Windows 11 Insider Build 22635.4082: Enhanced Lock Screen and Bug Fixes

Microsoft has rolled out a new build of Windows 11 for eligible members of the Windows Insider Program, specifically within the Beta Channel. The latest update, designated build number 22635.4082 and identified under KB5041876, introduces significant modifications to the Windows 11 Lock screen, particularly enhancements relating to media controls, alongside several other changes designed to improve user experience .

Key Features of Build 22635.4082​

1. Lock Screen Modifications​

The standout feature of this update is the redesign of the Lock screen media controls. Users will now see these controls positioned at the bottom center of the Lock screen when media playback is active. This change aims to create a more intuitive and accessible interface for managing audio or video playback without the need to unlock the device .

2. Improvements in Notifications​

Alongside the Lock screen changes, Microsoft has introduced an option that allows users to deactivate suggestions for disabling notifications from specific applications. This can be accomplished by accessing the settings within the notification itself or through the Notifications menu under Settings > System .

3. Settings Interface Update​

The update also revamps the settings page for Delivery Optimization, which can be found at Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options. This redesign aligns with the overall aesthetic goals of Windows 11, creating a more cohesive user experience .

4. General Fixes and Improvements​

This release also addresses several bugs and performance issues reported by users. Notable fixes include:

• Taskbar & System Tray: Resolved an issue causing explorer.exe to crash for some users when closing applications via the taskbar.
• Start Menu: Fixed a bug that led to crashes upon attempting to launch the Start menu .
• Other Fixes: Addressed a memory leak that was triggered by specific notifications and removed a legacy registry key related to domain join hardening changes.

5. Known Issues​

Despite the improvements, the Insider team has acknowledged some ongoing issues. There are reports of File Explorer crashing when interacting with archived files. Additionally, users have experienced crashes when navigating to the Home section of File Explorer in the recent builds .

Historical Context​

The Windows Insider Program has become a crucial element of Microsoft's development strategy, allowing users to experience and provide feedback on early builds of Windows 11. This iterative process ensures that user insights directly inform development, leading to a more polished final product. Since its inception in 2014, the Insider Program has continually evolved, offering a glimpse into upcoming features and changes that shape the Windows operating system . With the introduction of build 22635.4082, Microsoft appears to be focusing on enhancing usability and accessibility. The Lock screen's media control revamp addresses feedback from users looking for swift and straightforward ways to control playback, reflecting a greater emphasis on user-centered design.

Implications for Windows Users​

For Windows enthusiasts and everyday users within the Windows community, these updates highlight Microsoft's commitment to refining the user experience through feedback loops and rigorous testing. The changes not only enhance day-to-day usability but also align with broader trends in software development that prioritize personal customization and accessibility . As builds continue to roll out, it’s essential for users—especially those participating in the Beta Channel—to provide feedback. This collaborative effort enhances the development process and ensures that issues are addressed before wider public releases.

Conclusion​

In summary, the Windows 11 Insider Beta Channel build 22635.4082 brings forward important updates, particularly regarding the Lock screen's media controls, which enhance user interaction with media while maintaining a sleek interface. With notification management improvements and various bug fixes, the update not only contributes to a more seamless user experience but also emphasizes Microsoft's ongoing dedication to user feedback and responsiveness . For comprehensive details, the complete changelog can be accessed directly through Microsoft's official blog . Source: Windows 11 Insider Beta Channel build 22635.4082 (KB5041876) includes Lock screen changes

 

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Microsoft continues to roll out incremental updates for Windows 11, enhancing the operating system's functionality and user experience. Recently, the company released Windows 11 Build 22635.4082 to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel, introducing features such as new notification options and improvements to the lock screen. These changes aim to provide users more control over the notifications they receive and refine the overall appearance of the user interface.

What You Need to Know​

The latest Windows 11 Insider build enables users to turn off notifications suggestions related to specific apps. This is particularly useful as users can now click on an ellipsis ("...") icon within the notification to disable it, or they can navigate to the Settings app to adjust their preferences. One might find it a bit ironic that a feature allowing users to hide notifications about hiding notifications has been added, yet the goal here is to minimize potential distractions. Additionally, Microsoft has adjusted the placement of media controls on the lock screen, moving them to the lower center of the screen when media is playing, enhancing accessibility while multitasking.

Detailed Overview of Build 22635.4082​

Notification Management​

• New Functionality: This build allows users to disable notification suggestions that prompt users to turn off notifications from certain apps. By clicking the newly introduced ellipsis icon, users can effectively manage their notification preferences directly within the app notifications.
• Settings Navigation: For users who prefer doing this manually, they can go to Settings > System > Notifications to manage these suggestions. The setting titled "Notification Suggestions" will only appear after relevant notifications have been received, making it easier to find once the feature has been used.

Lock Screen Enhancements​

• Media Controls: The update improves how media controls are displayed when music or videos are playing in the background. By repositioning these controls to the bottom center of the lock screen, user interactions become more intuitive and seamless.
• Continuous Updates: Windows 11 has been focused on refining the lock screen experience. Just last month, a new "Weather and more" widget was added, allowing further personalization options for users.

Changes in Settings​

• Delivery Optimization Design: Under Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization, Microsoft has redesigned the interface to better align with Windows 11 aesthetics. This update helps streamline user interactions, particularly for users concerned about where their updates come from.

Bug Fixes​

In addition to new features, Microsoft has resolved various bugs in this release, including:

• Taskbar Issues: Fixing a crash related to the explorer.exe process when closing apps from the taskbar.
• Start Menu Stability: Addressing an issue where the Start menu would unexpectedly crash for some users.
• Memory Leak: Resolving a bug that caused a memory leak stemming from specific notification receptions.

Contextualizing the Update​

With every update to Windows 11, Microsoft showcases an ongoing commitment to improving user experience. Users have increasingly expressed a need for better control over notifications, given that the digital landscape is filled with distractions. As such, the ability to manage notifications effectively lets users personalize their computing experience, reducing unnecessary interruptions. This release specifically reflects Microsoft’s intent to tackle feedback from beta testers and regular users alike. Earlier versions of Windows have been criticized for overwhelming users with notifications, particularly with the growing number of apps that push alerts. Therefore, this update is not just technical in nature; it speaks to user-driven design choices aiming at a more refined operating system experience.

Looking Forward​

For those who want to explore what’s coming beyond Build 22635.4082, the current Beta Channel builds are inspired by Windows 11 version 23H2. Insiders interested in experiencing future updates need to enroll in different rings to access features targeting Windows 11 version 24H2.

Implications for Users​

As these updates roll out more broadly, users can expect a smoother experience in handling notifications and a more visually cohesive interface. This approach allows not just for a cleaner aesthetic but also fosters a more productive environment, especially for those using their devices for work. In a world where interruptions are commonplace, Microsoft’s latest move serves re-evaluate how notifications are handled, allowing users to maintain focus during work and leisure.

Conclusion​

The rollout of Windows 11 Build 22635.4082 signifies Microsoft’s commitment to refining the operating system based on user feedback. With useful features aimed at controlling notification suggestions and improving the lock screen functionalities, users now have more direct control over how their Windows experience is shaped. These actions reflect enduring trends in the tech world, prioritizing user agency and customization amidst a cluttered notifications landscape. Users who have enrolled in the Windows Insider Program are encouraged to explore these updates and provide feedback, ensuring the future versions of Windows 11 evolve further in line with user needs. For full details about the Windows 11 Build 22635.4082 updates, refer to the original article on Windows Central: Upcoming Windows 11 update will let you silence another type of notification