Windows 11 Build 26100.4762 (KB5062660): New Features, Fixes & Gradual Rollout

Microsoft has recently released Windows 11 Build 26100.4762 (KB5062660) to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel, marking a significant update for users on Windows 11, version 24H2 (Build 26100). This build introduces a range of new features and improvements, some of which are being rolled out gradually, while others are available immediately.

Gradual Rollout Features​

Certain features in this update are being introduced progressively, meaning they may not be immediately available to all users. These include:

• Recall Enhancements: In the European Economic Area (EEA), Recall now supports exporting snapshots to share with trusted third-party apps and websites. Upon enabling snapshot saving for the first time, users receive a unique Recall export code required to decrypt exported snapshots. This code is displayed only once during initial setup and is not stored or recoverable by Microsoft. To export, navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security > Recall & Snapshots > Advanced Settings and authenticate with Windows Hello. Users can choose to export past snapshots from the last 7 days, 30 days, or all, or initiate a continuous export. Third-party apps can access exported snapshots only when both the export code and folder path are provided.

Normal Rollout Features​

The following features and improvements are being rolled out as part of this update and should be available to all users:

• Phone Link Enhancements: Users can now do more with their Windows PC and mobile devices through direct access to cross-device features from the Start menu. This includes making phone calls, sending SMS messages, accessing photos, and sharing content between mobile devices and the PC.
• Widgets: Web developers can now utilize their existing web content to create interactive widgets that can be added to multiple widget surfaces. Additionally, support for lock screen widgets has been introduced in the EEA, allowing users to add, remove, and rearrange widgets such as Weather, Watchlist, Sports, Traffic, and more. To customize lock screen widgets, go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
• File Explorer: Pivot-based curated views on File Explorer Home now support easier access to Microsoft 365 content on Windows, enhancing productivity by providing highly relevant content at your fingertips. Performance improvements have also been made to extracting zipped files, particularly when unzipping a large number of small files.
• Start Menu: An issue has been fixed where touch gestures could not be used to view the list of apps pinned in the Start menu. Additionally, the Sign out and More options in the Start menu account manager are now visible with increased text size.
• Taskbar: A fix has been implemented for an issue where using the arrow keys after pressing the Windows key + T would move in the wrong direction for Arabic and Hebrew display languages.

Notable Fixes and Improvements​

This update also addresses several issues to enhance system stability and user experience:

• Sign-In Impact: An issue affecting the USBxHCI controller and all devices connecting via USB ports on Intel(R) Core(TM) Ultra 200V Series Processors has been fixed. Previously, the built-in USB camera wouldn't work with Windows Hello sign-in unless Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS) was manually disabled. Users can now toggle ESS on or off via Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Additional settings > Sign in with an external camera or fingerprint reader.
• Server Message Block (SMB): An issue where an Excel file hosted on an SMB file share with Access Based Enumeration enabled, containing links to multiple other files hosted on network shares, might take longer to open has been addressed.
• Xbox: Fixes have been implemented for issues affecting Xbox Elite Wireless Controllers with certain firmware versions, where the keyboard might not function and displays an error indicator in the device manager. Additionally, the driver verifier no longer stops responding during gamepad controller driver certification, affecting Windows Hardware Quality Labs testing.
• Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist: The update adds to the list of drivers at risk for Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks, enhancing system security.

Critical Analysis​

The introduction of features like Recall enhancements and improved cross-device functionality through Phone Link demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to enhancing user productivity and system integration. The gradual rollout approach allows for monitoring and addressing potential issues before a wider release, ensuring a more stable user experience.
However, users should be aware that some features may not be immediately available due to the phased rollout strategy. Additionally, while the update addresses several known issues, it's essential for users to ensure their systems are up to date to benefit from these fixes.
Overall, Windows 11 Build 26100.4762 brings meaningful enhancements and stability improvements, reflecting Microsoft's ongoing efforts to refine the Windows 11 experience.

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Source: Microsoft - Windows Insiders Blog Releasing Windows 11 Build 26100.4762 to the Release Preview Channel

 

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Microsoft has recently released Windows 11 Build 26100.4762 (KB5062660) to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel, marking a significant update in the Windows 11, version 24H2 (Build 26100) series. This build introduces a range of new features and improvements, some of which are being rolled out gradually to users.

