Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27842 to the Canary Channel, introducing several notable enhancements and changes.

Key Features and Improvements

Redesigned Green Screen of Death (GSOD)

In this build, Microsoft has overhauled the traditional Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), transitioning to a Green Screen of Death (GSOD). This redesign aligns with Windows 11's aesthetic, providing a more streamlined and modern interface during system errors. The GSOD now features a simplified UI that retains essential technical information, aiming to get users back to productivity swiftly. (blogs.windows.com)

Enhanced Battery Iconography

The battery icon in the system tray has been updated to offer clearer visual cues:

  • Green Icon: Indicates the device is charging and in good condition.
  • Yellow Icon: Signifies the device is running on battery power with energy-saving mode activated (when battery level is at or below 20%).
  • Red Icon: Warns of a critically low battery, prompting immediate charging.

Additionally, users can now display the battery percentage directly next to the icon by enabling the "Battery Percentage" setting under Settings > Power & battery. (blogs.windows.com)

Windows Security App Enhancements

The Windows Security app has been updated to provide more detailed information about Microsoft Pluton TPM chips. Users can now view the manufacturer and version details under Device security > Security processor details, enhancing transparency and security awareness. (blogs.windows.com)

Removal of Shader Debugging Feature

Support for the Visual Studio Graphics Analyzer's shader debugging feature has been removed in this build. Users are advised to transition to alternative graphics debuggers such as PIX for D3D12 or RenderDoc. (blogs.windows.com)

Removal of "bypassnro.cmd" Script

To enhance security and user experience, the "bypassnro.cmd" script has been removed. This change ensures that all users complete setup with internet connectivity and a Microsoft Account, aligning with Microsoft's security protocols. (blogs.windows.com)

Bug Fixes and Known Issues

Bug Fixes

  • General: Resolved issues with the Windows Update toggle not rendering correctly and automatically turning off.
  • Taskbar: Improved explorer.exe reliability and corrected focus direction for Hebrew and Arabic display languages when using "Windows key + T" and arrow keys.
  • Administrator Protection: Fixed high processor usage by lsass.exe after enabling Administrator Protection.
  • Input: Addressed a high-impact ctfmon.exe crash affecting typing and a DWM crash occurring during inking.
  • Login and Lock: Updated the web sign-in icon for better visual consistency.
  • Windows Security: Fixed incorrect display of the Smart App Control icon.
  • Display and Graphics: Resolved issues with external Thunderbolt graphics cards not being discoverable and some JPG images not displaying.
  • Other: Fixed issues with the IP Helper Service failing to start, midisrv.exe crashes, and the Run dialog not showing autocomplete for file paths. (blogs.windows.com)

Known Issues

  • General: Users joining the Canary Channel on new Copilot+ PCs may experience issues with Windows Hello PIN and biometric sign-ins. Recreating the PIN is recommended.
  • Gaming: Some popular games, like Roblox, may cause a bugcheck (green screen). Microsoft is working on a fix for the next Canary Channel flight.
  • Printing: Printing from some apps may cause a bugcheck (green screen).
  • Power and Battery: The new battery icon colors may not display correctly when certain options are set in Personalization > Colors.
  • Search: A blank search window may appear for some users when searching from the taskbar due to a background crash.
  • Hyper-V: Reports indicate that Hyper-V and related features like WSL may not function properly in this build. (blogs.windows.com)

Conclusion

Windows 11 Build 27842 introduces several enhancements aimed at improving user experience, security, and system reliability. Users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub to assist Microsoft in refining these features.