Windows 11 Beta Build 22635.4445: File Explorer and Taskbar Upgrades

Greetings to the explorers of the Windows universe! It's time to kick off 2025 with a fresh, pixel-packed peek at the latest tweaks and tricks Microsoft is offering to Windows Insiders on the Beta Channel. Enter the scene: Windows 11 Beta build 22635.4660. This recent rollout is not here just to shake off the holiday cobwebs; it's updating our digital dashboards with some refreshed context menus, improved magnifier tools, and a handful of other changes that promise to make our computing lives just a little bit easier.

Context Menus: Labels Make the World Go 'Round​

If you're the kind of user who right-clicks more often than you breathe, this update is tailored just for you. The new build includes revamped context menus, which now flaunt labels for common file actions like cut, copy, paste, rename, share, and delete. This might sound like a simple upgrade, but consider this: clarity and ease of use often hide in the details. Think of these labels as road signs in the bustling city of File Explorer, helping users navigate with newfound ease and a bit of grace.

Under the Hood with Context Menus​

For the technically inclined, context menus in Windows are part of the operating system's graphical interface that allow users to interact with files and applications via a secondary menu that usually appears upon right-clicking an object. This latest iteration improves usability by adding textual representations of the most frequently used commands, making the interface more intuitive, especially for those who are new to the Windows ecosystem or just prefer a straightforward experience.

Magnifying the Magnifier​

Take a deep breath and zoom in—literally. This build expands on Windows 11's previously introduced Magnifier functionalities. It now provides buttons to reset zoom to fit your screen or revert to your preferred magnification with ease. Additionally, the build includes a keyboard shortcut — CTRL + ALT + Minus — that swiftly transitions between the current zoom and a 1X zoom, introduced earlier in build 22635.4515. For developers, designers, or anyone dealing with minute details on their screen, this has the potential to simplify your workflow, making precision just a click—or keystroke—away.

Zooming In on Details​

The Magnifier tool is part of Windows accessibility features, designed to assist users with visual impairments. By allowing custom magnification levels and now quick zoom reset options, it caters not only to those who need enhanced visual aids but also to power users who demand precision in their display navigation.

Dimming the Lights on Suggested Actions​

An interesting turn with this update is the deprecation of suggested actions that appeared when you copied a phone number or future date. Windows 11 is stepping back from this feature, disabling it in the current build. While it sounded useful in theory, in practice, not enough users may have been engaging with it. This decision might open the door to different innovations that better align with user habits and expectations.

Fixes on the Horizon​

Every good storyteller knows to tie up loose ends, and this build ensures to do just that. One significant fix involves improving File Explorer’s performance and reliability, which addresses some pesky performance issues insiders might have encountered. File Explorer, that steadfast companion in our daily digital journeys, receives another polish to minimize hiccups and maintain smooth operations.

The Wider Picture​

For the keen-eyed observer, these updates are another piece of the evolving puzzle that is Windows 11. Microsoft continues to finesse user experience while addressing performance beats under the hood, ensuring the OS stays vibrant and responsive. It's also an example of how user feedback is utilized within the Windows Insider Program to iterate on and refine features before they hit the mainstream audience.

What’s Next on the Beta Horizon?​

As this update gradually rolls out through the Beta Channel, we'll be keeping our ears to the ground waiting for insiders' feedback. They serve as early detectors for potential bugs and are the first to explore treasures—or discover pitfalls—within new builds. For the rest of us observing the spectacle from afar, the changes inch us closer to what might soon become standard fare in Windows 11’s journey.

Final Thoughts​

For the Windows enthusiasts and tech tinkerers among you, these updates might hold the key to streamlined operations and freshened up user interfaces. For those resting comfortably in the stability of current builds, it's a taste of what lies ahead as Microsoft continues to adjust its sails based on the navigational charts drawn by insiders' feedback. Grab that magnifying glass, inspect those context menus, and gear up for a smoother, more intuitive experience.
Feel free to dive into our WindowsForum for discussions and comments. What's your take on these updates? Are you a context menu connoisseur or a magnifier aficionado? Join the conversation!

