Microsoft has initiated the rollout of a significant update for Windows 11, specifically targeting its version 23H2 testers. The new Release Preview build, identified as KB5046732 (22631.4534), introduces a host of enhancements across various facets of the operating system, including the Start menu, taskbar, and input methods, catering to both touchscreen and mouse users.
Key Updates and Features
Among the noteworthy changes are:
- [Start menu] A fresh feature allows users to access jump lists by right-clicking on pinned apps, enhancing quick navigation.
- [Taskbar] The system tray now displays a condensed date and time format. Users can manage notifications more effectively, with the notification bell icon potentially hidden when “Do not disturb” is activated. Adjustments can be made through Settings to revert to the traditional display.
- [Touchscreen] A new section for touchscreen edge gestures has been introduced, enabling users to customize their experience by turning off left or right edge gestures.
- [Mouse] Users can now disable enhanced mouse pointer precision and modify the scrolling direction through the updated mouse settings.
Enhancements in Task Manager and More
The Task Manager has also received several updates:
- New! The Disconnect and Logoff dialogs now support dark mode and text scaling, improving accessibility.
- New! The Performance section now provides detailed information about each disk type.
- [Input Method Editor (IME)] The IME toolbar will now automatically hide during full-screen mode for users typing in Chinese or Japanese.
- [File Explorer] A new sharing feature allows users to send content directly to an Android device via the context menu, contingent on the installation of Phone Link.
- [IFilters] Windows Search now operates IFilters within Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC), enhancing security by limiting access to essential resources only.
Dynamic Lighting and Accessibility Features
The update also introduces improvements to the Dynamic Lighting Settings page:
- New! A placeholder message will appear when no compatible devices are connected, and the Brightness and Effects controls will be disabled.
- New! The Wave effect now includes additional directional options, while the Gradient effect has been enhanced with a Forward direction option.
- [Narrator] New functionalities in Narrator scan mode allow users to skip past links and jump to lists, streamlining navigation through lengthy documents and web pages.
- [Speech in Windows] Enhancements to the speech-to-text and text-to-speech capabilities have been implemented, with users being prompted to update their language files as needed.
- [Settings] The Tailored Experiences feature has been rebranded to Personalized offers, providing users with more control over data sharing during the out-of-box experience.
Immediate Fixes and Improvements
In addition to the new features, several fixes are now available:
- [Motherboard replacement] Resolved an issue where Windows would not activate following a motherboard replacement.
- [Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA)] Updated profiles for certain mobile operators.
- [Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) printer] Fixed a problem causing Windows to become unresponsive when using an IPP USB printer.
- [Bluetooth LE Audio] Addressed streaming issues with certain devices, such as hearing aids.
For further details, the official announcement can be found on the Windows Blogs website.
