Microsoft has released the Windows 11 January 2025 Preview Update KB5050092, introducing significant enhancements across both Build 22621 and Build 22631. This optional non-security update delivers performance optimizations, bug fixes, and quality-of-life improvements ahead of next month's Patch Tuesday.

Key Features in KB5050092

  • Taskbar reliability improvements: Fixed explorer.exe crashes related to drag-and-drop operations
  • Start menu fixes: Addressed an issue causing pinned apps to disappear after reboot
  • File Explorer enhancements: Improved stability when browsing network locations
  • Input method editor (IME) updates: Better compatibility with certain Asian language keyboards
  • DirectX 12 Ultimate optimizations: Reduced memory usage in GPU-intensive applications

Build-Specific Changes

Build 22621 (Release Preview Channel)

This build focuses on stabilization for enterprises and cautious users:

  • Fixed a memory leak in Windows Defender when scanning large archives
  • Resolved an issue causing Bluetooth audio stuttering on certain devices
  • Improved compatibility with legacy accounting software
  • Addressed a bug causing incorrect battery percentage reporting on some laptops

Build 22631 (Beta Channel)

More experimental features appear in this build:

  • New Energy Saver mode with configurable performance thresholds
  • Widgets panel redesign with improved customization options
  • Early implementation of AI-powered search suggestions in File Explorer
  • Experimental tabbed Notepad interface (enable via ViveTool)

Performance Benchmarks

Independent tests show measurable improvements:

Scenario Build 22621 Improvement Build 22631 Improvement
Cold boot time 8% faster 12% faster
Game loading (DirectStorage) 5% improvement 7% improvement
Memory usage (idle) 150MB reduction 200MB reduction

Known Issues

Microsoft acknowledges several remaining problems:

  • Occasional graphical glitches when using multiple monitors with mixed refresh rates
  • Some VPN clients may fail to connect after update
  • Rare cases of audio service crashing during Discord calls

Installation Guide

To install KB5050092:

  1. Open Settings > Windows Update
  2. Click Check for updates
  3. Select Download and install under the optional updates section
  4. Restart when prompted

For enterprise deployments, the update is available through:

  • Windows Server Update Services (WSUS)
  • Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager
  • The Microsoft Update Catalog

Rollback Instructions

If issues occur:

  1. Open Settings > System > Recovery
  2. Select Go back under "Previous version of Windows"
  3. Follow the on-screen prompts (available for 10 days post-installation)

Looking Ahead

This update lays groundwork for several anticipated features:

  • AI Copilot integration in more system components
  • Enhanced snap layouts for ultrawide monitors
  • Passwordless sign-in improvements

Microsoft plans to incorporate feedback from this preview into February's cumulative update.