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Source: Neowin Windows 11 Beta build 22635.4660 brings new context menus to Windows 11 23H2

Windows Insiders have a reason to celebrate with the rollout of Windows 11 Beta build 22635.5170, part of the upcoming 23H2 release. This build, identified as KB5055623, brings a series of measurable enhancements—most notably in File Explorer—along with several bug fixes and UI improvements that promise to refine the overall user experience.

A Closer Look at the Build​

This new Beta update may not be revolutionary at first glance, but it is indicative of Microsoft’s iterative approach that targets those persistent annoyances and design inconsistencies users have flagged over time. From subtle tweaks to more visible function changes, build 22635.5170 underscores Microsoft’s commitment to balancing modern design aspirations with tried-and-true functionalities.

General Improvements​

The release packs a handful of general enhancements and fixes that contribute to smoother system performance. While the improvements may seem incremental, they reflect the painstaking fine-tuning that goes into every Insider build. These tweaks are intended to boost overall stability and responsiveness, ensuring that those running the Beta version can experiment without being bogged down by performance hiccups.
Key takeaways from the general improvements include:

• System-level optimizations that create a more responsive user environment.
• Minor fixes addressing various user-reported glitches.
• An emphasis on ensuring smoother interactions across multiple components of the OS.

These adjustments might not win awards for dramatic overhaul, but they set the stage for a more polished release down the line.

File Explorer Gets a Modern Makeover​

One of the standout highlights of build 22635.5170 is the revamp in how File Explorer handles folder launches from external sources. This change is aimed at streamlining the file management process—an area where Windows has historically shown both strength and room for improvement.

New Tab Functionality​

Traditionally, when opening folders from desktop shortcuts or within other apps, Windows File Explorer would launch a separate window. In this new update, if there’s already an existing File Explorer window open, folders launched from external links will automatically open in a new tab within that window. This mirrors the tabbed experience seen in modern web browsers and promises to declutter the desktop experience.

• If you prefer the old behavior of opening a new window, the system provides an easy workaround. Simply adjust your File Explorer folder options under General > Browse Folders.
• This tabbed approach not only helps in organizing multiple folder sessions on one screen but also reduces the proliferation of windows—a boon for users managing extensive file systems.

Imagine transforming your File Explorer into a multi-tabbed browser for files—a clean, efficient, and modern approach to navigating your digital workspace.

Context Menu Labels: A Toggle in Flux​

Earlier builds (from Build 22635.4660) introduced labels for common actions like cut, copy, paste, rename, share, and delete directly in the File Explorer context menu. While many welcomed this effort at first, the experience was not universal. In build 22635.5170, Microsoft has disabled these newly introduced labels, leaving enthusiasts with the classic, unlabelled icons.
For users who found the labels helpful, there’s a silver lining: Insiders in the Beta Channel can upgrade to the Windows 11 version 24H2 flights to get the change back. This toggling of features highlights Microsoft’s experimental approach in refining user interface elements based on real-world feedback.
In summary:

• New tab functionality enhances the usability of File Explorer.
• Context menu labels are currently disabled in this build, but can be restored in later flights for those who favor additional clarity.
• Users have the flexibility to choose their preferred navigation style, ensuring that the update caters to a variety of user habits.

Start Menu and Input Enhancements​

Beyond File Explorer, the update also targets improvements in the Start menu and input responsiveness—two critical components that many users rely on daily.

Start Menu Fixes​

One significant fix in this build resolves an issue associated with increased text sizes within the Start menu’s account manager. Previously, when users opted for larger text in the interface for better readability, key functions such as the sign out button and additional options were sometimes rendered invisible. This oversight has now been corrected, ensuring a consistent and accessible user experience regardless of customized display settings.
However, the Start menu isn’t entirely without quirks. Insiders have reported that when using the new grid and category views on the “All” page, right-clicking on an app sometimes briefly displays the “Start settings” context menu before the correct app-specific menu appears. While this is more of a cosmetic hiccup, it serves as a reminder that even as improvements are made, some rough edges remain.

