Windows 11 Build 26200.5551 Enhancements: Simplified Settings and Widget Improvements

Microsoft Unveils Exciting Update for Windows Insiders

Microsoft has announced the release of an important update for Windows Insiders belonging to the Dev Channel. The new Build 26200.5551 (KB5055617) introduces several enhancements, including an improved search functionality for settings on Copilot+ PCs, advancements in widgets, and new features for the Narrator tool, among others.

Changelog Highlights

Enhanced Copilot+ PC Functionality

Streamlined Settings Search

To enhance the user experience on Copilot+ PCs, Microsoft has started implementing a new feature that simplifies the process of finding specific settings. Users can now enter natural language queries in the Windows search box on the taskbar. This means you can search for phrases like “change my theme” or “about my PC” without needing exact terminology. Powered by an advanced 40+ TOPS NPU, these search enhancements function even without an internet connection.

Improving Accessibility with Narrator

This update significantly enhances digital accessibility features within Narrator. By leveraging AI technology, Narrator will now generate rich, detailed descriptions for images, charts, and graphs on Copilot+ PCs. In a digital landscape flooded with visuals, many users with visual impairments struggle due to insufficient or absent alt text. This feature addresses that gap by providing comprehensive descriptions.

To activate this feature, simply press “Narrator key + Ctrl + D, ”and Narrator will articulate a contextual description that includes elements like persons, objects, colors, and text found within the image. Regular PCs will continue to offer more basic descriptions.

For instance, if a user asks about stock performance via Narrator, they might hear a detailed description of trends in Microsoft Corporation’s stock price compared to the S&P 500 and NASDAQ indices over a specified time range.

This new capability is currently available for Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with support for Intel and AMD systems expected soon. Activate Narrator by pressing “Ctrl + Windows key + Enter” or searching “Narrator” in the Windows search box. The first time you use image descriptions, models necessary for the feature will be downloaded, which can be tracked via Settings > Windows update.

For further inquiries about image descriptions in Narrator, refer to the frequently asked questions.

Widgets Improvements and Additions

Microsoft is refining its widgets feature, now allowing users to consume content like full articles, slideshows, and videos right from the MSN feed on the Windows 11 widgets board. Feedback from users will be essential for further enhancement of this functionality. You can manage the visibility of your MSN feed directly within the widget settings.

For users in the European Economic Area (EEA), the lock screen widgets experience has undergone significant updates. The weather widget on the lock screen now features customization options. Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen and select “Customize widget” from the weather options to tweak your settings. Additional widgets will be customizable in the upcoming releases.

Notable Fixes in This Update

The update includes several bug fixes aimed at enhancing performance across various applications:

Recall (Preview): Users will notice improvements correcting issues that previously caused app crashes within Settings, especially when adding apps to the Recall filtering feature.

File Explorer: Resolved issues causing crashes and visibility problems in the Save Dialog for users operating in dark mode.

Taskbar: Addressed problems with oversized app icons and implemented logic updates for desktop-pinned apps, improving visibility.

Input Device Issues: Resolved touchpad functionality problems experienced in earlier builds.

Graphics Enhancements: Fixed issues with pixel inversion and JPG image display inaccuracies.

Current Known Issues

General Issues

Joining the Dev Channel: New members will temporarily experience a two-step process involving Build 26200.5518 before accessing the latest 24H2-based flight.

A post-reset of PC settings may reflect the incorrect build version. This will be addressed in future Beta Channel updates.

Issues with Quick Assist for non-administrator users persist.

After this update, some functionalities in Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) may be impaired, with plans for resolution in upcoming updates.

A small number of apps may appear blank after updating; reopening these apps typically resolves the matter.

Recall (Preview) Alerts

Users can opt out of Recall features at any time. Note that the initial setup will delete entry points and binaries related to Recall.

Ensure Microsoft 365 apps are updated to the latest versions for optimal functionality.

Some users may experience difficulties with Recall’s automatic snapshot saving; a fix is in progress.

Click to Do (Preview) Notifications

Ensure intelligent text actions are updated for safety and availability within Click to Do.

Occasional launch failures of Click to Do may occur; a retry usually resolves this.

Investigations are ongoing regarding Click to Do icon visibility on non-Copilot+ PCs.

For the official announcement detailing these updates, you can refer to Microsoft’s blog.

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