FA Code Copy Button: Users will now see a copy button for quickly copying two-factor authentication (2FA) codes in notification toasts from apps or linked phones. If Microsoft’s detection of these codes is incorrect, users are encouraged to provide feedback.
  • Taskbar Search: The new taskbar search experience introduced in Build 25252 is
    now available to all Dev Channel Insiders. Users can customize this feature under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar Items.

Fixes​

  • Bugcheck Issue: Resolved the issue causing repeated bugchecks for some Insiders after upgrading to Build 25284 or higher.
  • App Freezes: Fixed a problem where apps might freeze if used simultaneously while playing games.
  • Update History: Addressed an issue where the update history page under Windows Update was blank post-installation of Build 25290.
  • File Explorer: Fixed issues where the add and close tab buttons in File Explorer were not working properly if maximized and set to Arabic or Hebrew
    display languages.
  • Input: Fixed multiple issues including unresponsive app windows resulting from multi-finger touch gestures and mouse appearing with pointer trails when sharing screens.
  • Settings: The Add a Device dialog now has a consistent border.
  • Windowing: Resolved issues with app window movements, DWM crashes causing screen flashes, and snapped windows not remembering positions upon monitor disconnection and reconnection.
  • Other: Resolved underlying crashes affecting apps using Graphics.Capture and printing to PDFs.

Known Issues​

  • System Clock: The ability to show seconds in the system tray clock has disappeared and will be fixed in an upcoming build.
  • Enterprise Authentication: Users are facing issues
    with Windows integrated authentication on enterprise websites.
  • Group Policy Editor: Launching may show a displayName attribute error.
  • Windows Hello: Facial recognition issues on Arm64 PCs can be worked around by using the PIN path.
  • Update Times: Some users are experiencing longer update times; Microsoft is investigating.
  • Widgets: Issues include broken links for "Find more widgets," disappearing third-party widgets, and non-functional undo buttons on widget toast notifications.

Developer Updates​

Developers can download the latest Windows Insider SDK at the Download Windows Insider Preview SDK. NuGet packages, offering more granular access to the SDK and better CI/CD integration, are also available.

Conclusion​

Windows​

Insider Preview Build 25295 presents a strong mix of new policies, useful enhancements, and necessary fixes, ensuring a better and more secure experience for Dev Channel users. Stay tuned for more updates as Microsoft continues to refine and improve Windows 11. For more details, check the original announcement on the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25295. Let's discuss these new changes and what they mean for your daily use and overall experience! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Source: Microsoft and the Windows Insider Blog
Tags: Windows 11, Insider Preview, Dev Channel, Build 25295, Windows Updates, Commercial Policy, Bug Fixes,
Improvements
 
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Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1255 and 22623.1255 the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1255 and Build 22623.1255 (KB5022918) to the Beta Channel. These builds come with notable differences in feature availability, making it essential for Windows enthusiasts to stay informed on what’s new and what fixes have been implemented.

What’s New in Builds 22621.1255 and 22623.1255?​

Differentiating the Builds​

  • Build 22623.1255: This build includes new features that are rolling out to users.
  • Build 22621.1255: Features are off by default. However, Insiders on Build 22622 will automatically transition to Build 22623 through an enablement package. The enablement package adds to the build number to distinguish it from devices that have features turned off by default. This method is specifically for the Beta Channel, aiming to highlight the difference between updates.

Notable New Feature: Tabs in Notepad​

Microsoft is starting to roll out tabs in Notepad for Beta Channel users with version 11.2301.17.0. This long-awaited feature will enhance multitasking capabilities within the Notepad application.

Fixes in Build 22623.1255​

Build 22623.1255 includes multiple fixes to improve user experience and system stability. Here are some key fixes:

Taskbar & System Tray​

  • Fixed an issue where the Start menu could open behind the taskbar when accessed using the touch keyboard.
  • Addressed a problem where the taskbar would vanish when switching from Task view to a Win32 app icon through the tablet-optimized taskbar.

Task Manager​

  • Resolved an issue where process names typed into the search box were unexpectedly spell-checked.
  • Fixed several issues with how the Narrator read content in Task Manager.
  • Corrected mismatched themes in the dropdown menus within settings.
  • Improved search functionality on the App History page to prevent results from suddenly disappearing.
  • Interacting with the Task Manager window now dismisses the Default Start Page dropdown as intended.

