Windows 11 Insider Build 27695: LAPS Enhancements & Widget Updates

Microsoft has recently rolled out a new build of Windows 11 for members of its Insider Program participating in the Canary Channel. The build number, 27695, brings a host of improvements, particularly to the Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS), along with other feature enhancements, bug fixes, and some known issues. This update marks the first Canary Channel release since August 15 and sets a new expiration date for these builds of September 15, 2025 .

What’s New in Build 27695​

1. Enhanced Windows LAPS​

Perhaps the most significant enhancement in this build is the improvement to the Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS). This feature now allows administrators to recover encrypted passwords from Active Directory backups even when there are no domain controllers functioning. This enhancement is crucial in disaster recovery scenarios, providing improved security over traditional password storage methods. LAPS encrypts passwords using the Cryptography API: Next Generation Data Protection API (CNG DPAPI) . Using the Get-LapsADPassword PowerShell cmdlet, users can now retrieve and decrypt LAPS passwords directly from Active Directory backups that are accessible, even on machines that are not domain-joined. This offers significant advantages during recovery situations in which domain services may be down, allowing password retrieval under various conditions .

2. Widgets Entry-Point Changes​

Another notable feature in Build 27695 is the re-positioning of the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars. The new position, located to the left of the system tray, is wider and promises to show more diverse content. When users launch the Widgets board, it will now expand from the right side of the screen rather than the left .

3. Enhanced Notification Management​

The update introduces an option to manage notifications more effectively. Users can now disable suggestions for disabling notifications from certain applications, which enhances user control over the notification experience. This feature can be accessed through the Settings > System > Notifications .

4. New Sharing Options​

Microsoft has also updated the Windows Share functionality to allow easier content sharing to Android devices. This feature requires pairing with Android devices through the Link to Windows app and Phone Link on the PC .

5. Improvements to the Widgets Board​

The Widgets Board has been updated to enhance both the security and the APIs used for interacting with widgets and feeds, particularly for users in EEA regions. Some existing widgets may be temporarily removed or modified during this transition, but it lays the groundwork for upcoming features .

Changes and Improvements​

General Updates​

• Expiration Dates: The expiration date for builds released to the Canary Channel has been adjusted to September 15, 2025, starting from Build 27691.
• Installation Time Estimates: Some users may notice an estimated offline time for their PCs while installing updates displayed in the Windows Update settings .

Bug Fixes​

Several bug fixes have been implemented to improve the overall experience:

• File Explorer: Issues regarding incorrect pane focus and searches in dark mode have been addressed, enhancing accessibility for users with screen readers .
• Task Manager: Color issues in dark mode have been corrected, improving visual consistency across UI elements .
• Windows Sandbox: Previously, users faced errors when trying to launch the Windows Sandbox; this has now been resolved .

Known Issues​

While Build 27695 includes numerous improvements, several known issues persist:

• Copilot+ PCs: Users transitioning to the Canary Channel on new Copilot+ PCs from other channels may lose their Windows Hello PIN and biometric sign-in options. Microsoft is working on rectifying this issue .
• Emoji Panel: An ongoing issue causes the emoji panel to unexpectedly close when accessing certain sections or during selection, which Microsoft is also addressing .

Historical Context and Implications for Users​

Windows LAPS, introduced in 2020, filled an important gap in IT security by addressing administrator account password management weaknesses. With many organizations moving towards a more decentralized or hybrid infrastructure, the need for secure, easily retrievable administrative passwords has never been more critical. The enhancements in Build 27695 not only bolster the security of these passwords but also ensure continuity of access during emergencies . Moreover, the positioning changes in the Widgets board reflect Microsoft’s continued commitment to enhancing user interfaces to create more organized and visually appealing experiences. Managing app notifications more effectively aligns with user expectations for customization in operating systems, emphasizing user control over system alerts and information .

Conclusion​

The release of Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel Build 27695 introduces significant enhancements, particularly around security with Windows LAPS and improvements to user interface features like the Widgets component and notification management. While the build rectifies several issues from previous iterations, it also highlights ongoing challenges, particularly in seamless transitions for users upgrading their environments. As the Windows Insider Program evolves, Community users can expect ongoing developments and improvements, and they are encouraged to engage actively via the Feedback Hub to influence future builds. The implications of these updates stress the importance of adaptive IT security measures and a responsive user experience in modern operating systems .

Note​

For a full overview of the changelogs and specific instructions on executing the new functionalities, refer to Microsoft’s official channels or the Windows Insider Blog . Source: Neowin Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel build 27695 adds a Wi-Fi password setting change [Update]