It’s that time of the month again, Windows enthusiasts! Microsoft has dropped their November 2024 Preview Cumulative Update, also dubbed KB5046740, for Windows 11 24H2. This update brings with it 14 new fixes and improvements designed to fine-tune your operating system. But hold onto your keyboards—because this isn’t your run-of-the-mill Patch Tuesday update. Let’s unpack everything you need to know, including what’s new, what works better, what might feel clunky, and how it all ties into the bigger picture of the Windows ecosystem.
Unlike the universally rolled-out Patch Tuesday updates that focus heavily on security fixes, these optional previews are all about addressing usability and minute quality-of-life improvements, which means they don’t include any security patches. However, they still offer a lot of value for everyday users and system administrators hoping to stay ahead of the curve.
You’ll want to install these updates if you fancy previewing new systems or solving a persistent bug sooner rather than later. But be warned—being a "preview update" also means it might come with a hiccup or two.
Remember, though, this is an optional update—so if none of the fixes profoundly impact your day-to-day use, you can skip it for now without any repercussions.
Businesses and IT admins, in particular, benefit from early previews of what’s to come. By testing these tweaks in controlled environments, they can dodge operational snags that might hit come next month’s mandatory rollout.
So, are you eager to give KB5046740 a spin or waiting for the dust to settle after Patch Tuesday next month? Let's hash it out in the comments below!
Source: BleepingComputer Windows 11 KB5046740 update released with 14 changes and fixes
First, What is KB5046740?
The KB5046740 update is a preview release that belongs to Microsoft’s optional non-security update series. Put simply, these updates give users a chance to test bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new functionalities a month before they're pushed universally in the next Patch Tuesday update. Think of this like a sneak peek with the added bonus of being hands-on.Unlike the universally rolled-out Patch Tuesday updates that focus heavily on security fixes, these optional previews are all about addressing usability and minute quality-of-life improvements, which means they don’t include any security patches. However, they still offer a lot of value for everyday users and system administrators hoping to stay ahead of the curve.
You’ll want to install these updates if you fancy previewing new systems or solving a persistent bug sooner rather than later. But be warned—being a "preview update" also means it might come with a hiccup or two.
Key Enhancements and Bug Fixes in KB5046740
Let’s get into the meat of this update. Once installed, this cumulative update will bump your Windows 11 build to version 26100.2454, packing a handful of minor but meaningful improvements:1. Improved Device Interaction with Androids
- Added a seamless way to share content from File Explorer and the desktop’s context menus directly to your Android device via the Phone Link app. Whether it's transferring work documents or sharing photos for editing, this small tweak streamlines cross-device connectivity for on-the-go multitaskers.
2. Text-to-Speech and Accessibility
- Significant improvements in the Narrator, voice typing, live captions, speech-to-text, and live translations. If you rely on accessibility features or just fancy voice input, the smoother and faster integration for these tools is a welcome upgrade.
3. Secondary Display Fixes
- Resolved those annoying cases of lag and screen tearing when running full-screen windows on secondary monitors. Whether gaming or using multiple monitors for work, screen fluidity is back on track.
4. Clipboard History Woes? Fixed.
- You might have experienced the clipboard history feature showing "no content" even when you’re sure you copied something. That’s fixed now.
5. OOBE Experience Renamed
- The "Tailored Experiences" option in Out-of-Box-Experience (OOBE) got rebranded to “Personalized Offers,” with added clarity on how your device usage data is shared. It’s a small but evident step towards making privacy settings transparent.
6. Mouse Pointer & Visual Cues Updated
- Fixed an issue where using the “Show pointer when CTRL is pressed” feature resulted in near-unnoticeable circles on certain displays. It’s back to being useful and visible now.
7. Jump Lists Enhanced
- Now, holding Shift + CTRL while clicking a Jump List item opens the program directly with administrative privileges. Power users, your shortcut prayers are answered.
8. The Do Not Disturb Bell Icon
- Aesthetic tweak: When the “Do Not Disturb” mode is toggled on, the bell icon might no longer show up in the system tray for clarity (and less distraction).
What’s the Catch? Known Issues to Keep in Mind
Given that this is a preview update, it’s not devoid of issues—particularly for gamers using Windows ARM devices. Microsoft acknowledges two notable hiccups:- Roblox Trouble: Users may not be able to download or play Roblox via the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 ARM devices.
- Game Audio Spikes with USB DACs: Some gaming setups using USB digital-to-analog converters (DACs) experience abrupt rises in audio volume. Not ideal when you’re mid-battle in your favorite game, but a workaround is likely on its way.
How to Install KB5046740
Installing this preview update is straightforward but does require a manual nudge. Here’s the quick rundown:- Go to Settings → Windows Update.
- Hit Check for Updates.
- Look for KB5046740, and click on Download and Install.
Remember, though, this is an optional update—so if none of the fixes profoundly impact your day-to-day use, you can skip it for now without any repercussions.
What’s Missing in December
Heads up, Microsoft confirmed that there won’t be an Optional Non-Security Preview Release for December 2024, citing minimal operations during the holiday season. However, they’ll still push out monthly security updates during the month to ensure devices stay protected. Non-security previews will return in January 2025.Broader Implications: Why Should Users Care About Preview Updates?
While they may seem innocuous, updates like KB5046740 reflect Microsoft’s slow yet steady refinement of Windows 11, which is becoming more integrated, accessible, and utility-oriented than ever. Cross-device features like sharing to Androids hint at where Windows is headed—a more universal (and seamless) overarching ecosystem à la Apple. Meanwhile, updates like accessibility enhancements or multi-display fixes enhance niche but vital user experiences.Businesses and IT admins, in particular, benefit from early previews of what’s to come. By testing these tweaks in controlled environments, they can dodge operational snags that might hit come next month’s mandatory rollout.
Should You Install It?
In a nutshell:- Yes, if you’ve been struggling with Clipboard issues, secondary screen lags, Android sharing quirks, or want a sneak preview of integrated text-to-speech.
- No, if your setup is stable and you’d rather avoid the possibility of bugs like the Roblox or sound issues mentioned earlier.
In Closing
Although KB5046740 isn’t game-changing, the small improvements add up—especially if you’re the kind of user who engages with accessibility options, manages multiple display setups, or just appreciates polished user interactions. Plus, as we edge closer to 2025, these cumulative refinements show Microsoft’s doubling-down on delivering both usability and seamless cross-platform integration.So, are you eager to give KB5046740 a spin or waiting for the dust to settle after Patch Tuesday next month? Let's hash it out in the comments below!
Source: BleepingComputer Windows 11 KB5046740 update released with 14 changes and fixes