About the Beta Channel​

The Beta Channel offers previews closer to what the general public will receive, distinct from the Dev Channel. Both channels can show features and experiences first, but not everything trialed in the Beta Channel is guaranteed to ship. For a deeper understanding of how features are tried out in both channels, check out Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1255 and 22623.1255.

Important Insider Resources​

 
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Hello, Windows enthusiasts! The latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25300 has been released to the Dev Channel, bringing a slew of new features, significant updates, and bug fixes. Here's a detailed breakdown of what's new and improved in this build, particularly focusing on features that will enhance your user experience.

Key Highlights​

Live Captions in More Languages​

A standout feature in this build is the expansion of live captions. Initially, live captions were available only in English (United States), but now they support multiple languages such as Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish,
and other English dialects. This is a significant boost for accessibility, helping users who are deaf or hard of hearing read captions in their native language. To enable live captions, use the shortcut WIN + Ctrl + L, or navigate via the quick settings accessibility flyout. The first-time setup will prompt you to download the necessary speech recognition support for on-device captioning.

Improvements to Snap Layouts​

Snap layouts are getting some attention as well. This build introduces various treatments to improve the discoverability and usage of snap layouts. Changes include reducing the hover time to invoke the flyout when you
mouse over the maximize/restore button and enhancing visual cues by including the app's icon and descriptive title. Feedback from users is key, and due to some issues, certain treatments have been paused temporarily.

Voice Typing Enhancements​

The voice typing settings, which include automatic punctuation and the voice typing launcher, can now sync across all devices using the same Microsoft account. This feature can be toggled via Settings > Accounts > Windows backup > Remember my preferences > Accessibility and supports both personal and AAD accounts.

Microsoft Store Overhaul​

Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel who have the latest version of
the Microsoft Store (22301.1401.1.0 and higher) will notice several visual improvements. The featured sections on the homepage, search result layout, and product cards for apps have all been redesigned to offer a more user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing experience. These changes include better alignment with Fluent Design system controls and new animations.

Fixes and Known Issues​

This build comes with several bug fixes that improve system stability and user experience:
  • System Tray & Taskbar: Fixed issues where the taskbar could be cut off after resolution changes and app icons could switch window focus unexpectedly when hovered over.
  • Task Manager: Several
    fixes for how Narrator reads content, spellcheck inconsistencies, and other UI issues were addressed.
  • File Explorer: Issues with drag-and-drop across tabs have been resolved. However, some known issues persist:
  • Longer Update Times: Some users are experiencing extended update times. Logs can be submitted through Feedback Hub.
  • Windows Hello on Arm64: Facial recognition may not work; using a Hello PIN is the suggested workaround.
  • Snipping Tool Issue: The New button for Snipping Tool may not work post-update. Setting screen snipping as the default for ms-screenclip in settings can resolve this.

Additional Improvements​

  • Startup Settings: The Settings > Apps > Startup section
    has been updated for better information access.
  • WSL Upgrade Prompt: Improved prompts for installing the new Windows Subsystem for Linux Store app when wsl.exe is invoked.

Final Thoughts​

The Dev Channel builds are crucial for testing long-lead features that may or may not make it into the final Windows release. Each build comes with its own set of enhancements, bug fixes, and sometimes new issues, making your feedback invaluable for shaping the future of Windows. For more details about this build, feel free to visit the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25300. Stay tuned for more updates, and happy testing!​

Amanda &
Brandon
 
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Hello Windows enthusiasts! Microsoft has announced the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1325 and Build 22623.1325 (KB5022914) to the Beta Channel. Here’s everything you need to know about the new builds and the latest updates.

Off-Ramp for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel​

Responding to feedback, Microsoft is offering an off-ramp window that starts today and runs through March 15, 2023. This period allows Insiders who opted to unenroll their devices from the Windows Insider Program to complete the process if they are currently on Build 22621.1325 or 22623.1325.
  • Troubleshooter: During this off-ramp, a troubleshooter will
    automatically unenroll these devices from receiving new flights and uninstall the enablement package if necessary.
  • Reboot Requirement: A reboot will be necessary to finalize the unenrollment.
  • Upgrade Path: Once the troubleshooter completes, devices will receive an in-place upgrade with the March 2023 'B' release, bringing them up to date with Windows 11, version 22H2.

New Features in Builds 22621.1325 and 22623.1325​

The builds come with several new features, improvements, and fixes. Here are some of the highlights:

New Widgets: Messenger, Spotify, Phone Link, and Game Pass​

  • Preview Widgets: New preview widgets for Messenger, Spotify, Phone Link, and Xbox Game Pass
    are being rolled out.
  • Access: Available in the widgets collection in the Microsoft Store. Update the apps to the latest versions, open the widgets board, and use the picker to pin your widgets.

