Microsoft’s latest release, the Windows 11 KB5046740 update, delivers a packed slate of changes. For users enjoying the Version 24H2 build, this non-security update (OS Build 26100.2454) opens a whole new world of enhanced functionality—improving features like the taskbar, Start Menu, touchscreen gestures, File Explorer, and beyond. Let’s dive into the ocean of new goodies, improvements, and fixes this update brings, along with the steps to make the most of it.
What’s your favorite part of this update? Got feedback or looking for solutions? Let’s hear from you on the forum! Share your experiences, ask questions, and dive deep into everything Windows 11 offers.
Source: WinCentral Windows 11 update KB5046740 download link & changelog
Spotlight on the Major Changes: What's New?
Microsoft has played a masterstroke by touching on practically every corner of the Windows 11 user experience. Here's a breakdown of the most striking new features:1. Taskbar: More Intuitive and Customizable
- Date and Time Improvements: The system tray now displays shortened date and time formats. However, you can revert to the classic long form via
Settings > Date and Time. - Notifications Revamped: If “Do Not Disturb” is toggled on, the notification bell icon might be hidden—but don’t worry, notifications remain accessible through the clock. Customization options for showing/hiding the bell icon make accessing alerts simple and tailored.
2. A Smarter Start Menu
- Jump Lists Get a Boost: Right-clicking pinned apps in the Start Menu now reveals Jump Lists (for apps that support them). It’s not only functionally useful but also another way Microsoft is improving ease of navigation.
3. File Explorer: Bridging Your PC to the Rest of Your World
- Seamless Sharing with Android: This update enables sharing content directly to Android devices right from the desktop or File Explorer via the context menu. Make sure your PC is linked with Phone Link to unlock this feature.
- Search and Layout Fixes: Glitches like truncated search boxes and unexpectedly spaced items in the left-pane receive much-needed fixes.
4. Touchscreen Usability: Better Gestures, Greater Control
- A newly added section under
Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touchgives you power over touchscreen edge gestures. You can now switch off edge gestures on either or both sides of the screen, making Windows even more touch-user-friendly.
5. Task Manager Ventures Into Dark Mode
- The
DisconnectandLogoffdialogs now embrace dark mode and scale text appropriately, adding elegance and functional clarity. - A new feature in the Performance section proudly identifies disk types. Goodbye, vague disk descriptors!
6. Speech-to-Text Marvel
Microsoft is leveling up accessibility with better language support for speech-to-text and text-to-speech functionalities. Those reliant on Narrator, voice access, and live captions will appreciate smoother setup and performance enhancements.7. Dynamic Lighting Becomes Dynamic Indeed
If you’re dabbling in RGB lighting setups, the expanded wave effects (Forward, Backward, Inward, Outward) and gradient tweaks will spark joy. Even placeholder messages are now more informative, helping you troubleshoot connectivity to unsupported devices.8. Windows Search Gets a Security Upgrade
With IFilters running in Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC), the search process is fortified. LPACs mimic app isolation by restricting permissions, mitigating risks of system-wide compromise. This makes your PC safer when running potentially vulnerable processes.Bug Fixes That'll Make You Smile
Microsoft isn’t just adding features; they’ve rolled up their sleeves to crush annoying bugs. Here are some highlights of the fixes included in KB5046740:- Multi-Monitor Monstrosity Slayed: App windows crowding one monitor post-sleep is no longer an issue! Secondary monitor lag and screen tearing? Gone.
- Clipboard History Resurrected: If copied items weren’t appearing, rest assured this glitch has been vanquished.
- Mouse Pointer Mystery Solved: Pointer location feedback circles (via pressing CTRL) now reflect properly across high-resolution displays.
- HTML Applications, Image Orientation, and Export Issues: From HTA functionality on ARM64 systems to correcting misaligned RAW images and chart exports in PDFs, this update smooths out many document-related headaches.
How to Update Your System
If this list has you intrigued, here’s how to snag the Windows 11 KB5046740 update:- Check for Updates: Head over to
Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click “Check for updates,” and it’ll automatically appear if it’s ready for your system. - Manual Download: Prefer doing the job yourself? Use Microsoft’s official manual installer for KB5046740. Pre-download the file and execute it to install the patch smoothly.
- Tips for Smooth Installation: Always restart your computer after installation, clearing the way for all fixes and features to deploy correctly.
Gradual Rollout and What It Means
A word of caution: not every feature discussed here will be available to everyone on Day 1. Microsoft employs a gradual rollout strategy to ensure broad stability and compatibility with various system configurations. If you’re yearning for some of the cooler features and they don’t show up, hang tight—they’re on their way!Why KB5046740 is More Than Just Another Update
This release is noteworthy not only because it enhances daily usability but also due to Microsoft's shift toward elevating user empowerment:- Customizations and Accessibility: Features like tailored notifications, edge gesture toggles, and dynamic lighting options cater to both casual users and hardcore power-users.
- Security Under the Hood: LPAC’s deployment in IFilters is subtle yet impactful. It reflects a growing commitment to ensuring safer app execution environments.
- Smoother Multi-Device Integration: Whether it’s File Explorer embracing Android share or taskbars displaying dynamic live captions, Windows 11 feels increasingly less isolated from external devices and competing ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
The KB5046740 for Windows 11 Version 24H2 exemplifies purposeful design innovation and quality assurance. Whether you’re a productivity maven, an accessibility advocate, or just someone tired of Windows’ peculiar quirks, this update likely has something you’ll love—or need. Those new to updating their OS can also access step-by-step tutorials to guide them through the installation process.What’s your favorite part of this update? Got feedback or looking for solutions? Let’s hear from you on the forum! Share your experiences, ask questions, and dive deep into everything Windows 11 offers.
Source: WinCentral Windows 11 update KB5046740 download link & changelog