The March optional update for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2 has been released for Insiders on the Release Preview Channel. This update, identified as KB5079387, brings a suite of enhancements aimed at improving user experience across various features, including accessibility, file management, and system settings. Notably, these changes will be rolled out gradually to Insiders, allowing for a phased introduction of the new functionalities.
Main Changes to Note
- Narrator improvements: The reliability of setting up Natural Voices has seen significant enhancements. Users can now access rich image descriptions on all Windows 11 PCs by simply pressing the Narrator key + Ctrl + D for focused images, or Narrator key + Ctrl + S for a full-screen description. Additionally, Copilot+ PC users will benefit from instant on-device descriptions, with the option to select “Ask Copilot” for further details.
- Settings improvements: The update enhances the reliability of downloading necessary updates when prompted in the Settings menu under System > Advanced.
- Smart App Control improvements: This security feature, which aims to block untrusted or potentially harmful applications, can now be toggled on or off without the need for a clean installation. Users can access this option via Settings > Windows Security > App & Browser Control > Smart App Control settings.
- Modern pen setting experience: Users of digital pens can now configure the pen tail button to launch the same application as the Copilot key, enhancing usability.
- Display improvements: Enhancements have been made to the reliability of auto-rotation after a device resumes from sleep. Furthermore, external monitors connected via a USB4 connection can now operate at the lowest power level while the PC is in sleep mode, contributing to battery conservation.
- File Explorer improvements: The update introduces the ability to rename files using Voice Typing (Windows key plus H). Additionally, users can now sort permissions entries in the Advanced Security Settings window for folders within File Explorer by ‘Principal’.
- Windows Recovery Environment improvements: x64 applications are expected to perform more responsively on ARM64 devices while operating within the Windows Recovery Environment.
As is customary, the KB5079387 update will be made available to non-Insiders as an optional update during the last week of March, with a broader public rollout anticipated in April alongside the next Patch Tuesday update.