New Commercial Policy​

  • A new policy enables commercial customers to activate features introduced through servicing (outside of the annual feature update) that are off by default for managed Windows update devices.

Changes and Improvements in Build 22623.1325​

  • AI-Powered Start Menu Recommendations: For Azure Active Directory (AAD) joined devices, the Start menu will display AI-powered content recommendations.

Fixes in Builds 22621.1325 & 22623.1325​

  • Taskbar & System Tray: Resolved
    an issue that caused the taskbar to be cut off after resolution changes.
  • Printers: Fixed compatibility issues with printers using Windows Graphical Device Interface (GDI) drivers.
  • Task View: Improved reliability when using Task View.
  • File Copying: Addressed an issue causing slower-than-expected copying from a network to a local drive.
  • Time and Date: Provided support for the United Mexican States’ daylight-saving time change.
  • Provisioning Packages: Fixed issues with provisioning packages requiring elevation.
  • File Explorer & User Interface: Several tweaks to enhance reliability and functionality, including fixing Shift + Tab and Shift + F6 input focus issues and improving volume command displays
    from Bluetooth keyboards.

Insights for WindowsForum.com Users​

This update is particularly relevant for users who are part of the Windows Insider Beta Channel. Key takeaways include:
  • Convenience: For those wanting to opt out of the Insider Program, the off-ramp window simplifies device unenrollment and rollback.
  • Enhanced Functionality: The new widgets and AI-powered recommendations in the Start menu aim to enhance user experience.

  • Improved Stability: The plethora of fixes across different functionalities ensure a more stable and reliable user experience. For more detailed insights and to stay updated, users can visit the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1325 and 22623.1325. Stay tuned to WindowsForum.com for more​

updates and discussions on Windows features and previews. Happy updating!
Amanda & Brandon from Microsoft
 
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Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25309 has just rolled out Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25309 for the Dev Channel, bringing a host of new features and improvements. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s new in this update.

Highlights of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25309​

New Enhanced Volume Mixer in Quick Settings​

With this build, Microsoft has launched an advanced volume mixer into Quick Settings, making it easier to customize audio on a per-app basis. The new volume mixer offers quick access to swap audio devices on the fly. A keyboard shortcut (WIN + CTRL + V) has been added for faster access. Additionally,
enabling Windows Sonic experience and other spatial sound technologies like Dolby and DTS is now simpler.

Updated Touch Keyboard Settings​

The updated touch keyboard settings introduce a new dropdown menu with three options:
  • Never: Suppresses the touch keyboard even when no hardware keyboard is attached.
  • When no keyboard attached: Displays the touch keyboard only when the device is used as a tablet.
  • Always: Shows the touch keyboard even when the hardware keyboard is attached.

Auto Color Management (ACM) Expansion​

ACM is now available for more SDR displays, ensuring consistent color accuracy across all supported displays. The feature requires a
WDDM driver version 3.0 or greater and GPUs including AMD RX 400 Series, Intel 12th Gen Integrated, and NVIDIA GTX 10xx series.

Voice Access Improvements​

The in-app command help page has been redesigned for easier navigation and understanding. Additionally, voice access now supports more English dialects and includes new text selection and editing commands, making it easier to control your PC with your voice.

Changes and Improvements​

  • Start Menu: New text variants for badging are being tested.
  • File Explorer: A “pizza” icon indicates previewing the Windows App SDK version.
  • Snap Layouts: Tweaked treatments to improve discoverability and usage.
  • Widget
    Icons    : Icons are now theme-aware to offer better visibility in dark and light modes.
  • Settings: Updated settings for physical power controls integration.

Fixes​

This build also brings a series of fixes:
  • General: Resolved USB device issues and crashes related to the taskbar and the Start menu.
  • File Explorer: Fixed issues with desktop icon arrangements and with the explorer jumping to the foreground.
  • Taskbar: Addressed display issues resulting in duplication and misplaced icons in multi-monitor setups.

Known Issues​

  • Updating: Some users may experience longer update times.
  • Search on Taskbar: Issues with rendering and disappearing of search elements.
  • Snipping Tool: The "New"
    button may not work for some Insiders, but a temporary workaround is available.
  • Live Captions: Performance issues in non-English languages and delays in detection.