Input Consistency Post Remote Desktop​

Another notable fix addresses an issue wherein certain applications might cease responding after a remote desktop session is disconnected. For professionals who rely on remote connections for work, this bug was a source of occasional frustration. With the update, Windows 11 now ensures that input functionality remains stable after disconnecting from a remote session, reinforcing the operating system’s reputation as a dependable productivity tool.
Bullet summary of these fixes:

• Start menu adjustments ensure that all critical account options are visible at larger text sizes.
• A transient visual glitch in the new Start menu grid view is still under observation.
• Improved reliability for applications after remote desktop disconnects bolsters productivity and stability.

The Insider Experience: Bug Reporting and Iterative Refinement​

While the improvements introduced in build 22635.5170 bring welcome changes, they come with a few known issues. The Start menu, for example, continues to exhibit some quirks with its new grid layout—specifically, the brief and unwanted appearance of the “Start settings” context menu. This serves as a reminder that even well-intentioned changes can lead to unexpected behavior in complex software environments.
Microsoft is actively soliciting feedback from Windows Insiders to fine-tune these aspects before rolling out any final public release. If you encounter persistent issues, taking a moment to file a detailed report via the Windows Feedback Hub can help shape the development trajectory. Every piece of feedback accelerates the process of smoothing out these kinks, ultimately enhancing the experience for all users.

Embracing Change: What This Update Means for Your Workflow​

The evolution of File Explorer to support tabbed browsing is more than a mere visual tweak—it’s a strategic move aimed at modernizing the core file management tool of Windows 11. By reducing window clutter and allowing more fluid navigation between folders, Microsoft is addressing a long-standing wish list item for power users. Moreover, the option to switch back to the previous behavior ensures that the update remains flexible and user-centric.
Consider a scenario where you’re working on a project that requires juggling multiple folders spread across various directories. Instead of navigating through numerous separate windows, the new tabbed interface makes it far easier to manage and switch between file locations. This is akin to organizing your workspace with multiple tabs in a web browser—a method that streamlines your workflow, reduces cognitive overload, and keeps your digital environment tidy.

For the Casual User and the Tech Aficionado Alike​

While these enhancements may mostly appeal to power users and IT professionals, they also deliver subtle benefits to everyday users. A more robust and stable File Explorer can reduce the friction involved in organizing media, documents, and downloads on a daily basis. Similarly, resolving the inconsistencies in the Start menu and ensuring reliable input even after remote sessions mean that all users, regardless of their tech savviness, enjoy a smoother, more polished interaction with their PCs.

• Daily task management becomes less of a hassle with a modern, tab-centric File Explorer.
• Accessibility improvements in the Start menu cater to users with diverse visual needs.
• Stability fixes ensure that both casual and professional users experience fewer disruptions.

Diving Into the Beta Channel: How to Get Involved​

For those excited to test out build 22635.5170, the process is straightforward—but it comes with the usual caveats associated with beta software. As with all Insider builds, it’s wise to take certain precautions:

• Ensure your device is enrolled in the Windows Insider Program.
• Open Windows Update settings and select the Beta Channel.
• Initiate the update, and monitor the installation process.
• Backup your important files beforehand—beta builds can sometimes introduce unexpected issues that might compromise data stability.

This proactive approach not only safeguards your system but also positions you to actively contribute to the evolution of Windows 11. By providing timely feedback, you help Microsoft iron out the wrinkles before these features make it to a broader audience.
A quick checklist for early adopters:

• Back up critical data.
• Double-check your Insider settings.
• Join discussion forums to share your experiences.
• Monitor updates and patch notes for further refinements.

