Windows 11 Insider Build 27695: LAPS Enhancements & Widget Updates

Microsoft has recently rolled out a new build of Windows 11 for members of its Insider Program participating in the Canary Channel. The build number, 27695, brings a host of improvements, particularly to the Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS), along with other feature enhancements, bug fixes, and some known issues. This update marks the first Canary Channel release since August 15 and sets a new expiration date for these builds of September 15, 2025 .

What’s New in Build 27695​

1. Enhanced Windows LAPS​

Perhaps the most significant enhancement in this build is the improvement to the Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS). This feature now allows administrators to recover encrypted passwords from Active Directory backups even when there are no domain controllers functioning. This enhancement is crucial in disaster recovery scenarios, providing improved security over traditional password storage methods. LAPS encrypts passwords using the Cryptography API: Next Generation Data Protection API (CNG DPAPI) . Using the Get-LapsADPassword PowerShell cmdlet, users can now retrieve and decrypt LAPS passwords directly from Active Directory backups that are accessible, even on machines that are not domain-joined. This offers significant advantages during recovery situations in which domain services may be down, allowing password retrieval under various conditions .

2. Widgets Entry-Point Changes​

Another notable feature in Build 27695 is the re-positioning of the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars. The new position, located to the left of the system tray, is wider and promises to show more diverse content. When users launch the Widgets board, it will now expand from the right side of the screen rather than the left .

3. Enhanced Notification Management​

The update introduces an option to manage notifications more effectively. Users can now disable suggestions for disabling notifications from certain applications, which enhances user control over the notification experience. This feature can be accessed through the Settings > System > Notifications .

4. New Sharing Options​

Microsoft has also updated the Windows Share functionality to allow easier content sharing to Android devices. This feature requires pairing with Android devices through the Link to Windows app and Phone Link on the PC .

5. Improvements to the Widgets Board​

The Widgets Board has been updated to enhance both the security and the APIs used for interacting with widgets and feeds, particularly for users in EEA regions. Some existing widgets may be temporarily removed or modified during this transition, but it lays the groundwork for upcoming features .

Changes and Improvements​

General Updates​

• Expiration Dates: The expiration date for builds released to the Canary Channel has been adjusted to September 15, 2025, starting from Build 27691.
• Installation Time Estimates: Some users may notice an estimated offline time for their PCs while installing updates displayed in the Windows Update settings .

Bug Fixes​

Several bug fixes have been implemented to improve the overall experience:

• File Explorer: Issues regarding incorrect pane focus and searches in dark mode have been addressed, enhancing accessibility for users with screen readers .
• Task Manager: Color issues in dark mode have been corrected, improving visual consistency across UI elements .
• Windows Sandbox: Previously, users faced errors when trying to launch the Windows Sandbox; this has now been resolved .

Known Issues​

While Build 27695 includes numerous improvements, several known issues persist:

• Copilot+ PCs: Users transitioning to the Canary Channel on new Copilot+ PCs from other channels may lose their Windows Hello PIN and biometric sign-in options. Microsoft is working on rectifying this issue .
• Emoji Panel: An ongoing issue causes the emoji panel to unexpectedly close when accessing certain sections or during selection, which Microsoft is also addressing .

Historical Context and Implications for Users​

Windows LAPS, introduced in 2020, filled an important gap in IT security by addressing administrator account password management weaknesses. With many organizations moving towards a more decentralized or hybrid infrastructure, the need for secure, easily retrievable administrative passwords has never been more critical. The enhancements in Build 27695 not only bolster the security of these passwords but also ensure continuity of access during emergencies . Moreover, the positioning changes in the Widgets board reflect Microsoft’s continued commitment to enhancing user interfaces to create more organized and visually appealing experiences. Managing app notifications more effectively aligns with user expectations for customization in operating systems, emphasizing user control over system alerts and information .

Conclusion​

The release of Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel Build 27695 introduces significant enhancements, particularly around security with Windows LAPS and improvements to user interface features like the Widgets component and notification management. While the build rectifies several issues from previous iterations, it also highlights ongoing challenges, particularly in seamless transitions for users upgrading their environments. As the Windows Insider Program evolves, Community users can expect ongoing developments and improvements, and they are encouraged to engage actively via the Feedback Hub to influence future builds. The implications of these updates stress the importance of adaptive IT security measures and a responsive user experience in modern operating systems .

