Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27891 to the Canary Channel, introducing several notable changes and improvements.
Deprecation of Windows PowerShell 2.0
A significant change in this build is the removal of Windows PowerShell 2.0. This deprecation aligns with Microsoft's ongoing efforts to enhance security and streamline system components. Users are encouraged to transition to newer versions of PowerShell to maintain compatibility and security. Further details regarding this removal will be provided in upcoming Windows 11 updates.
Fixes and Enhancements
This build addresses several issues reported by Insiders:
- Reset This PC Functionality: Resolved an issue where the "Reset this PC" option under Settings > System > Recovery was non-functional in previous Canary Channel builds.
- Taskbar Transparency: Fixed an underlying issue that caused the taskbar to lose its acrylic material effect after upgrading to recent Canary builds. This fix also addresses related UI inconsistencies, such as unexpected black or white backgrounds in certain scenarios.
- Windows Update Downloads: Addressed a problem where Windows Update downloads would become stuck at 2%, ensuring smoother update processes for users.
- Language Rendering: Corrected rendering issues affecting languages like Vietnamese and Arabic, where certain characters were not displaying correctly, leading to nonsensical text in applications like Task Manager.
Alongside Build 27891, a Microsoft Store update is rolling out to Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels. While specific details of this update are not provided in the announcement, users can expect enhancements aimed at improving the overall Store experience.
Implications and Recommendations
The removal of Windows PowerShell 2.0 signifies Microsoft's commitment to phasing out outdated components in favor of more secure and efficient alternatives. Users relying on legacy scripts or applications should test and update their systems to ensure compatibility with newer PowerShell versions.
The addressed fixes enhance system stability and user experience, particularly concerning system recovery options, taskbar aesthetics, update reliability, and multilingual support. Insiders are encouraged to install this build to benefit from these improvements and provide feedback on their experiences.
As with all Canary Channel releases, features and fixes are subject to change based on user feedback and further testing. Users should stay informed through official Microsoft channels for the latest updates and guidance.
Source: Microsoft - Windows Insiders Blog Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27891 (Canary Channel)