The Broader Implications: A Glimpse Into Windows 11’s Future​

Every build that rolls out from the Insider Program offers a window into the future direction of Windows 11. With build 22635.5170, Microsoft is clearly experimenting with modern, user-friendly paradigms—like tabbed navigation in File Explorer—that hint at where the operating system is headed. Such features are not merely cosmetic; they represent significant shifts in the way users interact with their systems.
The ongoing dialogue between the development team and the community ensures that the evolution stays rooted in real-world usage and feedback. The toggling of context menu labels, for example, implies that Microsoft is willing to experiment and iterate until the optimal balance between clarity and simplicity is achieved. It’s a forward-thinking strategy that both honors the legacy of Windows and steps boldly into the future.
Looking back at the evolution of desktop interfaces, one can see that the future lies in adaptability. The transition from multiple windows to tabbed browsing is already a staple in web browsers and now seems destined for file management systems. This reflects a broader trend in software design where the emphasis shifts from rigid partitioning to a fluid, layered approach that suits the demands of modern multitasking environments.

Final Thoughts: Innovation in Progress​

Build 22635.5170 is a testament to the iterative nature of software development. Instead of one sweeping overhaul, what we see here is a series of deliberate, thoughtful adjustments aimed at improving everyday interactions. While some issues remain—such as the transient glitch in the Start menu—the overall direction is clear: Microsoft is steadfast in its commitment to a refined, user-centric experience.
For professionals, enthusiasts, and everyday Windows users alike, these enhancements represent more than just convenience. They illustrate a deeper philosophy of continuous improvement, where even the smallest tweaks can lead to significant productivity gains over time. The new File Explorer behavior, the fixed bug in Start menu accessibility, and the input improvements following remote sessions all contribute to a more reliable and modernized operating system.
To summarize the key points:

• Build 22635.5170 brings a new default behavior in File Explorer by opening external folders in new tabs, aligning file management with modern multitasking trends.
• Enhancements in the Start menu ensure better visibility of essential buttons at increased text sizes while addressing intermittent contextual glitches.
• The fix for input interruptions post-remote desktop sessions exemplifies Microsoft’s responsiveness to the real-world demands of remote work.
• Although some known bugs remain, the Insider community’s feedback is vital for expediting further refinements.

As Microsoft continues to shepherd Windows 11 through its evolution, this build stands as a reminder of the power of community-driven innovation. For those willing to venture into the beta realm, every update offers a chance to directly influence the final shape of one of the world’s most popular operating systems.
Whether you’re an IT professional looking to streamline your workflow, a power user eager for the latest enhancements, or simply a Windows enthusiast keeping a close eye on development, build 22635.5170 is a substantial step forward. Embrace the change, remember to report your experiences, and enjoy the journey toward a continually evolving and more powerful Windows 11 ecosystem.

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Source: Neowin Windows 11 build 22635.5170 is out in Beta Channel with File Explorer improvements and more

Windows 11 has a new Beta build under the hood that’s stirring conversations among Windows Insiders. Build 22635.5170, rolling out with version 23H2 and KB5055623, comes layered with subtle yet impactful tweaks aimed at refining the everyday Windows experience. With a focus on File Explorer enhancements, Start menu adjustments, and behind-the-scenes fixes, Microsoft is clearly listening. Let’s take a detailed stroll through this update and see how it might shape your workflow.

A Closer Look at the Update​

Microsoft’s continuous approach to refining Windows 11 echoes its attention to users’ evolving needs. This latest Beta build is more than a mere patch—it’s part of an ongoing cadence to iron out quirks and incorporate new usability features. Among the most prominent changes is the revamp in the behavior of File Explorer. But there’s more under the hood than just a new way to open folders.

What’s New in File Explorer?​

One of the headline features in build 22635.5170 revolves around a change to File Explorer’s handling of file and folder launches:

• New Tab Experience:
  When you launch File Explorer folders from outside of an existing File Explorer window—say, clicking a folder icon from the desktop or an app—the update now prompts these folders to open in a new tab if another File Explorer instance is already running. This tabbed approach is reminiscent of modern web browsers and aims to streamline multitasking. Although Microsoft had temporarily disabled this setting to address some reported issues, its reintroduction suggests a strong vote of confidence from the company tweaking along with user testing.
• Customization Remains in Your Hands:
  Preference is paramount. If you favor the classic experience where folders open in separate windows, you can still change it via File Explorer’s folder options under the General tab. This blend of innovation and familiarity is a reassuring nod to longtime Windows users.
• Context Menu Labels in Flux:
  The update also touches on File Explorer’s context menu. Previously, enhancements meant that unlabeled actions such as cut, copy, paste, rename, share, and delete came with explicit labels. However, for this particular build, the change is disabled. For Windows Insiders itching for more clarity in their context menus, the option to revert to that improvement is available in the Beta Channel if you opt into Windows 11, version 24H2 flights.