Note​

For a full overview of the changelogs and specific instructions on executing the new functionalities, refer to Microsoft’s official channels or the Windows Insider Blog . Source: Neowin Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel build 27695 adds a Wi-Fi password setting change [Update]

 

[ChatGPT]

Microsoft has unveiled a new build of Windows 11 for users in the Insider program, specifically for those subscribed to the Canary Channel. This release, numbered 27695, comes after an extended hiatus since the last Canary Channel update on August 15. The new features primarily enhance the Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) and introduce several other improvements, bug fixes, and known issues.

Key Highlights of Build 27695​

1. Windows LAPS Enhancements​

One of the standout features in this build is the improved Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS). Historically, keeping administrator passwords secure within an organization has been a challenge, especially when facing unforeseen circumstances where Active Directory (AD) services may be offline. With these improvements, users can now recover encrypted passwords from Active Directory backups even when there are no functioning domain controllers available.

• How This Works:
• The Get-LapsADPassword PowerShell cmdlet has been updated to allow recovery without network interaction. It can now retrieve encrypted passwords from the AD backup media using the -Port and -RecoveryMode parameters, even from non-domain-joined machines.
• This change significantly enhances operational resilience and minimizes downtime during disasters, ensuring critical system access is maintained.

2. Taskbar and Widgets Updates​

Microsoft is testing a new position for the Widgets entry-point in left-aligned taskbars. In this update, the Widgets icon will now move to the left of the system tray, providing a wider display of content. When invoked, the Widgets board will open from the right side of the screen, allowing easier access. [*Feedback Mechanism:

• Users can provide their experiences and suggestions via the Feedback Hub, ensuring user-driven improvements in later versions.

3. Better Notification Management​

Another notable change involves notification management. Users now have the option to disable suggestions that prompt them to deactivate notifications from specific applications. This option allows for a cleaner experience and less disruptive interaction with apps that might push frequent alerts.

4. Windows Sharing Features​

The new build introduces more efficient content sharing capabilities to Android devices directly from the Windows sharing interface. This requires users to pair their Android devices with their Windows systems via the Link to Windows application.

5. Improvements in Widgets API​

The Widgets board will receive a security update and enhancements to the APIs used for creating widgets. This update aims at providing a more seamless experience for users in the European Economic Area (EEA). The process sets the foundation for new widgets and features expected to roll out shortly.

6. Fixes and Known Issues​

Build 27695 addresses various bugs affecting system performance and usability: [*File Explorer*: Resolves issues where keyboard focus would not function as expected under specific conditions. [Task Manager**: Fixes inaccuracies in color displays within the Performance section while using dark mode. [*Windows Sandbox: Corrects failures in launching Windows Sandbox, addressing error 0x80070005. However, users should be aware of existing known issues, particularly those using Copilot+ devices, which might face login problems involving Windows Hello and the inability to access previously stored PINs until set up again.

Implications for Windows Users​

The updates in build 27695 have significant implications for Windows users, especially those managing system access and operations within larger organizations. The enhanced security features and functionality surrounding Windows LAPS bring a new level of operational assurance during crises and disruptions. Furthermore, modifications to the taskbar and Widgets enhance user experience, adapting to preferences that streamline navigation and accessibility. These shifts reflect Microsoft's commitment to user feedback and continual improvement of the Windows operating environment.

Conclusion​

In conclusion, the release of Windows 11 Insider build 27695 marks a considerable step forward in terms of security, usability, and functional enhancements. The improvements surrounding Windows LAPS, taskbar adjustments, widget functionalities, and notification management collectively enhance the Windows 11 ecosystem. For those involved in IT management and user administration, these changes not only provide stronger security measures but also contribute to smoother operational workflows. As the Canary Channel continues its testing phase, feedback from insiders will be pivotal in fine-tuning these updates, setting the stage for future releases of Windows 11. Source: Neowin Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel build 27695 adds a Wi-Fi password setting change [Update]