Microsoft is at the origin of a new “Preview” of Windows 11. It is deployed on the BETA channel of the Insider program. We have two versions allowing the activation or not of the new functionalities.
Concretely Windows 11 build 22623.730 and Build 22621.730 are now available for download. In the first case we have an operating system with new features enabled while in the second case they are not.
One of the highlights concerns the taskbar. After removing it, Microsoft decides to reintroduce a version optimized for tablets. The giant explains
We’re reintroducing the touch-optimized taskbar which is designed to make you feel more confident and comfortable using your device as a tablet.
Your taskbar will automatically switch to this optimized version when you disconnect or fold the keyboard of your 2-in-1 device. This feature only works on devices that can be used as tablets. It does not work on laptops or desktop computers.
It operates in two states, reduced or expanded. In the reduced state, it is no longer visible leaving more space on the screen while limiting the risks of accidentally activating it when handling the tablet. In the expanded state, it is optimized to be easier to handle by touch. You can switch between the two states by swiping up and down.
Windows 11 build 22623.730 et Build 22621.730, des corrections de bugs
In parallel we have small updates for the system tray. These are not new because tests have been conducted for a while on the DEV channel on them. This concerns rounded focus and hover on all icons. Note that it is not possible to drag and drop or rearrange the icons of this new system tray. The bug is known and Microsoft is working on a fix.
Finally we have several bug fixes and improvements, some of which target the popular File Explorer application. For example the home search now shows recent cloud file activity in the detailed view. Microsoft 365 cloud files can be searched using additional file properties such as location, extension, and file activity. In addition, results are displayed as you type. The full page of search results is thus updated live without the need to press Enter. Added to this are three fixes for the Start menu.
The operating system comes with several known issues, the vast majority of which relate to the tablet-optimized taskbar.