Windows 11 Insider Update 22631.4534: New Features and Fixes Explained

  • Thread Author
Microsoft is rolling out a heftily packed update for Windows 11 insiders, introducing the Release Preview build 22631.4534. This latest endeavor indicates the company’s relentless quest to enhance user experience across the operating system. Let’s dive into what’s new, what’s improved, and how these updates could shape your day-to-day usage of Windows 11.

What's New?​

Start Menu Enhancements​

One of the most significant changes in this build is the addition of jump lists for pinned apps in the Start menu. Now, when you right-click on these apps, a convenient list of recent or frequently used documents and options will appear right at your fingertips. This improvement aims to streamline your workflow, reducing the number of clicks needed to access your files or tools.

Taskbar Tweaks​

The taskbar isn’t left behind either. Here are the fresh features you can expect:
  • Date and Time Display: The system tray will now show a shortened date and time format by default. But fret not! If nostalgia kicks in for the old, longer format, you can revert back through Settings > Date and Time.
  • Notification Management: Users who have toggled “Do Not Disturb” will notice that the notification bell icon may not show. Clicking the date and time brings you right to the notification center to check any missed alerts.

Touchscreen and Mouse Features​

Touchscreen users will appreciate the new section for edge gestures. In Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touch, you can toggle off the left or right edge gestures based on your preferences, allowing for a more tailored experience.
Mouse users have also received excellent attention, with the option to disable enhanced mouse pointer precision now tucked into Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Mouse. Plus, there's a fresh option to customize mouse scrolling direction—something every detailed user will welcome.

Task Manager and Disk Performance Insights​

Related to performance, the Task Manager now supports dark mode for its Disconnect and Logoff dialogs, making it visually cohesive for dark theme fans. Additionally, the Performance section will now detail the type of each disk connected to your system, giving you deeper insight into your storage capabilities.

Input Method Editor (IME) Updates​

For those using Chinese or Japanese characters, an update ensures the IME toolbar will automatically hide when apps are in full-screen mode. This alteration enhances focus without the distraction of additional toolbars.

Fine-tuning Windows Search​

Windows Search has seen improvements by running IFilters in Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC). This security enhancement restricts access to only necessary resources, thereby mitigating potential risks associated with compromised programs.

New Sharing Options in File Explorer​

Windows 11 22631.4534 introduces the ability to share content directly from File Explorer to an Android device via the context menu. However, users must first set up and configure Phone Link on their PC for this feature to work seamlessly.

Dynamic Lighting and Narrator Improvements​

If you have dynamic lighting devices, a placeholder message will appear on the Dynamic Lighting Settings page if no compatible devices are connected. Furthermore, Narrator improvements include functionalities that help users skip over links and access lists more efficiently—perfect for those long documents or webpages.

Speech Enhancements​

And for those who rely heavily on voice features, Microsoft is enhancing its speech-to-text and text-to-speech functionalities. Users can expect notifications about updating their language files for better performance on tools like Narrator, live captions, and voice access.

What's Fixed?​

In addition to new features, Microsoft has also addressed various bugs and stability issues, such as:
  • Activation Problems: Resolved an issue where Windows didn't activate after a motherboard replacement.
  • Bluetooth LE Audio: Fixed cases where certain Bluetooth devices, like hearing aids, failed to stream audio.
This comprehensive suite of updates emphasizes Microsoft’s commitment to continually refine Windows 11, providing users with both new capabilities and rectifying existing annoyances.

Conclusion​

The release of Windows 11 build 22631.4534 is not just an incremental update—it's a robust response to user feedback aiming to enhance productivity, accessibility, and security. For Windows users, these changes could dramatically enhance the everyday computing experience. As always, it’s advisable to partake in these beta tests thoughtfully, as early adopters will gain the advantage of exploring innovations before they become mainstream.
Whether you're a Windows aficionado or just someone trying to get through the workday, these updates are poised to elevate your interaction with your PC significantly. Dive into the build, explore the new features, and make the most of your Windows 11 experience!

Source: Neowin Windows 11 22631.4534 Release Preview brings new features for Start menu, taskbar, and more