Gradual Rollout Features​

Certain features in this update are being introduced progressively, meaning they may not be immediately available to all users. This phased approach allows Microsoft to monitor feedback and ensure stability before a wider release.

Recall Enhancements​

A notable addition is the enhancement of the Recall feature within the European Economic Area (EEA). Users can now export snapshots to share with trusted third-party applications and websites. Upon enabling snapshot saving for the first time, a unique Recall export code is generated. This code is essential for decrypting exported snapshots and is displayed only once during the initial setup. Microsoft emphasizes that it does not store or recover this code, underscoring the importance of securely storing it. To initiate an export, users can navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security > Recall & Snapshots > Advanced Settings and authenticate using Windows Hello. Options are available to export past snapshots from the last 7 days, 30 days, or all, as well as to start a continuous export. Third-party applications can access these exported snapshots only when both the export code and folder path are provided.

Normal Rollout Features​

In addition to the gradual rollout features, this update includes several enhancements that are being made available to all users.

Improved Windows Search​

The update brings improvements to Windows Search, particularly on Copilot+ PCs. By integrating semantic indexing models alongside traditional lexical indexing, the search functionality is enhanced, making it easier to find documents, photos, and settings across Windows 11. This improvement is evident when searching in File Explorer, the Windows Search on the taskbar, or within Settings. Users are encouraged to plug in their Copilot+ PCs during the initial search indexing process to ensure optimal performance. The search indexing status can be checked under Settings > Privacy & Security > Searching Windows.

Task Manager Enhancements​

Task Manager has been updated to provide more detailed information about system performance. The Performance section now displays the type for each disk, offering users a clearer understanding of their storage devices. Additionally, the Disconnect and Logoff dialogs now support dark mode and text scaling, aligning with the overall aesthetic and accessibility improvements in Windows 11.

File Explorer Improvements​

File Explorer has received several fixes aimed at enhancing user experience. An issue where the "See more" button's menu expanded upward instead of dropping down has been addressed, ensuring that menus display correctly regardless of the window's position on the screen. Furthermore, the performance of extracting zipped files has been improved, particularly when unzipping a large number of small files, resulting in faster and more efficient file management.

Input and Accessibility Enhancements​

The update introduces a new Gamepad keyboard layout for the touch keyboard in Windows 11. This feature allows users to navigate and type using an Xbox controller, complete with button accelerators and vertically aligned keys for better controller navigation patterns. Additionally, voice access has been enhanced to support more natural language commands, providing users with the flexibility to speak commands naturally, using filler words and synonyms, rather than rigid, predefined commands. This improvement is initially available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs.

Settings and Personalization​

The Settings app has been updated to include "top cards" under Settings > System > About. These cards provide an easy way to view key specifications of the PC, such as processor, RAM, storage, and GPU, helping users understand their PC's capabilities at a glance. This feature is designed to simplify decision-making by highlighting potential areas for hardware improvements while giving a clear snapshot of the PC's specifications.

Critical Analysis​

The introduction of features like Recall enhancements and improved Windows Search demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to enhancing user productivity and data management. The ability to export snapshots securely and the integration of semantic indexing in search functionalities are significant steps forward. However, the reliance on unique export codes for Recall raises concerns about data recovery in case of code loss. Users must be diligent in storing these codes securely, as Microsoft does not offer recovery options.
The gradual rollout of certain features allows Microsoft to gather user feedback and address potential issues before a wider release. While this approach ensures stability, it may lead to inconsistencies in user experience, with some users having access to new features while others do not. Clear communication from Microsoft regarding rollout timelines and feature availability is essential to manage user expectations.
The enhancements to Task Manager and File Explorer address longstanding user requests for more detailed system information and improved file management performance. These updates contribute to a more efficient and user-friendly operating system. However, the introduction of new input methods, such as the Gamepad keyboard layout, may have a niche appeal and could benefit from broader compatibility and support to ensure widespread adoption.
In conclusion, Windows 11 Build 26100.4762 brings a host of new features and improvements that enhance user experience, productivity, and system performance. While the gradual rollout strategy allows for careful monitoring and refinement, it also necessitates clear communication to ensure users are informed about feature availability. As always, users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Windows Insider Program to help shape the future of Windows 11.

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Source: Microsoft - Windows Insiders Blog Releasing Windows 11 Build 26100.4762 to the Release Preview Channel