Hello Windows Insiders, today marks the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.5025 (KB5053661) to the Beta Channel. This update is exclusively available for those in the Beta Channel who have not yet transitioned to receiving updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2. The changes introduced in Beta Channel builds are categorized into two distinct areas: new features, improvements, and fixes that are gradually rolled out for Insiders who have opted in to receive the latest updates (accessible via Settings > Windows Update), and those that are available to all users within the Beta Channel. For further details, please refer to the Reminders section at the end of this post.
New features gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
Recommended files in File Explorer
The File Explorer Home now showcases recommended files for all Windows Insiders logged in with their personal Microsoft or local accounts. This feature offers quick access to pertinent files, displayed in a carousel format with thumbnail previews. The recommendations include frequently used files, recently downloaded items, and those added to your File Explorer Gallery. For users with a work or school account (Entra ID), additional recommendations will be available with this update. Please note that this feature is not yet available in the European Economic Area (EEA). Quick access folders remain accessible in the navigation pane for easy navigation to pinned folders.
FEEDBACK: Please submit your feedback in the Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Files Folders and Online Storage > File Explorer.
Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[Start menu]
- A new feature is being tested, which recommends a snap group in the Recommended section of the Start menu, based on two apps that are most likely to be used together. We welcome your thoughts on this addition!
[Search on the Taskbar]
- Enhanced support for web search providers in Windows Search for the EEA has been implemented, improving discoverability.
Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[File Explorer]
- An issue causing File Explorer to close slowly for some users when using the X button has been resolved. This fix may also positively impact the responsiveness of other title bar buttons.
Known issues
[Start menu]
Windows Insiders should be aware of the following known issues regarding the new grid and category views on the All page in the Start menu:
- There may be a delay in displaying app icons in grid and category views following the installation of an app.
- When right-clicking on an app, the “Start settings” context menu may briefly flash before the app’s context menu appears.
- Windows Tools related apps are currently organized into folders instead of being consolidated into a single app.
Reminders for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel
- Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel on Windows 11, version 23H2 will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 23H2 through an enablement package (Build 22635.xxxx).
- Many features in the Beta Channel are rolled out using Control Feature Rollout technology, starting with a select group of Insiders and gradually expanding as feedback is monitored.
- For those in the Beta Channel eager to be among the first to receive features gradually rolled out to you, enable the toggle to receive the latest updates via Settings > Windows Update. Over time, we will increase the rollout of features to all users with the toggle activated. If you prefer to keep this toggle off, new features will still be rolled out to your PC over time as they become ready.
- It is important to note that features and experiences included in these builds may not ultimately be released, as we explore various concepts and gather feedback. Features may evolve, be removed, or replaced, and may not be available beyond Windows Insiders. Some of these features could appear in future Windows releases when they’re ready.
- Localization for some actively developed features previewed with Windows Insiders may not be fully completed and will be addressed over time as features are finalized. Please report any localization issues you encounter via Feedback Hub.
- As the Dev and Beta Channels represent parallel development paths, there may be instances where features and experiences debut in the Beta Channel first.
- For a comprehensive overview of which build is in which Insider channel, please refer to Flight Hub.
Thank you,
Amanda & Brandon
