Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27823 to the Canary Channel, introducing several new features and fixes that aim to improve the user experience. This update focuses on enhancing the Settings app, addressing File Explorer issues, and resolving various system-wide problems.
New “Top Cards” in Settings
The most notable addition in this build is the introduction of “Top Cards” in the Settings app. These cards provide a quick and easy way for users to view their PC’s key specifications.
Step 1: Navigate to Settings > System > About.
Step 2: Look for the new cards at the top of the page.
Step 3: View your PC’s processor, RAM, storage, and GPU details at a glance.
This feature simplifies the process of checking system specifications, which can be particularly useful when troubleshooting or considering hardware upgrades. However, it’s worth noting that these cards won’t appear on managed commercial PCs.
File Explorer Improvements
File Explorer receives several updates in this build, aimed at improving accessibility and fixing rendering issues.
Text Scaling Support
Microsoft has extended text scaling support to File Explorer, including Open/Save dialogs and copy dialogs. This change aligns with the company’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility across Windows 11.
Step 1: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Text size.
Step 2: Adjust the text size slider.
Step 3: Notice the changes applied to File Explorer and related dialogs.
Bug Fixes
- The “see more” menu (represented by “…”) now opens in the correct direction at all resolutions.
- A rendering issue when using the
Alt + Tabshortcut to switch to File Explorer has been resolved.
These fixes should result in a more consistent and reliable File Explorer experience for users.
Lock Screen and Login Enhancements
Build 27823 addresses a critical issue that was causing crashes on the lock screen:
- Fixed a bug where clicking “Sign in Options” would cause the system to crash.
This fix ensures a smoother login experience, especially for users who frequently switch between different sign-in methods.
New Setup Interface for Drive Management
Although not explicitly mentioned in the official changelog, this build introduces a new interface for managing drives during the Windows 11 setup process. This new menu allows users to partition and format unallocated space using Flexible Storage.
Step 1: Begin the Windows 11 installation process.
Step 2: Reach the drive selection screen.
Step 3: Notice the new interface for managing drives and partitions.
Step 4: Use the new tools to format or partition your drives as needed before installation.
This change provides more flexibility and control during the initial setup of Windows 11.
Additional System-wide Fixes
Build 27823 includes several other important fixes:
- Resolved crashes related to the
ctfmon.exeprocess andGetRawInputDatafunction. - Fixed an issue preventing non-admin users from uninstalling printer drivers.
- Addressed problems with printing from OneNote.
- Resolved a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error with the code
UNSUPPORTED_PROCESSORduring upgrades or fresh installs. - Fixed issues with the
CopyPixelsfunction and certain networking problems.
These fixes address a range of issues that could impact system stability and user experience.
Known Issues
Despite the numerous improvements, there are still some known issues in this build:
- Users may notice rendering problems with icons in the Taskbar.
- Some Copilot+ PCs may experience update-related issues.
Microsoft is actively working on resolving these remaining issues in future builds.
Windows 11 Build 27823 represents a significant step forward in improving system information accessibility and addressing various long-standing issues. While primarily aimed at Insiders in the Canary Channel, these changes offer a glimpse into the future improvements coming to all Windows 11 users. As always, feedback from Insiders will be crucial in refining these features before they reach the general public.