As March draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the latest enhancements and features Microsoft has introduced for Windows 11 through its Windows Insider Program. The latter half of the month saw the unveiling of previews for versions 25H2, 26H1, 26H2, and what is anticipated to be version 27H2, building on the improvements initiated earlier in the month.
Pointer Indicator New Feature
Beginning with build 26300.8085, Windows 11 has introduced the Pointer Indicator feature, designed to assist users with low vision in locating and utilizing the mouse pointer more effectively. When activated, this feature overlays a crosshair effect on the mouse pointer, with customizable color options available to suit individual preferences. Users can enable this feature through Settings > Accessibility > Mouse pointer and touch by toggling the “Pointer Indicator” switch. Additionally, the feature can be toggled on or off using the “Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + X” keyboard shortcut.
Feedback Hub App Redesign
Microsoft has rolled out a redesigned version of the Feedback Hub app, aligning its aesthetics with the Windows 11 style while enhancing user experience for submitting feedback. The “Give Feedback” page now features a streamlined template for reporting issues and suggesting new features, including the ability to send positive feedback to the development team. The app also facilitates connections to Bluetooth LE Audio devices, with main system volume controls conveniently located in the Quick Settings flyout.
Furthermore, enhancements to the File Explorer context menu will now display the application icon alongside the “Open” option when right-clicking specific file types, such as “.exe”, “.bat”, or “.cmd.” This improvement is currently available in the Canary Channel, starting with Windows 11 build 28020.1743.
Administrator Protection Rollout
With builds 26300.8142 and 26220.8138, Windows 11 introduces the Administrator Protection feature, which fortifies security by prompting an authorization dialog when an unsigned or untrusted application seeks privilege elevation. Unlike the User Account Control (UAC) mechanism, which relies on user tokens, Administrator Protection generates a temporary, isolated system-managed account for handling elevation requests. This innovative approach enhances security by discarding the account after the task is completed. While disabled by default, administrators can enable it via Microsoft Intune or the Group Policy Editor, while regular users can access it through the Windows Security app.
Touchpad New Setting
For laptop users, Windows 11 now offers the ability to customize the size of the right-click zone on the touchpad. This new setting can be found under Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touchpad, with options ranging from default to small, medium, and large. It is important to note that this feature is only available for touchpads equipped with a pressable surface, and some manufacturers may provide their own customization options, leading to a “Custom” entry in the Touchpad settings.
Task Manager Changes
The latest updates to the Task Manager enhance visibility into the Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Users can now add two new columns—“NPU” and “NPU Engine”—to the Processes, Users, and Details pages, providing deeper insights into NPU workloads. Additionally, columns for “NPU Dedicated Memory” and “NPU Shared Memory” can be added on the Details page, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of resource allocation. Integrated neural engines will also be visible on the Performance page, alongside a new Isolation column to identify apps running in an AppContainer.
Windows Protected Print Mode Support
In a bid to enhance printing security, Microsoft has introduced a new icon within the printer settings to indicate which printers support the Windows Protected Print mode. This addition aims to provide users with clearer information regarding their printing options and security features.
Windows Console Major Changes
In the Canary Channel, Microsoft has released two additional preview builds, 29558 and 28020.1797, with the former introducing significant enhancements. The Windows Console is undergoing a transformation, merging improvements from the open-source Windows Terminal into its framework. This update includes an optional Direct3D rendering path, enhanced Find dialog functionality supporting regular expressions, and the ability to render images via Sixel. Users will also benefit from improved accessibility features and a more consistent input behavior across PowerShell and WSL.
More Resources
For those looking to delve deeper into Windows 11 and 10, a wealth of how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips await. Start exploring to maximize your experience with these operating systems.
Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!