Introduction

Microsoft has recently released Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 22621.1020 and 22623.1020 (KB5020035) to the Beta Channel, introducing a range of new features, enhancements, and fixes aimed at improving user experience and system performance.

Key Features and Enhancements

Support for New Braille Displays in Narrator

A significant addition in Build 22623.1020 is the expanded support for new Braille displays and input/output languages in Narrator. This update includes compatibility with devices such as the APH Chameleon, APH Mantis Q40, and the NLS eReader, among others. Users are advised to uninstall existing Braille support before installing the new features to ensure seamless integration. Detailed instructions are available in the official announcement.

Integration of Windows Spotlight with Themes

Both builds have combined Windows Spotlight with Themes on the Personalization page, simplifying the process for users to discover and enable the Windows Spotlight feature, which provides daily background images and information.

OneDrive Storage Alerts and Management

Enhancements to OneDrive integration include:

  • Storage Capacity Display: The total storage capacity of all Microsoft OneDrive subscriptions is now displayed on the Accounts page in the Settings app.
  • Storage Alerts: Users receive alerts on the Systems page in Settings when approaching their storage limit, with options to manage or purchase additional storage as needed.

Organizational Messages Feature

A new mobile device management (MDM) policy for organizational messages has been introduced, allowing companies to enroll tenant devices to receive custom messages. This feature enables organizations to communicate directly with employees through Windows.

Fixes and Improvements

General

  • Spelling Dictionary Synchronization: The spelling dictionary now uses a language-neutral word list that syncs across devices using the same Windows account, enhancing consistency in language preferences.

Taskbar & System Tray

  • Explorer.exe Crash Fix: Addressed a high-impact explorer.exe crash related to the system tray, which also caused repeated crashes when entering safe mode.
  • Third-Party App Icons: Resolved issues where certain third-party app icons in the system tray were unresponsive.
  • Windows Update Icon: Fixed pixelation issues with the Windows Update icon when switching between light and dark modes.

Windowing

  • Task View Alignment: Corrected the positioning of the Desktops list in Task View for setups with vertically stacked monitors.

Task Manager

  • Navigation Pane Button: Moved the open navigation pane button under the title bar when Task Manager is wide enough, improving drag functionality.
  • Search Box Functionality: Ensured the Delete key functions correctly in the search box.

Known Issues

  • Audio Issues: Investigating reports of audio not working for some Insiders in recent Beta Channel builds.
  • Taskbar & System Tray: Noted issues with taskbar flashing and delayed transitions between desktop and tablet postures.
  • Task Manager: Identified problems with filtering by publisher name, service visibility after filtering, and theme rendering in dialogs.

Implications and Impact

These updates reflect Microsoft's commitment to enhancing accessibility, user experience, and system stability. The support for new Braille displays underscores the focus on inclusivity, while the integration of Windows Spotlight with Themes and improved OneDrive management cater to user convenience. The organizational messages feature provides enterprises with a direct communication channel to their employees, enhancing internal communications.

Conclusion

Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 22621.1020 and 22623.1020 bring a host of new features and fixes that aim to improve the overall user experience. Insiders are encouraged to explore these updates and provide feedback to assist Microsoft in refining the operating system further.

For more detailed information, refer to the official Windows Insider Blog post.