Windows 11 Update Released: Build 22631.5261 Now Live in Release Preview

Key Points

• Microsoft released Windows 11 Build 22631.5261 (KB5055629) to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel for version 23H2, introducing new features and fixes.
• Gradual rollout features include updates to Narrator, Phone Link, Widgets, and File Explorer, enhancing accessibility, cross-device functionality, and productivity.
• Normal rollout fixes address issues with Windows Hello sign-in, SMB file sharing, Xbox controllers, and security vulnerabilities.

Windows 11 Build 22631.5261 Released to Insiders

Microsoft announced the release of Windows 11 Build 22631.5261 (KB5055629) to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel for Windows 11, version 23H2. This update brings a mix of new features and improvements, categorized into gradual rollout and normal rollout sections.

Gradual Rollout Features

• [Narrator]: A speech recap feature allows users to track and quickly reference spoken content, including live transcription and copying the last thing Narrator said, accessible via simple keyboard shortcuts.
• [Phone Link]: Direct access to cross-device features from the Start menu enables users to make phone calls, send SMS messages, access photos, and share content between mobile devices and PCs.
• [Widgets]: Web developers can now create interactive widgets for multiple surfaces. Additionally, lock screen widgets (previously "Weather and more") are now available in the European Economic Area (EEA), allowing customization of lock screen content.
• [File Explorer]: Pivot-based curated views on File Explorer Home improve access to Microsoft 365 content, boosting productivity with highly relevant content at users’ fingertips.

Normal Rollout Fixes

• [Sign-In Impact]: Resolved an issue affecting USBxHCI controller and USB-connected devices on Intel Core Ultra 200V Series Processors, which caused Windows Hello sign-in issues with built-in USB cameras unless Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS) was manually disabled.
• [Server Message Block (SMB)]: Fixed an issue causing delays in opening Excel files hosted on SMB file shares with Access Based Enumeration enabled, particularly when linking to multiple network-hosted files.
• [Xbox]: Addressed problems with Xbox Elite Wireless Controllers (specific firmware versions) causing keyboard malfunction and error indicators in Device Manager, as well as driver verifier responsiveness issues during gamepad controller driver certification.
• [Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist]: Updated the list to include drivers vulnerable to Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks, enhancing system security.

Additional Updates and Notes

• The Windows Share feature, allowing last-minute image edits (cropping, rotating, adding filters) during sharing, will be rolled out at a later date.
• File Explorer performance improvements, notable for extracting large numbers of small zipped files, have been implemented.
• Start menu fixes ensure touch gestures work correctly for viewing pinned app lists and display Sign out and More options properly with increased text size.
• Taskbar updates corrected arrow key navigation issues for Arabic and Hebrew display languages when using Windows key + T.

Microsoft’s latest update for Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel focuses on refining user experience, strengthening cross-device integration, and addressing critical functionality and security concerns. As the update rolls out, users can expect incremental access to new features, with some, like the Windows Share enhancements, arriving in subsequent updates. The company continues to emphasize its commitment to refining Windows 11 through Insider feedback, ensuring a more seamless and secure experience for all users.

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