KB5053658: Microsoft aims to eliminate Windows 11 BYPASSNRO internet bypass for MSA access

Microsoft Unveils New Features in Windows 11 24H2 Beta Channel

Microsoft has recently launched a new build for Windows 11 24H2 in the Beta channel, specifically targeting Windows Insiders. The build number 26120.3653, officially identified as KB5053658, brings a variety of enhancements, including an experimental green screen for unexpected restarts and a quick machine recovery feature. Additionally, the previously available BYPASSNRO script, designed to bypass certain Windows 11 connectivity requirements, will be removed to streamline user experience.

Highlights of the Latest Build

Gradual Rollout of New Features in the Beta Channel

Quick Machine Recovery Feature

As part of the Windows Resiliency Initiative showcased at Ignite 2024, the new Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) is now available in the Insider Preview. This innovative feature aims to minimize downtime by automatically diagnosing and rectifying boot issues through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).In the event of a critical boot failure, the device will connect to the internet, send diagnostic data to Microsoft, and receive tailored remediations via Windows Update. IT administrators are encouraged to enable and customize this feature, which will be automatically activated for home users. Expect a test remediation package to be released shortly, enabling a firsthand experience of QMR.

Speech Recap for Enhanced Narration

The Narrator feature gets a significant upgrade with the introduction of the speech recap. This addition facilitates better tracking of spoken content, allowing users to retrieve what Narrator has previously articulated. Users can access the speech recap window via the Narrator key + Alt + X, which stores the last 500 spoken strings. Each time Narrator is activated, this list refreshes automatically, and users can utilize standard commands to navigate and copy text as needed.

The new speech recap window in Narrator.

For instant referencing, users can simply use Narrator key + Control + X to copy the last spoken phrase directly to the clipboard, enhancing the overall usability of the Narrator tool.

Narrator’s speech recap window snapped to the right corner of the screen showing real-time transcriptions.

This feature is particularly advantageous for Assistive Technology trainers and professionals who support individuals with visual impairments or hearing challenges, as live transcriptions can be viewed in real time alongside ongoing tasks.

Improvements and Customizations

User Interface Enhancements

An upgraded UI for unexpected restarts is now being tested, aligning more closely with Windows 11’s visual guidelines. This “green screen”experience simplifies user engagement while still presenting essential technical information and is rolling out to Windows Insiders operating version 24H2 and above.

The updated UI for unexpected restarts for Windows Insiders on preview builds.

Copilot Enhancements

The launch of Copilot on Windows can now be initiated using the Win + C shortcut, with options to customize this experience through the settings.

Users can activate the press-to-talk feature by pressing and holding the Copilot key or Win + C for two seconds, enabling seamless voice interactions without disrupting workflow.

Voice interaction improvements are being rolled out alongside the latest Copilot app update.

Click to Do (Preview)

For those using Copilot+ PCs, the Click to Do feature is now available in preview, allowing users to access this convenient tool directly from the Start menu.

The Click to Do feature now supports intelligent text actions in additional languages, including Spanish and French, enhancing accessibility for a broader user base.

Click to Do on the Start menu All list highlighted in a red box.

Notable Fixes in the Latest Build

Addressing Known Issues

A significant fix addresses taskbar icon sizing which will now properly adjust when using devices in tablet mode.

File Explorer receives multiple fixes that enhance stability and address issues related to search functionality, including problems with hanging and unexpected crashes.

Windows Update and Settings Improvements

Several updates rectify misleading reboot prompts and display issues concerning cumulative updates in the Windows Update settings.

Enhancements to the Settings application have been enacted to prevent crashes while navigating specific menus.

Known Issues Going Forward

General Observations

New Beta Channel participants may initially receive update Build 26120.3360 before access to the latest updates, a temporary measure during this rollout.

A build version discrepancy may be observed post-PC resets, though future updates will rectify this.

Future Fixes in Progress

Ongoing efforts aim to address Recalls’ issues with saving snapshots and enhancing Click to Do responses.