Microsoft has recently released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4445 (KB5046745) to the Beta Channel, introducing several enhancements aimed at improving user experience, particularly within File Explorer and the Taskbar. (blogs.windows.com)

File Explorer Enhancements

A notable addition in this build is the inclusion of a "New Folder" option in the context menu when right-clicking locations in the navigation pane. This feature streamlines the process of creating new folders, enhancing workflow efficiency. (blogs.windows.com)

Additionally, Microsoft has addressed several issues to improve File Explorer's performance and reliability:

  • Date/Time Properties Issue: Fixed an issue where the date and time properties of files were unexpectedly updated in some cases after copying them. (blogs.windows.com)
  • Details Pane Icons: Resolved a problem where icons in the Details Pane did not respond correctly to theme changes, making it difficult to discern between dark and light modes. (blogs.windows.com)
  • Tab Duplication Glitch: Eliminated a black flash that appeared when duplicating a tab in File Explorer. (blogs.windows.com)
  • Search Functionality: Addressed an issue where initiating a search could unexpectedly trigger repeated searches. (blogs.windows.com)

Taskbar Improvements

The update also brings stability enhancements to the Taskbar:

  • Explorer.exe Reliability: Fixed several issues impacting explorer.exe reliability related to the Taskbar, including a specific problem that caused explorer.exe to crash when right-clicking apps on the Taskbar. (blogs.windows.com)
  • Secondary Monitor Display: Resolved an issue on secondary monitors for left-aligned Taskbar users, where the Widgets text might overlap the date and time. (blogs.windows.com)

Additional Fixes

Beyond File Explorer and the Taskbar, the update addresses other system components:

  • Snipping Tool: Fixed an underlying issue that could result in distorted screenshots on certain displays. (blogs.windows.com)

Availability and Rollout

Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 23H2 via an enablement package (Build 22635.xxxx). Many features in the Beta Channel are rolled out using Control Feature Rollout technology, starting with a subset of Insiders and ramping up over time as Microsoft monitors feedback. To receive features as they become available, users can enable the "Get the latest updates as they’re available" toggle in Settings > Windows Update. (blogs.windows.com)

This release underscores Microsoft's commitment to refining the Windows 11 experience by addressing user feedback and enhancing system stability.