Microsoft has rolled out the optional KB5044384 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, introducing a total of twenty-four enhancements, including a resolution for the persistent issue where the sfc /scannow command erroneously indicated corrupt file errors.
This October 2024 non-security preview update is tailored for power users and IT administrators, allowing them to explore forthcoming changes to the operating system ahead of the anticipated November Patch Tuesday.
To install the KB5044384 update, users can navigate to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for Updates. As this is an optional update, users will need to click on the Download and install link to proceed. Alternatively, the update can be manually downloaded from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
Windows 11 KB5044384 highlights
The KB5044384 preview update elevates Windows 11 24H2 to build 26100.2161 and encompasses a variety of fixes and improvements. Below are some of the key changes featured in this month’s update:
Gradual rollout
It’s important to note that these updates may not be immediately available to all users, as they will be released gradually.
- [Notifications] New! Users can now disable suggestions to turn off notifications from specific apps. Simply select the ellipses (…) in the notification to turn it off, or navigate to Settings > System > Notifications to find “Notification Suggestions” in the senders list.
- [Wi-Fi password dialog] New! The Wi-Fi password dialog has been updated to reflect the Windows 11 visual design. Access it via Settings > Network & internet.
- [Narrator]
- New! A new shortcut has been added for the Narrator: pressing the Narrator key + Ctrl + X will copy the last spoken content to the clipboard, ideal for quickly capturing codes or numbers.
- New! The Narrator will now automatically read the contents of email messages in the new Outlook, mirroring the functionality of the classic version.
- [Gamepad keyboard] New! This update initiates the rollout of a new Gamepad keyboard layout for the on-screen keyboard, allowing users to navigate and type using their Xbox controller, with button accelerators for backspace and spacebar.
- [Start menu] New! The “All apps” section has been renamed to simply “All.”
- [ALT + Tab] Fixed an issue where the screen would go black for a few seconds when switching between certain windows.
- [Scanning apps] Fixed a problem where certain scanners were not detected even when connected.
Normal rollout
- [Web sign-in] Fixed an issue that prevented users from signing in to their accounts from the web due to unresponsive screens.
- [Copilot key settings] New! Users can now configure the Copilot key on their keyboards. On new devices, this key opens the Copilot app, while on devices signed in with a Microsoft Entra ID, it opens the M365 app. Users can customize the key to open a different app or initiate a search by going to Settings > Personalization > Text input.
- [Windows Disk Cleanup app] Fixed issues related to inaccurate free space estimates, enhancing its reliability.
- [sfc /scannow command] Resolved the recurring errors that occurred when executing this command.
Currently, there is one known issue affecting Windows 11 24H2: gamers using Arm devices are unable to download and play Roblox via the Microsoft Store on Windows.
The latest Windows version, Windows 11 24H2, was officially released on October 1, following extensive testing by Windows Insiders and deployment on Copilot+ PCs. While this new version introduces a plethora of features, it also faces some compatibility challenges with certain software and hardware, which may hinder installation on various devices.
According to the Windows Message Center, conflicts have been identified with specific Asus models, Easy anti-cheat drivers, the Voicemeeter app, various wallpaper customization software, fingerprint sensor drivers, and Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers. For devices utilizing these incompatible drivers or software, Microsoft has implemented a compatibility hold, preventing the upgrade to Windows 11 24H2.
