Windows 11 Insider Build 22635.4435: New Features and Improvements

In the ever-evolving world of Windows, Microsoft continues its quest to refine Windows 11 through the Insider Program. As of October 25, 2024, Microsoft's latest offering in the Beta channel is build 22635.4435, encapsulated under the KB5044377 update. This build introduces several exciting new features, including dynamic lighting enhancements and an updated admin keyboard shortcut, along with a suite of bug fixes that aim to refine the user experience further.

Dynamic Lighting Adjustments​

Perhaps the most visually impactful update in this build is the dynamic lighting changes. This feature allows users to control the aesthetic ambiance of their workspace. In this latest version, if no compatible devices are attached, the Dynamic Lighting settings page will show a placeholder message, indicating that the Brightness and Effects controls are currently disabled. However, for those with compatible devices, the settings page now boasts new directional options for lighting effects including Forward, Backward, Outward, and Inward for the Wave effect, in addition to a new Forward direction option for the Gradient effect. Such versatility can evoke various moods and help to create an atmosphere that resonates with the user's current activities, be it focused work or immersive gaming.

New Admin Keyboard Shortcut​

Microsoft hasn’t stopped at visual improvements; this latest build introduces a new admin shortcut. Insider members can now hold Shift + CTRL while clicking on a jump list item in the Start menu or taskbar, which will launch that item with administrator privileges. This mirrors the functionality already present when directly clicking the app icon. Such a feature simplifies tasks requiring elevated permissions, making system management more efficient for power users.

Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements​

In addition to exciting new features, build 22635.4435 comes packed with various bug fixes. Noteworthy fixes include:

• Taskbar Functionality: An issue preventing the X button for closing an app window from the taskbar was addressed, ensuring smoother multitasking.
• Game Mode Fixes: Updates implemented to correct mouse-related issues that could occur in gaming sessions when utilizing multiple monitors.
• Bluetooth and Product Activation: The update addresses a memory leak issue in devices and expands product activation phone number accessibility across different regions.

Copilot Key Configuration Returns​

For users who expressed concern about the removal of the Copilot key configuration in previous builds, worry not! Microsoft has reinstated this functionality in the current build. With refined controls, users can now limit the apps launched by the Copilot key to only those that have opted in, enhancing both security and privacy for those using this feature.

Changelog: A Comprehensive Overview​

Here's a detailed breakdown of the major updates and improvements in build 22635.4435:

• General Changes:
  • New admin shortcut for launching apps.
  []Dynamic Lighting:
  
  • Added directional options for lighting effects.
  []Taskbar:
  • Fix for the application close button.
  []Game Input:
  
  • Corrections for mouse functionality while gaming.
  []Copilot Key:
  • Restoration and refinement of configuration settings.

In summary, the Windows 11 Insider Beta build 22635.4435 represents a significant step forward for those keen on exploring what Microsoft has in store for its flagship operating system. With immersive dynamic lighting, enhanced administrative controls, and the reinstated functionality of the Copilot key, users have much to look forward to as they continue to shape the Windows experience. If you're eager to delve deeper, you can check out the full blog post linked here for additional insights. Happy testing!
Feel free to share your thoughts on these changes in the comments below or navigate through your Insider journey via the official Windows Forum.
Source: Neowin KB5044377: Windows 11 Insider Beta channel build 22635.4435 has dynamic lighting changes