On November 8, 2024, Microsoft unveiled Windows 11 Build 27744 to testers in the Canary Channel, marking a notable milestone in its ongoing pursuit of enhanced functionality, particularly for ARM devices. This latest release not only bolsters support for ARM architecture but also introduces a variety of visual and functional tweaks that promise to improve user experience. Let's dive into the details of this build, what it means for users, and its broader implications.
The Start Menu has undergone a minor rebranding, with the "All apps" section simply renamed to “All,” reflecting a streamlined approach to navigation. For gamers, a new "Gamepad" layout has been integrated into Keyboard settings, designed to facilitate smoother integration with Xbox controllers—an upgrade that promises enhanced gaming experiences.
As we continue to observe these developments, one must wonder: Is Microsoft laying the groundwork for a future where ARM devices might dominate the Windows landscape? With ongoing updates and improvements, only time will tell how these enhancements will shape the Windows experience moving forward.
For those passionate about the latest in technology and Windows, keep your eyes peeled for further updates, and consider sharing your thoughts on the implications of these changes in the forum!
Source: ExtremeTech Windows 11 Build 27744 Released to Canary Channel With Improved ARM Support
Boosting ARM Support
One of the most significant highlights of Build 27744 is the updated Prism emulator, which facilitates the running of x86 (64-bit) applications on ARM devices. Microsoft has made substantial strides in enabling better CPU feature usage within Prism, supporting advanced capabilities such as AVX (Advanced Vector Extensions), AVX2, FMA (Fused Multiply Add), and XSAVE. This means that a wider array of x64 applications can now run natively on ARM systems, thereby expanding the software landscape available to users who may have previously been limited by compatibility issues. It is important to note, however, that this enhancement currently applies only to 64-bit applications, leaving 32-bit or mixed-architecture apps still at a disadvantage.Importance of ARM Compatibility
As we stride further into an era dominated by mobile and lightweight computing, ARM architecture has steadily gained traction, especially in laptops and tablets. This transition allows for devices that are lighter, longer-lasting, and efficient. By improving ARM support in Windows 11, Microsoft is not just keeping pace with the trends but also catering to a growing demographic of users who seek high performance without the drawbacks of traditional x86 devices.Task Manager Visuals and Usability Tweaks
In addition to ARM enhancements, significant changes have been made to the Task Manager interface. The Users tab now features a dark mode-friendly pop-up that allows for easier disconnection or logoff actions, all while maintaining a cleaner aesthetic. Moreover, users can now view the type of disk in use directly from the main interface, providing immediate visibility into storage details.The Start Menu has undergone a minor rebranding, with the "All apps" section simply renamed to “All,” reflecting a streamlined approach to navigation. For gamers, a new "Gamepad" layout has been integrated into Keyboard settings, designed to facilitate smoother integration with Xbox controllers—an upgrade that promises enhanced gaming experiences.
Simplified System Management
The build also introduces a new feature within the System > Storage > Disks & Volumes settings, allowing users to quickly detach VHD/VHDx files. This enhancement is particularly useful for power users who manage virtual hard drives frequently, minimizing the steps required to perform everyday tasks.Addressing Existing Bugs
No new release is without its fair share of challenges, and Microsoft acknowledges this. Build 27744 addresses several pressing bugs, including a notorious black screen issue tied to older Nvidia GPUs, improvements to the Emoji Panel and Clipboard History, and fixes for performance hiccups in Windows Sandbox. Moreover, the build rectifies the 60Hz dynamic refresh rate lock, which has been a thorn in the side for many users.Looking Ahead
While these features are currently available only to Canary Channel testers, Microsoft aims to roll them out more widely in the near future. For users keen to explore these new functionalities, joining the Windows Insider Program's Canary channel is an option, albeit with caution. The Canary channel is notorious for its instability, and non-technical users may encounter substantial bugs that disrupt daily tasks.Final Thoughts
Windows 11 Build 27744 represents a clear commitment by Microsoft to improve performance and user satisfaction, especially for those leaning towards ARM architecture. The improvements in ARM support open up new possibilities for application usage on lighter devices, while the visual and functional updates to the Task Manager signify a focus on user-friendly interfaces.As we continue to observe these developments, one must wonder: Is Microsoft laying the groundwork for a future where ARM devices might dominate the Windows landscape? With ongoing updates and improvements, only time will tell how these enhancements will shape the Windows experience moving forward.
For those passionate about the latest in technology and Windows, keep your eyes peeled for further updates, and consider sharing your thoughts on the implications of these changes in the forum!
Source: ExtremeTech Windows 11 Build 27744 Released to Canary Channel With Improved ARM Support