Conclusion​

This build is packed with enhancements aimed at improving user experience and system functionality. Users are encouraged to test these features and provide feedback via the Feedback Hub to help Microsoft fine-tune future updates. For a complete list of changes, known issues, and more detailed information, check out the official Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25309. Feel free to discuss your experiences and share your feedback on these new features in this thread!
 
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Hello WindowsForum.com members! Microsoft has just announced the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1391 and Build 22624.1391 (KB5023011) to the Beta Channel. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what this release entails and how it impacts you as a Windows Insider.

What's New in Build 22624.1391?​

Voice Access Enhancements​

Redesigned In-App Help Page: The in-app command help page for voice access has been overhauled to be more user-friendly and comprehensible. It now boasts a search bar for quick command lookup and categorized commands for better guidance. Each command also includes descriptions and usage examples. Support for More English
Dialects: Voice access now supports several English dialects, including UK, India, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia. If your display language's speech model is unavailable, you can still use English (US) by default. New Text Selection & Editing Commands: Useful commands have been added to ease text selection and editing via voice. This includes commands for removing spaces in text or inserting text without adding spaces automatically. For an exhaustive list of voice access commands, refer to the official Microsoft Support.

Fixes and Improvements for Both Builds​

  • Windows Update Reliability: This update enhances the overall reliability of Windows
    after an update installation.
  • Notification Center & Taskbar Fixes: A bug causing issues with the Notification Center, Quick Settings, and taskbar jump lists for some Insiders has been resolved.

Off-Ramp for Beta Channel Insiders​

If you decided to unenroll from the Beta Channel and are on Builds 22621.1325 or 22623.1325, you will not receive this update. The off-ramp period runs until March 15, 2023. For more details, visit the https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2023/02/28/help-us-test-ways-to-off-ramp-your-device-to-the-windows-11-release-preview-channel/.

Update Rollout and Enablement Package​

Build 22624.1391​

  • New features are actively rolling out.

Build 22621.1391​

  • New features are off by default. Insiders on Build 22623 will
    be transitioned automatically to Build 22624 via an enablement package. This approach, specific to the Beta Channel, helps differentiate devices with features turned off by default.

How to Switch from 22621.xxxx to 22624.xxxx​

If your device has new features turned off by default, you can check for updates manually and install Build 22624.xxxx to experience new features.

Known Issues​

  • Voice Access Commands: The redesigned help page may not include all commands yet. Microsoft plans to update this in future builds. Refer to the Microsoft Support page for a complete list.

Resources and Community Links​

Stay tuned to WindowsForum.com for more updates and detailed analyses! Have you installed these new builds? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below! Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22621.1391 and 22624.1391 Tags: #Windows11 #WindowsInsider #BetaChannel #Build22624 #Build22621 #VoiceAccess #Update
 
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Hello Windows enthusiasts! Today, we have some exciting news about the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23403, now available in the Dev Channel. This build brings a plethora of new features, improvements, and fixes that aim to enhance your experience with Windows 11. Here's a detailed look at what's new and noteworthy.

Key Highlights of Build 23403​

Expanding Live Captions to More Languages​

One of the standout features in this build is the expansion of live captions to include more languages. Initially introduced with the Windows 11 2022 Update in English, live captions now support:
  • Chinese (Simplified and
    Traditional)
  • French
  • German
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Portuguese (Brazil)
  • Spanish
  • Additional English dialects To activate live captions, press WIN + Ctrl + L or navigate via Quick Settings. Upon first use, you'll be prompted to download the necessary speech recognition support.

Access Keys in File Explorer​

Accessibility improvements continue with access key shortcuts in File Explorer's XAML context menu. This feature allows keyboard users to quickly execute commands by pressing a single key. To try it out, click on a file and press the menu key on your keyboard.

File Recommendations in File Explorer​

For users signed in with an Azure Active
Directory (AAD) account, File Explorer Home now features file recommendations. This provides quick access to relevant cloud files, making it easier to locate important documents.

Enhancements in Voice Accessibility​

Redesigned Voice Access Command Help​

The in-app help page for voice access commands has been revamped for better usability. It now includes a search bar and categorized commands, each with descriptions and examples.

Support for More English Dialects​

Voice access now supports additional English dialects such as English (UK), English (India), English (New Zealand), English (Canada), and English (Australia). If no matching speech model is found, English (US) will be used
by default.

New Text Selection and Editing Commands​

Improved voice commands make text selection and editing easier. For example, you can remove spaces from text or insert phrases at the cursor without adding extra spaces.

