Microsoft has just released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25231 to the Dev Channel. This build brings several minor improvements and bug fixes that Insiders will find useful. Here, we'll break down the key changes and why they matter for Windows users.
## Key Updates and Improvements
### The Expanded Features
Spelling Dictionary Sync: Starting with Build 25179, the spelling dictionary now uses a language-neutral word list. It syncs across all devices tied to the same Windows account. You can toggle this feature via:
Tablet-Optimized Taskbar: Available to all Dev Channel Insiders since Build 25197. This taskbar adapts for more efficient use on tablets.
System Tray Improvements: Introduced in Build 25211, these improvements include drag-and-drop functionality, enhancing ease of use.
Simplified Chinese IME: The cloud suggestion feature of the Simplified Chinese Input Method Editor (IME) is now available for all Insiders.
### Bug Fixes
System Tray: Tooltips will now correctly display when spatial audio is enabled.
Settings:
- Removed the backplate from UWP app icons in "Apps > Default apps" and "Apps > Apps for websites".
- Improved text consistency in the Wi-Fi section of Quick Settings.
- Resolved an issue that prevented adding certain network cameras.
- Enhanced DPI-awareness during setup.exe initiation from a mounted ISO.
Other Fixes:
- The
- FIDO issues for unlocking PCs when connected to external displays are resolved.
- Fixed crashes in apps like Paint and Windows Terminal when displaying tooltips.
## Known Issues
Even with these excellent updates, some issues remain:
- General: Audio problems and app crashes have been reported.
- Tablet-Optimized Taskbar: Flashing taskbar and Quick Settings gesture issues.
- System Tray Updates: Hidden icons flyout causing File Explorer entries to appear and chat apps not flashing with new messages.
- Start Menu: Some folders not opening on the first attempt.
- Input: Text cursor becoming white on white in text fields.
- Widgets: Animation issues in right-to-left display languages.
- Installation Issues: SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION bugcheck when installing via the latest ISO.
## New Feature: Instant Hotspot for Samsung Devices
The Phone Link app introduces instant hotspot access for Samsung device users. Connect to your phone’s Wi-Fi network right from your PC without entering passwords or navigating through phone settings.
### Requirements
- Samsung device with One UI 4.1.1+
- PC with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters
- Hotspot capable SIM card plan
- Windows 11, version 22H2 Build 22621+
- Updated Phone Link and Link To Windows apps
You can initiate the setup from the "What’s New" dialog or the overflow menu in Phone Link settings.
## Final Thoughts
The Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25231 offers substantial improvements and fixes, enhancing the overall user experience. For those in the Dev Channel, these updates show continuous effort from Microsoft to refine and enhance Windows 11.
For more information and a complete list of known issues, you can read the full blog post.
Stay tuned to WindowsForum.com for the latest updates!
## Key Updates and Improvements
### The Expanded Features
Spelling Dictionary Sync: Starting with Build 25179, the spelling dictionary now uses a language-neutral word list. It syncs across all devices tied to the same Windows account. You can toggle this feature via:
Code:
Settings > Accounts > Windows backup > Remember my preferences > Language preferences.Tablet-Optimized Taskbar: Available to all Dev Channel Insiders since Build 25197. This taskbar adapts for more efficient use on tablets.
System Tray Improvements: Introduced in Build 25211, these improvements include drag-and-drop functionality, enhancing ease of use.
Simplified Chinese IME: The cloud suggestion feature of the Simplified Chinese Input Method Editor (IME) is now available for all Insiders.
### Bug Fixes
System Tray: Tooltips will now correctly display when spatial audio is enabled.
Settings:
- Removed the backplate from UWP app icons in "Apps > Default apps" and "Apps > Apps for websites".
- Improved text consistency in the Wi-Fi section of Quick Settings.
- Resolved an issue that prevented adding certain network cameras.
- Enhanced DPI-awareness during setup.exe initiation from a mounted ISO.
Other Fixes:
- The
FindWindow and FindWindowEx functions now return expected windows.- FIDO issues for unlocking PCs when connected to external displays are resolved.
- Fixed crashes in apps like Paint and Windows Terminal when displaying tooltips.
## Known Issues
Even with these excellent updates, some issues remain:
- General: Audio problems and app crashes have been reported.
- Tablet-Optimized Taskbar: Flashing taskbar and Quick Settings gesture issues.
- System Tray Updates: Hidden icons flyout causing File Explorer entries to appear and chat apps not flashing with new messages.
- Start Menu: Some folders not opening on the first attempt.
- Input: Text cursor becoming white on white in text fields.
- Widgets: Animation issues in right-to-left display languages.
- Installation Issues: SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION bugcheck when installing via the latest ISO.
## New Feature: Instant Hotspot for Samsung Devices
The Phone Link app introduces instant hotspot access for Samsung device users. Connect to your phone’s Wi-Fi network right from your PC without entering passwords or navigating through phone settings.
### Requirements
- Samsung device with One UI 4.1.1+
- PC with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters
- Hotspot capable SIM card plan
- Windows 11, version 22H2 Build 22621+
- Updated Phone Link and Link To Windows apps
You can initiate the setup from the "What’s New" dialog or the overflow menu in Phone Link settings.
## Final Thoughts
The Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25231 offers substantial improvements and fixes, enhancing the overall user experience. For those in the Dev Channel, these updates show continuous effort from Microsoft to refine and enhance Windows 11.
For more information and a complete list of known issues, you can read the full blog post.
Stay tuned to WindowsForum.com for the latest updates!
You can check out our Windows Insider Program documentation here. Also, check out Flight Hub for a complete look at what build is in which Insider channel.
