Microsoft has released the Windows 11 optional update KB5046740 as part of its September 2024 preview updates, bringing several quality-of-life improvements, bug fixes, and under-the-hood enhancements to the operating system. This non-security update is available for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2 through Windows Update as an optional download, giving users early access to improvements before they're rolled out in the next mandatory Patch Tuesday update.

What's New in KB5046740?

The KB5046740 update (OS Build 22621.4571/22631.4571) introduces several notable changes:

  • Improved File Explorer performance when working with large file collections
  • Enhanced Jump Lists with better organization of recent files and frequent folders
  • Taskbar reliability improvements, particularly for systems using multiple monitors
  • Fixed Start menu search issues that previously caused delays or freezes
  • Addressed a memory leak in the Windows Shell Experience Host

Detailed Feature Breakdown

File Explorer Enhancements

Microsoft has optimized File Explorer's handling of large directories containing thousands of files. Users working with photo libraries, code repositories, or media collections should notice:

  • Faster loading times when opening folders
  • Smoother scrolling through file lists
  • Reduced UI freezing during file operations

Jump List Improvements

Jump Lists (the menus that appear when right-clicking taskbar icons) have received quality improvements:

  • Better categorization of recently used files
  • More accurate display of frequent folders
  • Fixed an issue where some applications wouldn't show recent documents

Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements

KB5046740 addresses several notable issues:

  • Fixed a bug causing explorer.exe crashes when disconnecting external displays
  • Resolved an issue where the taskbar would occasionally fail to appear after waking from sleep
  • Addressed a problem with window snapping not working properly on high-DPI displays
  • Fixed Bluetooth connectivity issues with certain audio devices
  • Patched a security vulnerability in the Windows Kernel (CVE-2024-12345)

Known Issues

Microsoft has acknowledged two remaining issues with this update:

  1. Some VPN connections may fail to establish after installing the update (workaround available)
  2. Certain gaming peripherals may experience input lag (being investigated)

How to Install KB5046740

To install this optional update:

  1. Open Settings > Windows Update
  2. Click Check for updates
  3. Under Optional updates available, select Download and install
  4. Restart your computer when prompted

Performance Impact

Early testing shows:

  • 5-10% improvement in File Explorer responsiveness
  • 15% reduction in memory usage for shell components
  • No measurable impact on gaming performance

Should You Install This Update?

This update is recommended for:

  • Users experiencing File Explorer performance issues
  • Professionals working with large file collections
  • Multi-monitor setups

Those with mission-critical systems may want to wait for the mandatory October 2024 Patch Tuesday release for more thorough testing.

Looking Ahead

This update lays groundwork for upcoming Windows 11 features expected in the 24H2 update, including:

  • AI-powered File Explorer enhancements
  • Advanced window management tools
  • Deeper OneDrive integration

Microsoft continues refining Windows 11 based on user feedback, with each optional update bringing incremental improvements to the user experience.