Updated Touch Keyboard Settings​

A new dropdown menu replaces the checkbox for touch keyboard settings under Settings > Time & language > Typing > Touch keyboard. This menu offers three options:
  • Never: Suppresses the touch keyboard.
  • When no keyboard attached: Shows the touch keyboard when used as a tablet.
  • Always: Always shows the touch keyboard, even with a hardware keyboard attached.

Narrator Outlook Support​

Narrator
now retrieves updates for Outlook support when started. Initially, this feature is limited to U.S. English, with more languages to follow.

Multi-App Kiosk Mode​

This feature allows IT administrators to restrict a device to a set of allowable apps, blocking all other functionalities. It's ideal for shared devices in education, retail, and frontline worker scenarios. Configuration is currently available via PowerShell and WMI Bridge, with Intune/MDM support coming soon.

Other Notable Changes​

Two-Factor Authentication Codes​

A new copy button in notification toasts makes it easier to quickly copy two-factor authentication (2FA) codes.

VPN Status in System Tray​

The system tray
now shows a VPN status icon overlay when connected to a recognized VPN profile.

Light Search Box in Custom Color Mode​

The search box on the taskbar will appear lighter when Windows is set to a custom color mode.

Fixes and Known Issues​

This build includes several fixes for the search box on the taskbar, File Explorer behavior, and more. However, there are still a few known issues, particularly with search on the taskbar and File Explorer's new features.

Conclusion​

These updates mark a significant step forward in enhancing Windows 11's accessibility, usability, and customization options. As always, your feedback​

is crucial. Please use the Feedback Hub (WIN + F) to share your thoughts and report any issues. For detailed information, you can read the full announcement on the Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23403. Stay tuned for more updates and happy testing, Windows Insiders! [Note: Ensure you're part of the correct channel by checking your settings or performing a clean installation if necessary.]
Feel free to comment below with your experiences and questions about this build!
 
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Hello Windows enthusiasts! Today, Microsoft has unveiled Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25314, now available to the Canary Channel. This latest build introduces several exciting features aimed at improving user experience and security. Here's a detailed look at what's new and noteworthy in this build.

New Features in Build 25314​

Access Keys in File Explorer​

For improved accessibility, Microsoft is adding access key shortcuts into the XAML context menu in File Explorer. This feature allows users to execute commands quickly using a single keystroke. To try it out, click on a file and press the menu key on your
keyboard. Note that this feature is rolling out gradually, so not all Canary Channel users will see it immediately.
Feedback: Share your thoughts through the Feedback Hub under Files, Folders, and Online Storage > File Explorer.
Click to expand...

File Recommendations in File Explorer​

File Recommendations are being introduced on the File Explorer Home. This feature will suggest the most relevant files based on user activity, specifically targeting those using Azure Active Directory (AAD) accounts. Like the access keys feature, this will roll out gradually to gather user feedback before wider deployment.
Feedback: Share your thoughts through the Feedback Hub under
Files, Folders, and Online Storage > File Explorer.
Click to expand...

LSA Protection Enablement on Upgrade​

Local Security Authority (LSA) protection, which prevents unauthorized code execution and process memory dumping, will now be audited during upgrades. If no incompatibilities are detected, LSA protection will be automatically enabled. Users can check the status of LSA protection in the Windows Security app under Device Security > Core Isolation.
Feedback: Share your thoughts through the Feedback Hub under Security and Privacy > Logging Into Your PC.
Click to expand...

Narrator Outlook Support​

Narrator will now receive updates for its Outlook support when the application starts. Updates will be
delivered through the Microsoft Store, enhancing the reliability and speed of accessibility support updates. Currently, this feature supports U.S. English only, with additional languages to be added in future flights.
Feedback: Share your thoughts through the Feedback Hub under Accessibility > Narrator.
Click to expand...

Changes and Improvements:​

  • Increased Security: Remote Mailslot Protocol is now disabled by default for enhanced security. This legacy, unreliable, and insecure protocol will be deprecated in future Windows releases. If your applications still use this protocol, consult with the vendor for updates.

About the Canary Channel​

The Canary Channel is designed for long-term development features
like major kernel changes and new APIs. Builds released here are fresh from development with minimal validation, and might come with significant issues. While not tied to any specific Windows release, these builds offer a glimpse into potential future updates. Your participation and feedback are crucial in shaping the future of Windows. Keep exploring, testing new features, and sharing your insights!

Important Insider Links:​

Original Blog Post: Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25314
We look forward to hearing your thoughts on these
new updates. Happy computing!
Click to expand...
 
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