Microsoft has released new updates for Windows 11's Beta and Dev channels, introducing several enhancements while opting to temporarily disable the Emoji 16.0 feature. Amidst these changes, Windows Insiders will find a handy new built-in network speed test feature directly accessible from the taskbar. This utility can be launched through the Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings, or by right-clicking the network icon. It seamlessly opens in the default browser and extends its support to Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular connections, streamlining the process of assessing network performance.
Improvements and New Features
Another significant addition in the update is the enhancement to the Get Started experience. A new Microsoft 365 Copilot page is now available for managed devices with active subscriptions, aiming to refine user interaction and provide more intuitive guidance. The update also revises the text placeholder for Windows Search on Copilot+ PCs, ensuring users have accurate and helpful prompts as they navigate through their search experience.
File Explorer benefits from new StorageProvider APIs in its Home section, facilitating better file management and integration for users who rely heavily on storage solutions. Additionally, a 'Wait time before acting' setting for Voice Access has been introduced, offering users greater control and customization over voice command functionalities.
Bug Fixes and Known Issues
This release addresses a range of known issues, including screen reader functionality improvements, resolution of unexpected Click to Do invocations, and synchronization problems with the battery icon. Enhancements to File Explorer's view persistence, lock screen media control visibility, and the reliability of the Update and shutdown process have also been included.
For the Beta channel, the update remedies issues such as access to SMB v1 shared files, GPU capture playback via PIX, and protected video playback. However, some known issues persist. Users may encounter Click to Do gesture visuals on the wrong display, taskbar preview animation disability, and unexpected text displayed in search. Windows Studio Effects might cause camera preview failures on certain webcams, and an Xbox Controller Bluetooth bugcheck has a driver-uninstall workaround but remains unresolved.
While the exclusion of Emoji 16.0 may come as a minor setback for some users, Microsoft assures that this feature will make a return in a future release. As the tech giant continues to optimize Windows 11, the focus remains on enhancing user experience and interface with these latest inclusions and fixes.
