Hello Windows Insiders, a new chapter in the evolution of Windows 11 is unfolding with the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (KB5052078) to the Beta Channel. This update is exclusively available to those Insiders who have opted not to upgrade to the updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2. For those eager to explore the latest features, improvements, and fixes, these updates are categorized into two distinct buckets: one for those who have enabled the toggle for immediate updates (accessible via Settings > Windows Update) and another for the broader Beta Channel audience. 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*
Making sharing files in Windows easier
The process of sharing files in Windows has been streamlined with the introduction of a new drag tray feature. As you drag a local file from File Explorer or your desktop, a convenient tray will appear at the top of your screen. This allows you to effortlessly drop the file into one of the displayed applications or select “More…” to access the Windows share window.
FEEDBACK: We encourage you to share your thoughts in the Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Files, Folders, and Online Storage > File sharing.
Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[Start menu]
- The Start menu is evolving with the introduction of two new views on the “All” page: grid and category view. The grid and list view organizes your apps alphabetically, while the category view groups them by usage. This feature is being gradually rolled out, so it may take some time before it appears for everyone. Plans are in place to extend this rollout to Windows Insiders receiving updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2 in both the Dev and Beta Channels shortly.
Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[File Explorer]
- This update enhances File Explorer accessibility by improving text scaling support (via Settings > Accessibility > Text size) across File Open/Save dialogs and Wizard dialogs.
- Resolved an issue where File Explorer Home might fail to load correctly, displaying random floating text that simply read “Name.”
[Taskbar]
- Addressed a problem with taskbar app window previews, ensuring the corners of the flyout are now rendered with the correct radius in all instances.
[Settings]
- Fixed an issue affecting Japanese users, where the name displayed at the top of Settings > Accounts was incorrectly formatted as First Name Last Name instead of the expected Last Name First Name.
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:
- [NEW] There may be a delay in app icons appearing in grid and category views after installing a new app.
- [NEW] When right-clicking on an app, the “Start settings” context menu may briefly flash before the app’s context menu appears.
- [NEW] Windows Tools-related apps are now organized into folders rather than being consolidated into a single app.
[File Explorer]
- We are currently addressing an issue that causes File Explorer to close slowly for some Insiders when using the X button, which may also affect other title bar buttons.
[Settings]
- A known issue exists where two new enterprise-specific device info and accessibility preferences cards are appearing on non-managed PCs signed in with Microsoft accounts.
Reminders for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel
- Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 23H2 through an enablement package (Build 22635.xxxx).
- Feature rollouts in the Beta Channel utilize Control Feature Rollout technology, beginning with a select group of Insiders and gradually expanding as feedback is monitored.
- For those in the Beta Channel wishing to be at the forefront of new features gradually rolled out to you, enable the toggle for the latest updates via Settings > Windows Update*. Over time, we will increase the rollout of features for all with the toggle activated. If you choose to keep this toggle off, new features will be rolled out to your PC over time as they become ready.
- It’s important to note that features and experiences included in these builds may not be released, as we continuously test different concepts and gather feedback. Features may evolve, be removed, or replaced without ever being released beyond Windows Insiders. Some of these features could eventually appear in future Windows releases when they’re ready.
- Localization for features in active development may not be fully completed, and adjustments will occur as features are finalized. Please report any localization issues you encounter through the Feedback Hub.
- Due to the parallel development paths of the Dev and Beta Channels, some features may debut in the Beta Channel first.
- For a comprehensive overview of which build is in which Insider channel, visit Flight Hub.
Thanks,
Amanda & Brandon
