Introducing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25951: Key Updates & Enhancements

Introduction​

Microsoft has announced the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25951 in the Canary Channel. This build introduces significant changes and improvements aimed at enhancing the user experience and security features in Windows 11.

Noteworthy Updates Include​

• SMB NTLM Blocking: The SMB client now supports blocking NTLM for remote outbound connections, adding a layer of protection against potential security threats. This change restricts NTLM data from being sent over the network, enhancing enterprise security without entirely disabling NTLM usage.
• SMB Dialect Management: The SMB server now enables the control of negotiated SMB 2 and 3 dialects, providing administrators with the ability to manage and configure SMB client and server dialects.
• Network Flyout Enhancement: The Lock screen network flyout has been refined to match the UI of the network flyout in the system tray quick settings on the taskbar, ensuring a consistent user experience.
• Improved Search Box Experience: Users will notice an upgraded search box experience on the taskbar, facilitating easy access to apps, files, settings, and web searches. Additional features like search highlights enhance the search functionality.
• Animations on News and Interests Taskbar Button: Icons on the news and interests taskbar button now exhibit animations when new announcements appear or when interacted with, providing a more engaging experience.

Known Issues and Investigation​

• Users may encounter issues with popular games on recent Insider Preview builds in the Canary Channel. Feedback on game performance is encouraged for further optimization.
• Investigations are ongoing regarding the accessibility of the print queue, with reports indicating that it may no longer be accessible.

Developer Resources​

Developers can access the latest Windows Insider SDK for .NET and C++ packages via NuGet Gallery, providing comprehensive support for app development and integration in CI/CD pipelines. The Canary Channel serves as a platform for previewing significant system changes before wider release. Builds in this channel undergo limited validation and documentation before being offered to Insiders. While major issues may arise, these builds help test new functionalities and improvements for future Windows releases.

Published Date​

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:04:28 +0000

Source​

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25951 (Canary Channel)

 

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Introduction​

Microsoft has introduced Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25987 in the Canary Channel, emphasizing essential changes and improvements.

What’s New in Build 25987​

Changes and Improvements:

• During setup (OOBE), users without Wi-Fi drivers can now install them by clicking the “Install Drivers” button if drivers were previously downloaded.
• The Windows Maps and Movies and TV apps will no longer be installed after a clean OS install, ensuring a streamlined installation experience and providing access to these apps via the Microsoft Store.
• Delivery Optimization settings under Windows Update have been revamped to align with the design principles of Windows 11.
• PNG files now support metadata viewing and editing, enabling users to modify properties such as star ratings, descriptions, and keywords.

Fixes and Known Issues​

• Resolved an issue causing File Explorer to crash in Windows Sandbox when using a non-English display language.
• Known issues include blank options on the Personalization and Privacy & Security settings pages that may lead to a crash in Settings, as well as investigations into safe mode reboot hangs.

Microsoft Store Update​

Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels from version 22310.xxxx.x onwards will see improvements in selecting installation locations for games like Starfield, Halo Infinite, and Forza Motorsport, allowing users to specify the installation drive and folder location for games.

About the Canary Channel​

• The Canary Channel serves as a testing ground for critical platform modifications and major API changes before wider distribution, showcasing potential advancements in the Windows kernel and other key components.
• Builds in the Canary Channel are not tied to specific Windows releases, allowing for rapid experimentation and testing of new features that may or may not make it to final Windows releases.
• Limited documentation is provided for Canary Channel builds due to their early-stage nature and swift release schedule, with full details typically available only for pivotal features and issues.

Conclusion​

This release underscores Microsoft’s iterative approach to refining Windows 11 and engaging with the Insider community to gather feedback on new features and enhancements.
Published Date: Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:04:06 +0000.

 

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On November 14, 2024, Microsoft rolled out the Release Preview Channel Build 26100.2448 (KB5046740) for Windows 11 Insiders. This substantial update not only introduces progressive tweaks to the Windows Setup experience but also addresses various UI and performance issues, making it a noteworthy release for users eager to optimize their experience with Microsoft’s latest OS.

What's New in Build 26100.2448?​

As with every build in the Windows Insider program, this release brings a mix of valuable features, interface enhancements, and bug fixes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the improvements and modifications included in this build:

Enhanced Windows Setup Experience​

• Out of the Box Experience (OOBE): The Windows Setup process has received enhancements that aim to make the initial experience smoother and more intuitive, which is crucial for new users diving into Windows 11 for the first time.

User Interface Improvements​

• Start Menu and Taskbar Updates:
• Jump Lists for Pinned Apps: Users can enjoy added functionality in the Start menu where apps with jump lists will now display options when right-clicked.
• Taskbar Changes: The system tray has been streamlined to show a condensed date and time format, with options to revert to the full display if desired.

Functionality Upgrades​

• Touchscreen Gesture Settings: New controls allow users to enable or disable edge gestures for touch devices, customarily enhancing usability.
• Dark Mode Support: Task Manager dialogs for disconnecting and logging off now support dark mode, providing a cohesive aesthetic for users who prefer that visual style.

Performance Improvements​

• DISM Fixes: The Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) has received critical fixes, notably addressing the StartComponentCleanup task, which previously hung at 71%, causing installation headaches for users.
• Clipboard Bug Resolutions: A vexing issue where clipboard history showed no content has been addressed, restoring functionality for copying and pasting across applications.

File Explorer Enhancements​

• Improved Sharing Capabilities: The context menu in File Explorer now allows direct sharing of content to Android devices, making cross-platform connectivity more seamless when paired with the Phone Link application.
• Search Functionality Overhaul: Search behavior has been refined—users should expect a more responsive and reliable searching experience through Windows Explorer.

Additional Fixes and Features​

• Display Issues: Resolutions have been rolled out for Mica material inconsistencies, particularly when using slideshow backgrounds—ensuring a more visually appealing interface.
• Dynamic Lighting Settings: A new feature that gives users more control over their RGB settings if they have compatible devices connected.

Why This Update Matters: Putting It in Perspective​

The build 26100.2448 goes beyond mere aesthetics. By enhancing the usability of foundational elements like the Task Manager and File Explorer, Microsoft is not just addressing complaints but also actively boosting productivity for users. For Windows aficionados and everyday users alike, these updates can translate to a more streamlined workflow and improved system responsiveness.

Real-World Implications​

These enhancements will be particularly beneficial for those who use Windows 11 in diverse environments—from business settings where users rely on functionalities like predictive text and file sharing to home setups where casual usage benefits from interface simplifications. Think of it as a little tuning under the hood of your favorite sports car, making it faster and more responsive when you're hitting that open road.

Final Thoughts​

While Windows 11 has seen its fair share of criticisms, updates like build 26100.2448 showcase Microsoft’s commitment to refining the user experience. As the update continues to roll out, users should keep their eyes peeled for these enhancements, which promise to create a more cohesive and user-friendly operating system. If you’re part of the Windows Insider Program, this is your cue to test out the new features and report back on your experiences—your feedback is vital in shaping the future of Windows.
For more technical details, you can check out Microsoft’s official blog post announcing this build. Are you excited about the changes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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Source: Neowin Windows 11 build 26100.2448 (KB5046740) gets better Windows Setup, Mica fixes, DISM, more