Microsoft concluded the previous week with a series of updates for Windows 11 Insider Builds, catering to users across various channels. Those subscribed to the Canary Channel can now upgrade to Build 27802, while Beta Channel participants will receive either Build 22635.5015 or Build 26120.3360, contingent upon their selection of updates aligned with Windows 11 version 24H2.
Among the notable enhancements is the introduction of customizable lock screen widgets, previously known as “Weather and more,” which are now available to Windows Insiders in the European Economic Area (EEA). Users can add, remove, and rearrange widgets such as Weather, Watchlist, Sports, and Traffic, with any widget that supports a small sizing option eligible for inclusion. To personalize these lock screen widgets, users can navigate to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. This rollout begins with EEA Insiders, with plans to extend to other regions in the future. Insiders outside the EEA will continue to experience the existing “Weather and more” functionality.
Additionally, Microsoft is introducing a new group policy titled “Disable Widgets On Lock Screen,” which empowers IT administrators to disable lock screen widgets while maintaining their functionality elsewhere on managed PCs. To modify this policy, users should access the Local Group Policy Editor app and navigate to Computer Configurations > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Widgets. Currently, this policy is exclusive to EEA regions, with future expansions anticipated.
Windows 11 Build 26120.3360: Changes and Improvements
- The rollout includes a significant update to Task Manager, which will now calculate CPU utilization using standard metrics across the Processes, Performance, and Users pages. This change aims to ensure consistency with industry standards and third-party tools. For those who prefer the previous method, a new optional column labeled CPU Utility will be available on the Details tab, displaying the former CPU value used on the Processes page.
Windows Share
- Another enhancement allows users to share files directly to apps that support sharing within Windows. This feature can be accessed by right-clicking on local files in File Explorer or on the desktop, streamlining the sharing process.
Windows 11 Build 22635.5015: Changes and Improvements
- A new experience is being tested to enhance the discoverability of the emoji and more panel in Windows 11. This includes the addition of a system tray icon on the taskbar, allowing users to express themselves through emojis, GIFs, and Kaomoji across all applications. The WIN + . keyboard shortcut is also highlighted within the emoji and more panel. Users can customize the appearance of this new system tray icon by right-clicking on it to access the taskbar settings page.
