Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25236 New Features Fixes and Known Issues

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Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25236 to the Dev Channel, bringing a plethora of improvements and bug fixes. This build is primarily aimed at testing the servicing pipeline but also introduces several new functionalities and known issues that users should be aware of.



## Key Highlights



### Improvements in Search Functionality

- Windows Search Tips: Microsoft is experimenting with providing tips directly on the taskbar to improve the overall search experience. This update is currently available for select English-speaking Insiders in the U.S.



### Narrator Updates

- Natural Voices: Fixed issues causing Narrator voices, such as Guy or Jenny, to not operate correctly.

- Pinned Status Announcement: Narrator will now announce the pinned and unpinned status of apps in the taskbar.



### Taskbar and System Tray Fixes

- Hidden Icons Flyout: Resolved an issue where opening the hidden icons flyout resulted in an unnecessary File Explorer entry in the taskbar.

- Taskbar Previews: Fixed issues related to freezing or blank taskbar previews.

- System Tray Icons: Addressed multiple bugs, including issues with the volume icon and GDI handle leaks causing explorer.exe crashes.



### File Explorer Enhancements

- Resolved crashes occurring when closing tabs.

- Fixed erroneous divider lines in the navigation pane.



### Settings Adjustments

- Battery Graph: Now hidden on the Power & Battery page when a UPS is connected.

- Kiosk Setup: Improved text clarity in the Accounts section to better guide the setup process.

- Audio Devices: Correctly displays input/output status in System > Sound.



### General Fixes

- Addressed SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED bug checks.

- Adjustments made to color filter settings for better usability.



## Known Issues

- Audio Issues: Some Insiders report audio problems after upgrading.

- App Crashes: Investigating crashes in various apps and games.

- UI Glitches: Reports of disappearing UI elements.

- Projecting Modes: WIN + P and Quick Settings projection modes issues being investigated.

- Taskbar Flashes: Occasional flashing during posture changes.

- System Tray Issues: Chat apps not showing message previews.

- Start Menu Bugs: Issues opening folders and garbled text for Chinese users.

- Text Cursor Visibility: Difficulty seeing the cursor in text fields.



## Microsoft Store Update

Insiders on version 22210.1401.x will see:

- Easier redemption of digital offers like Office and Game Pass.

- Improved scrolling and resizing experience in search card results for low-powered devices.



## Developer Insights

- SDK Update: The latest Windows Insider SDK is available, enhancing CI/CD pipeline integration with granular package access for .NET and C++.



## Conclusion

This build, while mainly aimed at testing backend processes, comes with significant improvements and a slew of fixes. Note the known issues, as they might impact your usage. For full details, visit the Windows Insider Blog.



Stay tuned for more updates and keep on sharing your valuable feedback!



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Important Links:

- Windows Insider Program Documentation

- Flight Hub



Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with Build 25236 in the comments below!