Microsoft has once again graced us with a fresh update, rolling out the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3930 (KB5040550) to the Beta Channel.

As always, these updates are pivotal in shaping the final versions that reach your devices, offering a glimpse into the future of Windows.

Let’s dive deep into what this build brings and how it can enhance your computing experience.

The Evolution of Windows 11: Beta Channel Updates

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Microsoft continues to refine and enhance the Windows 11 experience for those in the Beta Channel.

The latest update follows the trend of version 23H2, introduced via an enablement package (Build 22635. xx). Insiders can toggle settings to receive features as soon as they are available. This progressive rollout ensures that early adopters can test and provide feedback while others receive these enhancements gradually.

New Features Gradually Rolling Out

Shared Content in File Explorer Home

File Explorer is evolving to become more intuitive and connected. The new feature allows users to access files shared with them quickly. Whether you’re signed in with a personal Microsoft account or a Microsoft Entra ID for commercial users, you can now see shared files directly from the File Explorer Home under the ‘Shared’ tab. This includes files from email, Teams chats, and other Microsoft services, making collaboration seamless.

Additionally, File Explorer now supports various file types in the Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections. This means that files from Designer, Loop, Power BI, and Forms, among others, will be more accessible, enhancing productivity.

Taskbar & System Tray Enhancements

The taskbar and system tray receive a notable upgrade with a simplified system tray highlighting the date/time in a shortened form and showcasing the notification bell icon based on your Do Not Disturb (DND) status. This minimalist approach reduces clutter, though you can revert to the traditional view through settings if preferred.

Moreover, Microsoft has refined the previews that appear when you hover over taskbar apps, enhancing the animations based on user feedback. First-letter navigation on the taskbar is another nifty feature, allowing users to quickly jump to apps by pressing the corresponding letter key. This is especially useful for power users who rely heavily on keyboard shortcuts.

Windows Studio Effects

Windows Studio Effects is pushing the boundaries of what AI can do for your camera and audio. Available on devices with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), these effects can now be accessed more conveniently via a new icon in the system tray.

Clicking this icon launches the Studio Effects page in Quick Settings, streamlining access and usability. This enhancement ensures that users can quickly adjust settings during video calls or recordings, improving overall user experience.

Windows Share

Sharing content with Android devices has never been easier. The Windows share window’s UI has been updated, moving the option to share with Android devices under “Nearby Share.” This feature requires pairing your Android device with your Windows PC using the Link to Windows app, facilitating seamless content transfer between your devices.

Narrator Performance Improvements

For users relying on Narrator, Microsoft has significantly improved scan mode, particularly enhancing its performance in Microsoft Edge and large documents. These changes ensure that the Narrator is more responsive, making it a valuable tool for users who depend on it for navigation and reading.

System Info (msinfo32) Update

To make Windows more accessible, System Info (msinfo32) now adheres to your text size preferences set under Settings > Accessibility > Text Size. This change ensures that vital system information is easier to read for users with visual impairments.

Fixes Gradually Rolling Out

Start Menu Fixes

The start menu sees improvements, particularly addressing issues where screen readers didn’t read the All apps list correctly and some apps were not sorted properly under certain display languages.

Taskbar & System Tray Fixes

Issues where keyboard focus might get lost while navigating the taskbar with Shift + Tab have been resolved. This fix enhances the overall usability for keyboard-centric users.

Fixes for Everyone in the Beta Channel

A critical fix addresses an issue where users couldn’t view or interact with the taskbar after installing KB5039302 on Windows N editions. This problem, specific to editions lacking most media-related tools, has been rectified, ensuring smoother operations post-update.

Known Issues to Be Aware Of

As with any new build, some known issues persist. For the simplified system tray, if the “Show notification icon” setting is greyed out, toggling “Notifications” off and on again should resolve it.

Certain issues with shared file visibility, keyboard focus, and Narrator functionality have been identified in File Explorer. The team is actively working on fixes for these areas.

Reminders for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel

It’s crucial to remember that updates in the Beta Channel are experimental. Features and experiences may change, evolve, or be removed based on feedback and testing outcomes. This iterative process helps Microsoft fine-tune the user experience before a broader release.

Additionally, many features start in the Beta Channel but may not be fully localized initially. Localization issues can be reported via Feedback Hub, contributing to a more polished final product.

Conclusion

The Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3930 represents Microsoft’s commitment to continuous improvement and user-centric design. By gradually rolling out new features and improvements, Microsoft ensures that Insiders can test and provide valuable feedback, shaping the future of Windows 11.

As always, your feedback is invaluable. Whether through the Feedback Hub or community forums, every piece of input helps refine and perfect the Windows experience.

Stay tuned for more updates and happy testing, Insiders!

Microsoft is ramping up the action with fresh preview builds for Windows 11 and Windows 10 Insiders on the Release Preview Channel today.

Let’s dive into the details and see what’s new.

For those of you testing Windows 11, there are two noteworthy builds: the 22H2 build 22621.3951 and the 23H2 build 22631.3951.

These updates include various improvements that enhance the user experience, particularly within File Explorer, the Start Menu, and Windows Share.

