Microsoft has unveiled the latest build for Windows 11 Beta channel Insiders, designated as build 22635.4870 under KB5050087. This update enhances the Lock screen widget experience, refines File Explorer, addresses a couple of USB-related issues, and introduces several other improvements.
New Features and Improvements
This build is part of the 23H2 version, following closely on the heels of a previous release for the Beta channel under version 24H2, identified as Build 26120.3073 (KB5050090). The rollout of new features is being executed gradually, with a toggle option available for users.
Lock Screen Widgets
One of the standout features is the introduction of customizable lock screen widgets, previously referred to as “Weather and more.” This functionality is currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the European Economic Area (EEA), allowing users to add, remove, and rearrange various widgets such as Weather, Watchlist, Sports, and Traffic. To personalize these widgets, users can navigate to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. The rollout will expand to other regions in the future, while Insiders outside the EEA will continue to experience the existing “Weather and more” setup.
Additionally, a new group policy named “Disable Widgets On Lock Screen” has been introduced, enabling IT administrators to disable lock screen widgets without affecting other widgets on managed PCs. This policy is currently available only in EEA regions but is expected to extend to additional areas soon.
File Explorer Enhancements
- For Insiders using a work or school account (Entra ID), File Explorer will now display people icons in the “Activity” column on the File Explorer Home page and under “Recommended.” Hovering over these icons reveals the Live Persona Card for each individual from Microsoft 365.
Fixes and Known Issues
Start Menu Fixes
- Resolved an issue that caused the Start menu to crash for some users when interacting with app list letters.
- Corrected color discrepancies in the account manager flyout when utilizing a mixed dark and light custom mode in Settings > Personalization > Colors.
File Explorer Fixes
- Addressed a rendering issue when restoring minimized File Explorer windows.
- Improved overall reliability for File Explorer.
- Fixed a crash issue related to explorer.exe when dragging files into File Explorer.
USB Device Fixes
- Resolved an issue where devices did not recognize that a USB camera was on, particularly after the January 2025 security update.
- Fixed the code 10 error message that appeared when connecting certain external audio management devices.
Known Issues
- File Explorer may exhibit slow closing times for some users when using the X button, which could also affect other title bar buttons.
- The Home page of Settings may crash, though users can still access specific settings by searching for them directly from the taskbar.
- There is a known issue where enterprise-specific device info and accessibility preferences cards are appearing on non-managed PCs signed in with Microsoft accounts.
For further details, the official blog post is available on Microsoft’s website.
