The update KB5052094 (build 22631.4969) for Windows 11 is now being released in the Release Preview Channel as an early look at the March 2025 update. This release is specifically for version 23H2 and includes a range of new features, changes, and non-security improvements expected to be generally available on March 11, 2025, during the Patch Tuesday rollout for all supported versions of the operating system.
According to the company, Windows 11 build 22631.4969 introduces a new method for sharing files directly from the Taskbar, implements enhancements to the Windows Spotlight feature for the desktop experience, and incorporates numerous fixes and improvements to File Explorer.
Additionally, users will find changes in the Lock Screen, Settings app, the Start menu, and mouse settings.
Windows 11 March 2025 update (preview)
These are the non-security fixes and improvements slated for inclusion in the next Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11 23H2. It’s anticipated that these changes, along with others, will also be available for version 24H2 in the coming weeks.
Taskbar new share option
The most effective method of sharing files has been introduced in the update KB5052094. Microsoft has implemented a new feature that allows you to share files directly from the Jump List on the Taskbar. Now, you can simply right-click on an app like Notepad and select the “Share” button, which will appear next to your most recently accessed files.
Spotlight for desktop new icon
Microsoft is also planning improvements to the Windows Spotlight feature. The goal is to make it simpler to find information about the displayed image by hovering over it or clicking the “Learn about this picture” icon.
Users will notice a new icon for the Spotlight feature accompanied by dynamic text that relates to the current wallpaper.
Furthermore, when you click the “Like” button for an image on the Lock Screen, you’ll gain access to more detailed information about the image.
File Explorer with new option and fixes
Microsoft is adding an option to snooze or disable the “Start backup” prompt, which encourages users to back up their files to OneDrive directly from the address bar as one of the improvements to File Explorer.
This update also resolves several issues, including problems with processing URLs, address bar overlaps in full-screen mode, sluggishness in the context menu for cloud files, and thumbnail generation for search results.
Windows Narrator
The Windows Narrator scan mode will include the following new features to improve accessibility:
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Skip past links (n): Jumps to the text that comes immediately after a link.
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Jump to the start of an item (,): Jumps to the beginning of a large element, such as a table or list.
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Jump to the end of an item (.): Jumps to the end of a large element, such as a table or list.
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Jump to lists (l): Quickly navigates to the next list on the page or document.
Settings Home page with updated Game Pass card
For users with Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass subscriptions, the updated card now provides an option to invite friends to try the service for free.
Other improvements and fixes
While the Start menu itself doesn’t receive any new features in this release, the development team has addressed an issue that caused it to display the incorrect color when opening the account manager flyout menu.
Windows 11 build 22631.4969 also fixes a problem that caused the mouse cursor to revert to the default white color after a different color was selected and the User Account Control (UAC) dialog appeared.
Additionally, fixes are included for the Open Secure Shell (OpenSSH) service failing to start and for dwm.exe becoming unresponsive.
This release also includes updates for Paraguay Daylight Saving Time (DST) and the Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles for specific mobile operators.
Installation process
Step 1: Enroll your device in the Release Preview Channel through the “Windows Insider Program” settings, which can be found in the “Update & Security” section.
Step 2: Once your computer is enrolled in the program, navigate to the “Windows Update” settings.
Step 3: Enable the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option.
Step 4: Click the “Check for Updates” button.
It’s important to remember that this update is currently available for version 23H2 in the Release Preview Channel as Windows 11 build 22631.4969 (KB5052094). It will become available for version 24H2 in the near future, though it will have a slightly different build and KB number. The update is expected to be released in the Stable Channel on March 11, 2025, with different build numbers for versions 23H2 and 24H2, but with the same KB number.
This update provides several fixes and improvements for Windows 11 users, offering a glimpse into what’s coming in the March 2025 update. Make sure to enroll in the Release Preview Channel to test the new features.