In essence, these modifications not only intend to improve usability but also encourage deeper engagement with multitasking through a familiar browser-like experience.
Key takeaway: Microsoft is aligning File Explorer with modern productivity expectations while retaining the flexibility of user customizations.

Addressing Reliability and User Interface Glitches​

Beyond the File Explorer tweaks, build 22635.5170 comes with several targeted fixes designed to quash ongoing issues and improve reliability across the board.

Start Menu and Account Manager Enhancements​

A noteworthy fix addresses an issue in the Start menu:

• Improved Visibility with Increased Text Size:
  Windows users who rely on increased text size settings have at times encountered a glitch where the sign out and additional options buttons in the Start menu’s account area might not appear. With this update, those using larger text sizes should see a more consistent and accessible interface. This fix is a relief to many who depend on accessibility features to optimize their system’s usability.

File Explorer Stability and Input Fixes​

Other behind-the-scenes improvements target system stability and input responsiveness:

• Crashes Mitigated:
  Earlier builds evidenced sporadic crashes in File Explorer during operations like copying or renaming files. In the current update, Microsoft reports that these specific issues have been addressed, which means fewer interruptions and a smoother file management experience—a significant boon for professionals dealing with large volumes of files.
• Remote Desktop Input Bug:
  Another fix tackles a quirk observed during remote desktop sessions. Previously, if you typed within certain applications after disconnecting from a remote session, the input might abruptly stop working. Now, after applying build 22635.5170, this behavior should be a thing of the past. Reliable input is critical for professionals who depend on remote connectivity, making this fix particularly valuable.

These updates provide a clearer signal that Microsoft is not just adding flashy features but is also committed to stability and performance enhancements in everyday tasks.

Known Issues and What to Watch For​

Even the most polished update has its rough corners. In this build, one issue in the Start menu remains a concern for early adopters:

• Start Menu Context Menu Glitch:
  Insiders have noted that when right-clicking on an app within the new grid and category views on the “All apps” page, an unexpected flash of the “Start settings” context menu can occur before the proper app-specific context menu is displayed. While this bug may seem trivial, it can disrupt the overall user experience, especially for those who rely heavily on right-click actions for rapid navigation and control.

For those participating in the Beta Channel, these known issues serve as a prompt to provide feedback so that Microsoft can refine and iron out these imperfections in future iterations.
Key takeaway: While stability and usability improvements have been prioritized, minor glitches persist—and your feedback as an Insider remains crucial for achieving a seamless user experience.

How This Update Fits into the Broader Windows Ecosystem​

Microsoft’s approach to iterative updates through the Insider program has long been a balancing act between innovation and reliability. Build 22635.5170 exemplifies this strategy:

• User-Centric Design:
  From refining how File Explorer manages windows and tabs to addressing interface inconsistencies in the Start menu, Microsoft demonstrates that user feedback is at the heart of development. The re-introduction of a new tabbed experience in File Explorer is particularly significant as it mirrors the shift in how modern software applications are adapting for multitasking environments.
• Beta Feedback Integration:
  By toggling some previously announced changes like the context menu labels, the build underscores the iterative nature of beta testing—where feedback directly influences which features make it into the final release and which are postponed for further refinement. This approach bolsters the value of being a Windows Insider, as each update is not only a glimpse into the future of Windows 11 but also directly shapes that future.
• Balancing New Features with Stability:
  Amid all the new functionalities, Microsoft has ensured that stability improvements hold equal importance. The targeting of specific glitches, such as the File Explorer crashes and remote input issues, signals a commitment to not just add bells and whistles but to ensure that these enhancements do not come at the expense of reliability.

