New Features in Windows 11 Canary Build 27788: Enhanced MIDI Services and OneDrive Updates
New Windows 11 Canary Build 27788 Released for Insiders
Microsoft has introduced an exciting update for Windows Insiders with the release of Windows 11 Canary Build 27788. This build features a complete overhaul of MIDI services, a handy OneDrive enhancement that lets users continue editing files from their mobile devices on their PCs, and several improvements in File Explorer, among other updates.
We are thrilled to announce the inaugural public preview of Windows MIDI Services, which represents a complete redesign of MIDI on Windows. This update prioritizes an exceptional experience for musicians and lays a robust foundation for future enhancements.
MIDI, a protocol established in 1983, is crucial for synchronizing synthesizers and drum machines across modern electronic music. It’s integral for recording note sequences, controlling lighting and effects during performances, and maintaining audio equipment coordination in large venues. While not audio itself, MIDI is essential for music production and was pivotal in the evolution of multiple genres, including hip-hop. MIDI 2.0 introduces the first major upgrade to this protocol in four decades, delivering essential features such as improved speed and fidelity, enhanced instrument control, bi-directional communication, and better USB timing.
Windows MIDI Services emerges as an advanced MIDI stack that embraces both MIDI 2.0 and modernizes our MIDI 1.0 implementation. This service is compatible with 64-bit operating systems on all supported processors, including Arm64, and offers several advantages:
Comprehensive MIDI 2.0 Support: Encompasses high-speed data transfer, fidelity enhancements, increased controller resolution, and endpoint discovery.
Improved Timing: Enhanced transports that help reduce latency and jitter.
Multi-Client Capability: Allows multiple applications to interface with the same endpoint simultaneously.
Seamless Translation: Automatic conversion between MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0 based on your API and device requirements.
Open-Source Development: All components of the MIDI Service are MIT-licensed and crafted in collaboration with global partners.
By default, this service is enabled only for USB MIDI 2.0 devices and select USB MIDI 1.0 devices. However, users can manually assign it to any class-compliant USB MIDI 1.0 device for improved functionality. For a deeper dive into the built-in transports, learn more here.
Application Development Tools: Developers can utilize the Windows MIDI Services App SDK, which is available on our GitHub repository. This includes essential tools like:
Windows MIDI Services Console (midi.exe): A multifunctional tool for monitoring and sending messages.
MIDI Diagnostics (mididiag.exe): Offers insights into your MIDI state for troubleshooting.
MIDI Kernel Streaming Information (midiksinfo.exe): A technical resource for hardware developers.
We’re also working on a Network MIDI 2.0 transport and other exciting features that will be introduced in future builds. We invite Windows Insiders engaged in music production to experiment with this preview and share their insights on our Discord channel.
OneDrive: Effortlessly Resume Your Work
A new feature is being gradually rolled out, allowing users to resume editing OneDrive files from their mobile devices directly on their Windows 11 PC with just one click. Users will receive a notification prompting them to continue working on a file, such as a Word document, they recently accessed on their phones.
Details about this feature include:
Supports only personal Microsoft accounts, excluding work or school accounts.
Compatible with various file types, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and PDFs.
Requires that the file was opened on the mobile device while the PC was locked.
Best experience when logged into OneDrive via the default browser on the PC.
This feature can be managed through Settings > Apps > Resume.
Enhancements and Changes in Build 27788
File Explorer Updates:
Now, when the “Restore previous folder windows at logon”setting is activated, all tabs that were previously open will also be restored. Furthermore, any changes to settings regarding restarting apps will now automatically apply to File Explorer.
A new option has been introduced allowing users to snooze or turn off backup reminders directly from File Explorer.
Settings App Changes:
The Settings homepage is rolling out for commercial customers, showcasing relevant enterprise features and accounts overview for users with both work and personal Microsoft accounts.
Fixes in This Build
General Improvements:
Resolved an issue causing various system components to crash for some Insiders.
Addressed a SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION error reported by users.
Improved display fidelity for network interface cards (NICs) in settings.
Known Issues
General:
IMPORTANT: Users transitioning to the Canary Channel from different channels may encounter issues with Windows Hello PIN. Re-establishment is possible through the “Set up my PIN” option.
Persisting errors with the SFC /scannow command are under investigation.
File Explorer:
Restoring minimized File Explorer windows may result in rendering issues.
Settings App:
The homepage might crash; however, specific settings pages remain accessible via search functionality.
Leave a Reply