Windows 11 Update KB5046740: Fixes, Enhancements, and More

On November 15, 2024, Microsoft rolled out Windows 11 Build 26100.2448 (KB5046740) to the Release Preview Channel, signaling a significant step forward in addressing a multitude of bugs plaguing the operating system. This latest update not only brings a treasure trove of fixes but also introduces a slew of enhancements that are set to roll out gradually for users eagerly navigating version 24H2.

Key Fixes and Enhancements​

The KB5046740 update is robust, addressing numerous features and functionalities that have been causing headaches for users. Here’s a closer look at some of the most notable changes:

• Start Menu Improvements: Users will now enjoy enhanced right-click functionality on pinned apps within the Start menu, offering jump lists for easier navigation.
• Taskbar Tweaks: The system tray now presents an abbreviated date and time. Users who have activated the "Do Not Disturb" toggle may notice the notification bell icon disappears, although it can still be accessed by clicking on the date and time for quick message viewing.
• Touchscreen Options: A new section for touchscreen edge gestures has been added, allowing users to disable left or right screen edge gestures via the Settings app.
• Task Manager Updates: The dark mode support has extended to the Disconnect and Logoff dialogs, and performance indicators will now specify the type of disk each entry references.
• Input Method Editor (IME) Functionality: The IME toolbar will automatically hide during full-screen mode applications when typing in Chinese or Japanese.
• File Sharing Made Easy: You can now share content directly to an Android device through the context menu in File Explorer, provided the Phone Link is installed and configured.
• Enhanced Security with LPAC: Windows Search runs IFilters in Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC) to minimize damage from compromised processes by restricting access to sensitive system components.
• Dynamic Lighting Features: The update introduces new lighting options, including direction settings for wave effects, enhancing customization for compatible devices.
• Accessibility Options: Improvements to the Narrator tool allow users to navigate more efficiently, including shortcuts for skipping links and jumping to lists in documents or web pages.

Resolving Known Bugs​

Beyond new features, KB5046740 addresses various annoying bugs:

• Clipboard Functionality: Resolved issues where clipboard history might show empty even when content was copied.
• Startup Issues: Fixed problems with app windows misaligning when a device returns from sleep.
• File Explorer Adjustments: Users will see improved menu behavior with fewer UI issues, such as the search box no longer being cut off in smaller windows.

A Step Towards Stability​

With each build of Windows 11, users eagerly anticipate increased stability and performance. KB5046740 appears to deliver on this promise by fixing critical issues and enhancing the overall user experience. The gradual rollout ensures that any unforeseen problems can be monitored and addressed promptly as users begin to adopt the changes.

Real-World Implications​

For many users, especially those engaged in productivity tasks or relying on touch capabilities, these enhancements could mean smoother operation and reduced frustration. Businesses running Windows 11 can expect a more stable environment for their applications, leading to less downtime and improved operational efficiency.

Final Thoughts​

In the fast-paced tech landscape, user experience often hinges on how quickly and effectively a company can respond to issues. Microsoft's proactive approach with KB5046740 illustrates their commitment to enhancing Windows 11 and listening to user feedback. As the rollout progresses, users are encouraged to share their experiences on forums and support channels, helping others navigate the new system with ease.
For those ready to embrace these updates, keep an eye on your Windows Update section to ensure you're among the first to enjoy the enhanced features that KB5046740 has to offer. After all, a smoother experience just might be one update away!

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Source: Windows Report With KB5046740, Microsoft solves a huge chunk of Windows 11 bugs

 

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Microsoft has released KB5046740, a feature-rich update for Windows 11 users rocking version 24H2. While this is not a critical security update (it's safe to skip if you're cautious about non-essentials), it's packed with functional features, quality improvements, and fixes that add some serious polish to your Windows experience. Let’s unpack what KB5046740 has in store and why it might be worth your time to hit that "Update Now" button.

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Fresh Features Across Your Windows Ecosystem​

1. Jump Lists That Do More Than Just Sit There
Jump lists on pinned apps in the Start menu have been upgraded. Right-click a pinned app, and voilà, a jump list appears—finally aligning with the productivity demands of power users. Want even more juiced-up functionality? Hold Shift + CTRL before clicking an item, and the selected program opens with administrative privileges. Say goodbye to right-clicking your way to "Run as Administrator."
2. Taskbar Tweaks for Better Control

• The system tray now has a compact option for the date and time format. To toggle this, find it under Settings > Date and Time.
• Speaking of notifications, enabling Do Not Disturb (DND) hides that pesky bell icon—though you can still access notifications by clicking on the clock. Small but clean updates like this make a big difference in reducing visual clutter.

