Microsoft March Update Preview: Fixes and Features for Windows 11 22H2 & 23H2

Microsoft’s March update preview for Windows 11 builds 22H2 and 23H2 is here, and it’s aimed squarely at ironing out some long-standing glitches while sneaking in a handful of handy new features. With KB5053657 poised to update build versions 22621.5126 and 22631.5126, this preview not only smooths over annoyances that have bugged users for a while but also enriches the overall Windows experience with subtle enhancements.

A Refined Experience: Key Fixes and Enhancements​

Microsoft’s latest preview update is all about refining what many Windows users already love while tackling persistent hiccups. Let’s break down the major highlights:

• Printer Quirks Be Gone:
  For users who rely on printers that support both USB Print and IPP over USB, an unexpected issue has been fixed. Previously, some printers would inexplicably print incorrect or unwanted text after an update. This fix should put an end to those puzzling printouts, ensuring that printing tasks produce only the desired results.
• Remote Desktop “Get Help” Improvements:
  IT administrators and remote workers might have noticed that certain "Get help" troubleshooters weren’t running when initiated via remote desktop sessions. This update addresses that oversight, so troubleshooting support should now execute properly, greatly benefiting remote environments.
• Blue Screen Bug in VHD Profiles:
  There was an unsettling bug that could trigger a blue screen of death when user profiles were stored on a version 2 virtual disk drive (VHD(X)). This critical fix enhances system stability, especially in environments that use VHDs for profile storage.
• File System Filter Driver Enhancements:
  Not all fixes are lightning-fast to appear. Microsoft is distributing some corrections in stages, and one key improvement involves the file system filter driver. By ensuring that applications receive better notifications about directory changes and reducing unnecessary input/output operations, the update is set to boost system responsiveness and resource management.

Subtle Yet Smart User Interface Improvements​

Beyond the more technical fixes, Microsoft has peppered in some features designed to enhance everyday interactions:

• “Top Cards” in System Info:
  A new addition to the Settings app under “System” – “Info” brings what Microsoft calls “Top Cards.” These cards offer a quick overview of vital PC details such as processor type, memory capacity, and graphics card information. For the busy professional or the curious enthusiast, this means immediate access to system specs without delving through multiple menus.
• Gamepad-Friendly On-Screen Keyboard:
  Gamers and tech-savvy users alike will appreciate the revamped on-screen keyboard. The update supports a gamepad layout where keys like backspace and space bar can be activated via the gamepad (using keys such as X and Y). This tweak might seem small, but it’s a nod to users who juggle between gaming and traditional desktop tasks.
• Taskbar Emoji Icon:
  In a bid to make finding emojis and other related features more intuitive, a new taskbar icon has been introduced. This makes accessing playful and expressive elements of Windows even easier, blending functionality with fun.
• ctfmon.exe Bug Fix:
  Another behind-the-scenes improvement addresses an issue with ctfmon.exe. Previously, when data was copied from certain (as of yet unnamed) apps, the process would sometimes cause ctfmon.exe to become unresponsive. The update has resolved this bug, ensuring a smoother clipboard experience.

The Staged Rollout: Patience is Key​

It’s important to note that not every fix or new feature makes it into the update at the exact moment of release. Microsoft plans to roll out some changes in stages. This means that if you’re not seeing all the fixes immediately, there’s no cause for alarm—more refinements are on their way. For IT professionals, this staged approach calls for a watchful eye on subsequent patches to ensure all desired improvements are eventually implemented.

Why a Staged Update Plan?​

• User Feedback Integration:
  Rolling out updates gradually allows Microsoft to monitor user feedback and system performance, making adjustments as needed before a full-scale deployment. This iterative process ensures that any unforeseen issues can be caught and resolved quickly.
• Resource Optimization:
  A staged release helps avoid potential system bottlenecks, particularly in large enterprise environments where simultaneous updates across thousands of devices could otherwise trigger unexpected issues.

Anticipating Windows 11 24H2: What’s Next?​

While the current preview update fixes many bugs for Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2, those waiting for Windows 11 24H2 will have to exercise a bit more patience. Historically, update previews for the newest Windows 11 builds have been delayed by a day or more relative to the most recent build patches.

Remote Desktop and Audio Issues in Windows 11 24H2​

• Remote Desktop Enhancements:
  The Windows Release Health Notes for Windows 11 24H2 highlight further remote desktop fixes incorporated into the official March security updates. These updates tackle issues such as aborted or frozen RDP sessions—a problem that has been more than a minor nuisance for many remote administrators.
• Addressing Dirac Audio Concerns:
  A curious new issue was reported involving devices running Dirac Audio with the cridspapo.dll library, which could no longer output sound properly. Whether this glitch will be remedied in the upcoming preview remains to be seen, but it’s a clear signal that Microsoft continues to monitor and respond to user experiences even in advanced builds.

