Recent developments from Microsoft have brought exciting updates for Windows 11 users, particularly those in the Insider program. The latest release, Windows 11 Build 27718, has been made available to Insiders in the Canary Channel, introducing a host of enhancements aimed at improving user experience.
What you need to know
- Windows 11 Build 27718 has been rolled out to Insiders in the Canary Channel.
- The update features an enhanced lock screen experience, new taskbar options, and updates to the Narrator tool.
- Insiders in both the Canary and Dev Channels can explore an improved Microsoft Store, now with app categories.
- An update to the Clock app introduces new widgets for added functionality.
With the rollout of Windows 11 Build 27718, Microsoft is inviting its Insiders to explore various new features and improvements. This build can be installed via Windows Update or through an ISO file. Many of the enhancements in this release have been tested in previous Insider builds, including the much-anticipated first letter navigation in the taskbar.
<h2 class="article-bodysection” id=”section-windows-11-build-27718″>Windows 11 Build 27718
General
- [REMINDER] Insider Preview Build Expiration: The expiration date for Insider Preview builds in the Canary Channel has been updated to September 15, 2025, starting with Build 27695. Please ensure you are on the latest build in the Canary Channel.
Lock screen
- The Lock screen has been updated to display media controls at the lower center when media is being played.
- Users can now drag apps from the Pinned section of the menu directly to the taskbar.
- [ADDED] Enhancements to the new account manager on the Start menu now make the sign-out option more visible and include a list of signed-in users for quicker account switching.
Taskbar & System Tray
- The taskbar now supports first letter navigation. When keyboard focus is set to the taskbar (using WIN + T), pressing a letter will jump to the corresponding open or pinned app. Repeatedly pressing the letter will cycle through multiple apps that share the same starting letter. For users with an uncombined taskbar, navigation will utilize window names instead of app names. Additionally, pressing Home and End will move focus to the first and last items in the taskbar, respectively.
Notifications
- Users can now opt to disable suggestions for turning off notifications from specific apps. Notifications can be managed directly through the notification itself or via the Settings menu under System > Notifications, where the option will appear after receiving a notification.
Windows Share
- Minor UI changes have been implemented in the Windows share window, simplifying the interface by removing the search box.
Narrator
- Performance improvements have been made to the Narrator scan mode, enhancing response times, particularly when using Microsoft Edge and navigating large documents. Users can activate scan mode by first enabling Narrator (Win key + Ctrl + Enter) and then toggling scan mode with Caps Lock + Spacebar.
Energy Saver
- For laptops operating on battery, a notification will prompt users to plug in their device when the battery level drops to 20% while Energy Saver is set to “Always On.”
Windows Update
- Design improvements have been made to the dialog that appears when user attention is required before proceeding with a Windows update, such as when additional space is needed or a compatibility issue arises. This includes updates to icon sizes and spacing for better clarity.
Input
- The Settings menu has been updated to include a new section under Bluetooth & Devices > Touch for managing touch screen edge gestures, allowing users to disable left or right screen edge gestures as desired. This feature is being rolled out gradually, so not all Insiders in the Canary Channel may see it immediately.
Administrator protection
- Upcoming security features in Windows 11 aim to safeguard admin rights for users, enabling them to perform administrative tasks with just-in-time privileges. This feature will be off by default and can be enabled through group policy. Further details are expected to be shared at Microsoft Ignite.
<section class="newsletter-formtop-bar”>
<section class="newsletter-formmain-section” readability=”29″>All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.