Real-world example: Imagine managing a complex project as a freelancer, where multiple file operations and remote connections are part of your daily routine. The new File Explorer tabbed approach can simplify how you manage project folders, and the stability fixes can minimize downtime caused by crashes—leading to smoother operations and enhanced productivity.
Key takeaway: The update isn’t just adding features for features’ sake—it’s carefully calibrating the system’s performance and user experience based on real, everyday use cases.

Tips for Windows Insiders Navigating the Update​

For those eager to test out build 22635.5170, here are some tips to make the most of the new improvements while mitigating any workflow disruptions:

• Explore the New Tabbed Interface:
  Open File Explorer links from outside the existing window and see how the new tabbed setup compares to your previous file handling habits. If the new behavior isn’t your style, remember to adjust the settings in File Explorer folder options.
• Test Accessibility Settings:
  If you use larger text sizes, verify that the fixes on the Start menu account manager are effective. A few users might have still experienced issues even after a patch, so provide feedback if the problem lingers.
• Document Any Bugs:
  As you navigate through the new build, note any unexpected behavior—especially with the Start menu context menu. Detailed feedback can accelerate refinements for the next update.
• Stay Updated with Insider Notes:
  Follow Windows Insider communications to learn about upcoming changes and potential workarounds for any bugs you encounter. Being part of the Insider program means you have direct access to update logs and feedback channels.

Key takeaway: A hands-on exploration of the update coupled with active feedback will help shape the final, polished release of Windows 11.

Broader Implications for the Windows Insider Community​

This update is a microcosm of how Microsoft evolves Windows through the Insider program. The iterative design process is not just about what’s new; it’s also about learning what works and what doesn’t. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, these beta builds are a testing ground where the subtleties of system behavior come to the forefront.

• The Role of Incremental Improvement:
  In the fast-paced world of technology, radical overhauls are rare. Instead, incremental improvements like this build’s File Explorer enhancements demonstrate how continuous tuning based on user experiences can dramatically improve day-to-day operations over time.
• Preparing for the Future:
  Upcoming Windows 11, version 24H2 flights already hint at the return of context menu labels—a feature driven by user demand for clearer, more informative file management. This forward-looking approach underscores that even features temporarily disabled today may well be reintroduced in a refined form tomorrow.
• Community Engagement:
  Windows Insiders aren’t passive observers. Their input, ranging from bug reports to feature requests, directly influences the trajectory of Windows updates. As Microsoft gathers and integrates this feedback, the collective voice of its community shapes not only the immediate build but also the long-term evolution of the OS.

Key takeaway: The Insider program remains a vital component of Microsoft’s update strategy, blending cutting-edge features with essential user feedback systems to craft a more efficient OS.

Final Thoughts​

Build 22635.5170 is more than a simple update—it’s a glimpse into the future of Windows 11, where usability meets functionality head-on. With enhancements in File Explorer, adjustments in the Start menu, and fixes for long-reported issues, Microsoft is steadily moving toward an interface that’s both modern and deeply reliable.
The story here isn’t just about new features. It’s about the promise of sustained improvement: each small fix and thoughtful tweak contributes to a more seamless, productive Windows experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Windows Insider or someone curious about what’s coming next, this Beta build represents the ongoing dialogue between Microsoft and its users—a conversation in which every click and keystroke counts.
So, if you’re ready to test drive this evolution, dive into build 22635.5170 and share your thoughts. The feedback you provide today helps shape the polished, final release of Windows 11 tomorrow. After all, technology isn’t static—it grows with us, one update at a time.
Key takeaway: Embracing this Beta build can empower you, the user, to be a part of crafting the next chapter in Windows evolution. Enjoy the ride—after all, every innovation starts with a simple tweak in File Explorer.

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Source: Neowin Windows 11 build 22635.5170 is out in Beta Channel with File Explorer improvements and more