Microsoft has unveiled the latest iteration of Windows 11 for participants in the Windows Insider Program, specifically those subscribed to the Beta channel. The new build, numbered 22635.4435 and identified under KB5044377, introduces a variety of enhancements, including a new keyboard shortcut for administrative tasks, updates to dynamic lighting support, and a series of bug fixes. Notably, it reinstates the ability to configure the Copilot key, which had been removed in earlier Beta builds.
Changelog Highlights
Here’s a closer look at the changes and improvements being gradually rolled out:
General Enhancements
- Users can now hold Shift and CTRL while clicking on a jump list item in the Start menu or taskbar to launch it as an administrator. This mirrors the functionality of clicking the app icon with the same key combination. For instance, right-clicking on Windows Terminal and then holding Shift and CTRL while clicking on PowerShell will open it with administrative privileges.
Dynamic Lighting Updates
- The Dynamic Lighting settings page will now display a placeholder message when no compatible devices are connected, with Brightness and Effects controls disabled.
- New directional options have been added to the Wave effect, including Forward, Backward, Outward, and Inward, along with a Forward option for the Gradient effect.
Bug Fixes
- Taskbar: Resolved an issue where the WIN + key combination was unresponsive in certain scenarios, and fixed a problem preventing the X button from closing app windows for some users.
- Input: Addressed an underlying issue that could cause the mouse to disengage from a game window on multi-monitor systems after using the Game Bar.
Settings Improvements
- After previously disabling the configuration of the Copilot key in Build 22635.4291, this functionality has been restored with refinements. The apps that can be launched via the Copilot key are now limited to those that have opted into this experience, ensuring they meet security and privacy standards. Detailed guidance on how apps can opt-in will be available on the Microsoft Learn page shortly. Users can find this setting under Settings > Personalization > Text input.
Additional Fixes
- Bluetooth: Resolved a memory leak issue causing app unresponsiveness.
- Product Activation: Updated phone numbers for various regions.
- Collector Sets: Fixed issues with collector sets not closing properly during exceptions.
- Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist: Expanded the list of drivers vulnerable to BYOVD attacks.
- Windows Hello for Business: Fixed PIN reset functionality when using the “I forgot my PIN” link.
- Multi-Function Printer: Resolved printing issues when connected via USB.
- Microsoft Teams: Fixed an issue preventing users from joining meetings through Outlook reminders.
- Country and Operator Settings Asset: Updated profiles for certain mobile operators.
- vmswitch: Fixed a stop error triggered by Load Balancing and Failover teaming with virtual switches.
- WebView2 Apps: Resolved input detection issues with Xbox 360 and Bluetooth controllers.
For those interested in a deeper dive, the full blog post detailing these updates can be accessed through Microsoft’s official channels.