Behind the Scenes: The Tech Perspective​

Even though many of these fixes might appear minor at first glance, they have significant mechanical implications:

1. System Stability and Reliability:
   The blue screen fix for VHD-stored profiles is not just a cosmetic improvement—it’s a crucial measure to ensure that data integrity and user workflows aren’t disrupted by unexpected crashes. Stability is the unsung hero of a productive computing environment, whether in a corporate network or at home.
2. Optimizing Input/Output Operations:
   The refined communication between the file system filter driver and application notifications may seem like arcane tech talk for many users. However, in practical terms, it means that systems will now handle file operations more gracefully, potentially extending the lifespan of hardware by reducing needless strain.
3. Enhanced User Interaction:
   The tweaks in the user interface, such as the new top cards in system info and gamepad-friendly on-screen keyboard, might appear as small touches. But for users, especially those on Microsoft Surface devices or gaming rigs, these changes contribute to a more intuitive and less frustrating interaction with Windows.

Real-World Impacts and Use Cases​

Picture a remote worker in a busy corporate environment:
Remote desktop sessions are the lifeblood of their day, and any instability can interrupt not just work but critical business operations. The update’s fix for "Get help" troubleshooters and RDP session improvements means that remote support can function more reliably—even when a problem arises on a tight deadline.
Or think of a creative professional who regularly switches between editing documents and printing proofs. A printer suddenly churning out bizarre, incorrect text can halt a creative workflow, leading to wasted time and resources. With the new update’s printer fix, these frustrations are a thing of the past.
Even gamers find relevance here. With a more responsive on-screen keyboard designed around gamepad layouts, navigating between performance modes and chat functions in competitive games becomes a more seamless and enjoyable experience.

How to Prepare for the Update​

For both everyday users and IT professionals, preparing for the staged rollout of this preview update involves a few key steps:

• Back Up Important Data:
  Even though the update focuses on bug fixes, it’s always wise to back up critical data before installing any system update.
• Monitor Update Notifications:
  Because fixes are distributed in stages, keeping an eye on Windows Update notifications and release notes will ensure you’re aware when additional features take hold on your system.
• Engage with Community Feedback:
  Many Windows users, IT enthusiasts, and tech forums will be buzzing about their experiences post-update. Sharing insights can be beneficial, especially if you encounter issues that others might have already solved.
• Test in a Controlled Environment:
  For businesses, consider rolling out the update in a test environment before a company-wide deployment. This approach can help pinpoint any compatibility issues specific to your organization’s workflow.

A Glimpse Into the Future​

Microsoft’s approach of combining bug fixes with incremental feature enhancements is a strategic nod to the evolving landscape of Windows. As the company works on further updates for Windows 11 24H2, users can expect a balancing act between introducing new features and maintaining robust reliability. With remote work, gaming, and multimedia tasks forming the trifecta of modern computing, every seemingly minor tweak plays a vital role in the overall user experience.
The nuanced fix for applications failing to update promptly through file system notifications is just one example of the depth of engineering efforts behind every Windows update. Whether it’s through improving on-screen interfaces or handling legacy issues with precision, Microsoft’s ongoing work on Windows 11 reassures users that their operating system is continuously evolving to meet real-world demands.

Conclusion​

Microsoft's March update preview for Windows 11 builds 22H2 and 23H2 is more than just a simple bug fix—it’s a testament to the company’s dedication to refining the Windows experience. From correcting unexpected printer behavior and enhancing remote session functionalities to fortifying system stability and polishing the user interface, this preview update addresses both longstanding frustrations and introduces subtle new delights.
For Windows users who rely on a stable, intuitive system for work, creative endeavors, or immersive gaming experiences, these changes offer a fresh lease on reliability and performance. As we await further updates—particularly for Windows 11 24H2—the incremental improvements in this preview update serve as a reminder that, in the world of technology, sometimes the smallest fixes can have the biggest impact.
Keep an eye on further communications and let us know how these updates improve your Windows journey. Whether you’re a remote worker, IT professional, or avid gamer, there’s a lot to look forward to with this continual evolution of Windows 11.
Stay tuned for more insights on Windows updates and tech trends here at WindowsForum.com, where every update is dissected with precision and a touch of wit for your everyday computing adventures.

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Source: heise online Windows Update: Preview version corrects annoying errors