3. Enhanced Touch Controls
Touchscreen enthusiasts, rejoice! A new edge gestures section in Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touch allows you to disable the left or right screen edge gestures. Yes, now your screen won’t betray you with unintended swipes during those high-octane Netflix-binge scenarios.
4. File Explorer Goes Android-Friendly
Microsoft is bridging the PC-mobile divide with improved Phone Link integration. The update allows direct sharing from File Explorer to Android devices. Configure Phone Link, and you’ll be breezing through file transfers without ever needing a third-party app. Superb if you’ve got a Samsung or a supported Android device.
5. Speech and Accessibility Upgrades
Whether you're a Narrator die-hard, leveraging live captions daily, or dabbling in voice-to-text, KB5046740 delivers updates ensuring smoother performance for speech-based features. However, it might ask you to manually update your language packs—check the Microsoft Store if prompted.

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Polished Fixes: Bye-Bye, Bugs​

Beyond the shiny new features, Microsoft has been diligent in squashing bugs and ironing out creases. Here are a few highlights:

• Taskbar Search: Still prefer the auto-hide taskbar? Previously, “autohide” made the search bar shrink awkwardly into an icon. Fixed.
• File Explorer Sizing: Narrower windows no longer lead to unintended truncation of search boxes. Great news if you're multitasking with cramped screen real estate.
• Dynamic Lighting: Not seeing compatible devices? You’ll now get clearer placeholders when there are no devices to control. Subtle but helps improve clarity.

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Discover Advanced Tweaks for Power Users​

1. Task Manager Joins the Dark Side (Literally)
For those cringing every time white screens attack their retinas: KB5046740 embraces dark mode optimization, now extended to Disconnect and Logoff dialogs, along with text scaling improvements. Running diagnostics has never looked this stylish.
2. Windows Search in High-Security Mode
Enterprise admins and tech-savvy users will appreciate the upgrade for Windows Search. It now runs IFilters in Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC). If you’re wondering—think of LPACs as an overprotective version of app sandboxes. They strictly minimize access to sensitive system components, embracing Microsoft’s growing obsession with proactive security architectures.
3. PowerShell Fixes
Running into those frustrating fails with Get-WindowsCapability? This update resolves the issue where a PC restart was the only cure. A smoother experience awaits PowerShell users post-KB5046740.

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Bug Fixes That Nerds Will Appreciate​

Not everything here is shiny for the everyday user, but for digital tinkers and devs, these fixes shine bright:

• Resolved GDI+ scaling errors when resizing images.
• Fixed stubborn image orientation issues in RAW photos—very niche, but vital for photo enthusiasts.
• Exporting charts to PDF or XLSX formats now works as intended without apps freezing.

Meanwhile, multiple monitors users can bid farewell to irritating lag and erratic window movements—massively boosting the appeal of Windows for multi-display workstations.

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Known Issues to Keep Track​

Before you dive into installing, here's a catch for ARM-based device users:

• Roblox Compatibility: Users can’t play Roblox from the Microsoft Store on ARM devices. But fear not, nostalgic gamers—you can still head to Roblox’s website for a workaround download. Until then, this hiccup lingers.

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How to Install KB5046740​

Options for this update? Take your pick:

• Easily snag it through Windows Update.
• Or for the more hands-on crowd, grab the offline installer via the Microsoft Update Catalog.

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Final Thoughts: A Gamechanger or Minor Upgrade?​

Sure, KB5046740 doesn’t secure your system from urgent cyber threats, but it beautifully refines your Windows journey—from smoother multitasking to connecting better with your devices. Whether it’s the enhanced speech features, File Explorer updates, or taskbar quality-of-life tweaks, there’s something in this package for every user, casual to professional.
If you’re someone who adores polishing their Windows setup and exploring cool, practical tweaks weekly, this is one hefty update to welcome. On the flip side, if you’re in no rush and eyeing only critical updates, feel free to skip—and wait until the fixes hit your PC through future cumulative updates.
Let us know your experience once you’ve tried out KB5046740; we’re dying to hear if this update makes using Windows 11 a smoother ride for you!

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Source: Neowin Windows 11 24H2 KB5046740 is out with a ton of new features for jump lists, taskbar, more