Windows 11 Canary Build 27718: Media Controls, Pinned Apps & Navigation Improvements

In an exciting update for Windows enthusiasts, Microsoft has released a new Canary build, version 27718, focusing on refining the user experience in several key areas of Windows 11. This build addresses some long-standing issues and introduces features that improve usability, media control, and system navigation—great news for anyone participating in the Insider program.

What's New in Build 27718?​

1. Enhanced Lock Screen Media Controls​

One of the standout enhancements in this build is the improvement to the lock screen media controls. Users will find the media controls repositioned to the center bottom of the lock screen when audio is playing. This change aims to create a more intuitive and accessible interface for controlling media without needing to unlock the device.

2. Pinned Apps Functionality​

In a move that brings efficiency to the Start menu, Microsoft has enhanced the ability to pin apps. Users can now drag apps directly from the Start menu's pinned section to the taskbar, simplifying access to frequently used applications. This is a small but significant tweak that can save time for users who rely on the taskbar for productivity.

3. Improvements in Windows Update Process​

The Windows Update process has also seen a facelift. Among the updates are design improvements for the dialog that informs users of actions needed before an update can proceed. This includes clearer icons and spacing, aiming to better communicate with users regarding space requirements and compatibility issues.

4. Taskbar Navigation Enhancements​

The taskbar has been updated with first letter navigation. This feature allows users to focus on the taskbar (triggered by WIN + T) and jump to open or pinned applications with initial letter keys. If several applications share the same starting letter, pressing the letter consecutively will cycle through the open apps—great for multitaskers who want to navigate quickly.

5. Notification Management​

The build introduces an option for users to disable notification suggestions. This allows for a more streamlined notification experience, where users can manage which notifications they want to receive without having to deal with unnecessary suggestions—keeping the workspace clutter-free.

6. Narrator and Accessibility Improvements​

The Narrator tool, which assists visually impaired users, has undergone enhancements to speed up response times in scan mode, specifically during web browsing with Microsoft Edge and when reading documents. This improvement could significantly boost the user experience for those relying on audio feedback for navigation.

7. Bug Fixes and Known Issues​

With every new build comes the hope of resolving previous issues. Build 27718 addresses several bugs, including:

• Fixing explorer.exe crashes that some users experienced in earlier Canary builds,
• Resolving a hang at the boot screen that resulted in rollbacks for certain Insiders,
• Addressing issues with the emoji panel that sometimes failed to open correctly.

However, like any new software, this build isn't without known issues. Notably, users migrating to this build may encounter problems related to Windows Hello for PIN recovery. Microsoft is aware of these issues and plans to address them in future updates.

Final Thoughts​

Microsoft's commitment to refining Windows 11 is evident in the latest Canary build. With enhancements aimed at improving media control, taskbar navigation, and notification management, Windows Insiders have much to look forward to.
Whether you are a seasoned insider or a curious Windows user just peaking into the latest developments, this build is a crucial step toward a more polished and user-centric operating system. As always, stay updated on future builds and improvements, as the Windows experience continues to evolve.
For those interested in testing these new features, joining the Windows Insider program is an excellent way to get a firsthand look at what the future holds for Windows 11.
Source: Neowin Microsoft improving Windows 11 Update, Lock Screen, Pinned Apps, with Canary build 27718