Microsoft has unveiled the latest build for Windows 11 Dev channel Insiders, designated as Build 26120.1843 under KB5043185. This update introduces a variety of enhancements and features designed to improve user experience, including revamped media controls on the lock screen, access to shared content in File Explorer Home, and improvements to the Account Manager for easier account switching.
New Features and Improvements
Among the notable additions is the Shared Content in File Explorer Home, which allows users signed in with their Microsoft accounts to quickly access files shared with them, such as those from email or Teams chats. Commercial customers using Microsoft Entra ID accounts will also benefit from viewing files shared by others. This feature can be accessed via the ‘Shared’ tab in File Explorer Home, where users can also see a wider array of file types in their Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections.
The Windows Sandbox Client Preview is another highlight of this build, now updated through the Microsoft Store. This preview introduces runtime clipboard redirection, audio/video input control, and the capability to share folders with the host during runtime. Users can explore these features via the new icon in the app’s upper right corner, along with an early version of command line support.
Changes and Enhancements
In terms of general updates, new PCs or user accounts on managed commercial devices will now see the Microsoft 365 app pinned to the taskbar for quick access to Copilot. Existing commercial PCs will have the previous Copilot experience replaced with this new app.
- Lock Screen: Media controls have been repositioned to the lower center of the Lock screen for better visibility when media is playing.
- Start Menu: Right-clicking on pinned apps will now reveal jump lists for supported applications, enhancing accessibility to frequently used features.
- Updates to the Account Manager on the Start menu now make the sign-out option more visible and provide a list of signed-in users for quicker account switching.
The taskbar and system tray have also seen simplifications, with a focus on highlighting the date and time in a more concise format, while notifications can still be accessed through the date and time display. Users can toggle between simplified and detailed views in the settings.
Fixes and Known Issues
This build addresses several issues, particularly within File Explorer, where problems with screen readers and keyboard focus have been resolved. Additionally, the Task Manager has received fixes to ensure proper background display settings.
- General Fixes: The Recall feature is no longer visible in the Control Panel, and issues causing high CPU usage by the Windows Modules Installer have been addressed.
- Input Improvements: Adjustments have been made to ensure text suggestions for hardware keyboards function correctly.
However, users should be aware of some known issues, including potential installation errors and problems with the Start menu’s All apps list. Microsoft advises patience and suggests workarounds for these challenges.
Snipping Tool Update
In a related update, the Snipping Tool has introduced a feature allowing users to change the default folder for saving screenshots and screen recordings. This can be easily adjusted in the app settings, offering greater flexibility for users.
For further details, users can refer to the official blog post on Microsoft’s website.
