Windows 11 Build 22635.4300: New Clock Widgets & Significant Updates

In an exciting update for Windows 11 Insiders, Microsoft has rolled out Build 22635.4300 under update KB5044386. This new build boasts a fresh clock widget alongside a countdown timer, enhancing the Windows 11 user experience, especially for those who rely on planning and timing for their tasks.

What's New with Build 22635.4300?​

The New Clock Widgets​

One of the most anticipated features in this build is the introduction of two new widgets for the Clock app: the Countdown and Timer widgets. This addition is particularly useful for those who like to keep track of time-sensitive tasks, whether for work, exercise, or even cooking!

• How to Access the Widgets: Users can easily add these widgets by accessing the widgets board. Clicking the “+” button in the top right corner allows users to pick and customize their widget layout, making the integration smooth and efficient.
• Update Requirements: To use these new widgets, ensure that the Clock app is updated to version 11.2408.9.0 or higher, available via the Microsoft Store.

Improvements and Bug Fixes​

In addition to the aesthetic upgrade with the new widgets, Microsoft’s latest build includes several under-the-hood improvements and fixes:

• Start Menu: Simplifications have been made to the Start Menu, now simply labeled "All" instead of "All apps." This change aims to streamline user navigation.
• Fonts: A new Simplified Chinese font, Simsun-ExtG, has been introduced. This font supports over 9,700 ideographs and includes the unique character for Biangbiang noodles—widely regarded as one of the most complex Chinese characters.
• Security Enhancements: Windows Search has received an upgrade, now running in Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC). This significant change minimizes the impact of potential security breaches by limiting access to only the resources that specific processes need.
• General Fixes: Users may notice that prior issues, such as a high incidence of explorer.exe crashes, are resolved. Other improvements to the File Explorer layout enhance usability and accessibility.

Known Issues​

As with any beta release, some hiccups persist:

• Spacing in Start Menu: Users have reported excessive spacing between items in the Start Menu after installing this build. This is noted as an area still needing attention.
• Live Captions: An issue has been identified where live captions may crash upon activation when using this build.

Broader Implications for Windows Users​

The enhancement of widgets in Windows 11 illustrates Microsoft’s commitment to continuously evolving the user experience, making daily computing more intuitive and efficient. The addition of a countdown and timer not only caters to productivity but also enriches the widget ecosystem in the Windows environment.
Windows users can expect such features to further integrate into the ecosystem, allowing for a more personalized and functional interface. Widgets have quickly become a central aspect of the modern computing experience, and the new additions under KB5044386 set a positive precedent for future updates.

Wrap-Up​

As always, Microsoft encourages users to provide feedback using the Feedback Hub (WIN + F), particularly regarding new features like the Clock app. As Windows 11 continues its iterative development, the feedback loop between Microsoft and its users remains crucial.
For those on the beta channel, keep an eye out for more updates and improvements as we move closer to the next stable release of Windows 11!

Get Involved and Stay Informed​

Join in on conversations about Windows updates and share your experiences in our forums. Your feedback and discussions are vital in shaping the Windows experience for everyone.
Embrace the new features and happy clocking!
Source: Neowin KB5044386: Microsoft brings new widget for clock and countdown timer with Build 22635.4300