Microsoft has rolled out two significant Windows 11 Insider Preview updates—KB5046745 for the Beta Channel and KB5046746 for the Dev Channel—bringing a host of new features, improvements, and fixes. These updates showcase Microsoft's continued commitment to refining Windows 11 ahead of its next major release. Here's everything you need to know about these preview builds.

What’s New in KB5046745 (Beta Channel)

The Beta Channel update (Build 22635.3276) introduces several user-facing enhancements:

1. File Explorer Improvements

  • Gallery View Enhancements: Microsoft has refined the Gallery view in File Explorer, making it easier to browse photos and documents with better thumbnail rendering.
  • Faster Search: File Explorer now includes optimized search indexing for quicker results.

2. Taskbar & Start Menu Tweaks

  • Dynamic Refresh Rate Support: The taskbar now better supports systems with variable refresh rate displays.
  • Start Menu Customization: Users can now pin more recommended apps and files for quicker access.

3. Accessibility Upgrades

  • Voice Typing Improvements: Enhanced accuracy and new commands for voice dictation.
  • Magnifier Smoothing: Smoother zoom transitions when using the Magnifier tool.

What’s New in KB5046746 (Dev Channel)

The Dev Channel update (Build 26058) includes more experimental features:

1. New Snap Layouts & Widgets

  • Adaptive Snap Layouts: Windows now suggests better window arrangements based on usage patterns.
  • Widgets Board Redesign: A cleaner, more intuitive widgets panel with improved performance.

2. Advanced Networking Features

  • Wi-Fi 7 Support: Early implementation for compatible hardware.
  • VPN Status Indicator: A new system tray icon shows active VPN connections.

3. Developer-Centric Changes

  • Win32 API Updates: New APIs for app developers to leverage modern Windows features.
  • WSL2 Performance Boosts: Faster file system operations in Windows Subsystem for Linux.

Known Issues & Fixes

Both updates address several bugs:
- Fixed: Explorer.exe crashes when using multiple monitors.
- Fixed: Bluetooth connectivity drops on some devices.
- Known Issue: Some gaming peripherals may experience input lag (under investigation).

How to Get These Updates

  1. Join the Windows Insider Program (Beta or Dev Channel).
  2. Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates.
  3. Download and install the respective KB update.

Final Thoughts

These preview updates demonstrate Microsoft's focus on refining Windows 11's core experience while introducing forward-looking features. Beta Channel users get more polished improvements, while Dev Channel testers can experiment with cutting-edge additions. As always, Insider builds may contain bugs, so they're not recommended for primary devices.

For more details, visit Microsoft's official Windows Insider Blog.