Microsoft continues its journey of refining Windows 11, unveiling a revamped AutoPlay dialog box in the latest Windows Insider build. This enhancement is not merely cosmetic; it represents a significant overhaul utilizing WinUI, which promises improved performance and visual consistency across the operating system. The new design ensures a more responsive experience, particularly in relation to text scaling, making it a welcome upgrade for users.
Modernized AutoPlay experience
- The AutoPlay dialog, which facilitates the selection of preferred actions when devices such as phones, cameras, or removable drives are connected, has been modernized. The updated interface aligns better with the overall aesthetic of Windows 11, supports dark mode, and retains familiar AutoPlay functionalities. Additionally, notifications related to this dialog are now conveniently docked in the notification center for easy access.
Accessibility
A simpler way to open apps maximized
- A new accessibility feature, Open apps maximized, has been introduced. This setting automatically maximizes application windows upon opening, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. This enhancement aims to reduce friction for users, whether they utilize screen readers, work in tablet mode, or prefer a consistent full-screen workspace.
- To activate this feature, navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Visual effects and enable Open apps maximized. Once activated, Windows will take care of maximizing app windows for you.
Manage camera, microphone, and location access for desktop apps
- Windows Insiders can now manage permissions for camera, microphone, and location access on an individual app basis for desktop applications. Previously, these settings were managed through a single device-wide option.
- This update allows users to have clearer visibility and control over which applications request access to sensitive resources, enhancing privacy management across the diverse range of desktop applications.
What’s changing
- Users can now allow or deny access for each desktop app individually.
- To review and manage permissions, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Camera, Microphone, or Location.
- Apps that have not yet accessed a resource will prompt for permission the first time access is requested.
What stays the same
- Existing app permission decisions will remain intact.
- Apps previously granted access will continue to have that access.
- Apps that were denied access will remain denied.
- No action is required from users, and no settings will be reset.
- Enterprise policies will continue to function as intended, with additional management capabilities under consideration.
Notes
- Most desktop apps will display clear app attribution; however, some may appear under different names due to shared system components or browser-hosted experiences.
- Some desktop apps may show as Unsigned if Windows cannot verify publisher information. Users are advised to grant access only to recognized and trusted applications.
File Explorer
- PDF and non-HTML files downloaded from the web can now be previewed automatically in the preview pane, enhancing user experience.
Microsoft Store
- This update introduces support for in-app purchases in packaged WinUI 3 apps requiring elevation, allowing developers to leverage Microsoft’s integrated commerce platform.
Taskbar
- Recent builds have addressed an issue causing taskbar animations to function intermittently, ensuring a smoother user experience.
Input
- Fixes have been implemented for an issue where the mouse cursor was not visible in certain applications, enhancing usability.
Other
- A fix has been applied to a previous issue where Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program > Flags appeared empty despite available flags.
- The Settings > Apps > Installed apps section has been updated to display version numbers for packaged apps, aligning with existing features for other applications.
This latest update also includes enhancements that users have anticipated, such as the option to open apps maximized and improved management of camera, microphone, and location permissions for desktop applications. As Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11, users can expect a more cohesive and user-friendly experience.