Highlights for Windows 11 Insiders:

• File Explorer Enhancements: One of the standout features is the introduction of Duplicate File Explorer tabs. When you right-click on a File Explorer tab, you’ll see a brand-new option to duplicate it. This small but mighty addition can significantly streamline your workflow, allowing for quicker navigation and multitasking within File Explorer.
• Start Menu Tweaks: Microsoft has also made pining apps to your taskbar more intuitive. You can drag apps directly from the Pinned section of the Start Menu and drop them onto the taskbar. This improvement simplifies the process and enhances the customization of your workspace.
• Nearby Sharing Notifications (China-specific): Another interesting update caters to our users in China. If Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned off when you enable Nearby Sharing, Windows 11 will now prompt you to turn these features on. This ensures a seamless sharing experience without diving into settings manually.

Windows 10 Updates:

Let’s not forget about our Windows 10 Insiders. Microsoft is also flighting the Windows 10 22H2 build 19045.4713 to Insiders on the Release Preview and Beta Channels.

This build is particularly exciting for those who recently joined the Windows 10 Beta Channel, as it invites you to toggle on new features early via Windows Update.

• Taskbar Fix: One of the key fixes in today’s build addresses an issue with the taskbar on secondary monitors. When the search box setting is enabled, it will now display correctly on secondary monitors, enhancing usability and consistency across multiple displays.
• Bug Fixes: In addition to the taskbar fix, this build includes several bug fixes for Insiders on both the Beta and Release Preview Channels. Although not all the fixes are worth detailing, it’s important to note that Microsoft has resolved issues affecting Windows Backup and Universal Print clients, ensuring smoother operation in these areas.

Additional News:

If you missed it, yesterday also saw a noteworthy release. Microsoft rolled out Windows 11 build 26252 for Insiders on the Canary Channel.

This build brings a fresh design for lock screen widgets and introduces new energy recommendations specifically for devices with HDR displays. These updates are part of Microsoft’s ongoing effort to refine and enhance the user experience.

These latest builds showcase Microsoft’s commitment to continuously improving and evolving the Windows ecosystem. Whether you’re a Windows 11 or Windows 10 Insider, there are plenty of exciting updates to explore and provide feedback on. Stay tuned to The Redmond Cloud for more updates and insights into Microsoft’s latest developments.

Happy testing!

Among the highlights are the in-place repair feature and the ability to easily remove Cortana.

Additionally, Windows 11 finally delivers on its promise of 3D-like emojis, though some might argue it’s overdue.

This article explores these new additions, their functionality, and their potential impact on the upcoming Windows 11 release.

In-Place Repair Feature: Fixing Problems with Ease

The in-place repair feature is a notable addition to Windows 11 in build 25905.

The option “Fix problems using Windows Update” is accessible under Recovery options in Settings> System. It enables users to refresh their system without losing any data, installed applications, or chosen settings.

This process aims to address any glitches or issues users may have encountered, providing a convenient and relatively painless way to maintain system integrity.

This promising feature is likely to be well-received and is expected to be included in the final release version of Windows 11.

From Twitter user Xeno.

The ability to repair Windows via Windows Update is now fully working in Canary build.
It should be enabled by default and can be found in System > Recovery > "Fix problems using Windows Update" pic.twitter.com/Ftg5Qk6r0g

— Xeno (@XenoPanther) July 12, 2023

Bid Farewell to Cortana with Ease

With Microsoft’s Copilot slated to replace Cortana in Windows 11, build 25905 introduces an easy way to uninstall the digital assistant. Cortana will no longer be supported later in the year, making this new feature highly relevant. Users can now remove Cortana directly from the Start menu, just like any other app, streamlining the process and giving users greater control over their system’s functionalities.

Windows 11 Embraces 3D-Like Emojis

Finally, Windows 11 delivers on its promise of 3D-like emojis in build 25905. Though it might have taken longer than anticipated, Microsoft has included these expressive additions to enhance the user experience. While some users may find the delay disappointing, the introduction of these new emojis is a welcome addition and might help differentiate Windows 11 from its predecessors.

The Road Ahead for Windows 11

As Windows 11 continues to undergo testing and development, build 25905’s new features have captured the attention of users and enthusiasts alike. The in-place repair feature, in particular, holds significant potential for improving the operating system’s overall stability and performance. Additionally, the removal of Cortana marks a notable shift in Microsoft’s strategy as they make way for the arrival of Copilot, an AI that is rumored to debut with the 23H2 update.

The Future of In-Place Repair in Windows 11

The in-place repair feature introduced in build 25905 is a promising addition to Windows 11’s repertoire. As it is being tested in the Canary channel, the development team will likely gather valuable feedback from users and make necessary improvements. Ensuring that the process remains seamless and preserves user data and settings will be of utmost importance. If successful, this feature could prove to be a valuable tool for users to maintain their systems efficiently and prevent data loss during troubleshooting.

Cortana’s Exit and the Rise of Copilot

Microsoft’s decision to remove Cortana and introduce Copilot reflects the company’s commitment to evolving its digital assistant capabilities. With the inclusion of Copilot in the upcoming 23H2 update, users can expect an enhanced AI assistant that is designed to be more intuitive and integrated with Windows 11. However, as rumors circulate regarding Copilot’s current lack of functionality, Microsoft may face challenges in ensuring a seamless transition from Cortana to Copilot. User feedback during testing will be crucial in refining Copilot’s features and ensuring its successful integration into Windows 11.

The Impact of Delayed 3D-Like Emojis

While the addition of 3D-like emojis in build 25905 is a welcome improvement, the delay in their implementation has garnered mixed reactions. Microsoft’s commitment to delivering on its promises is commendable, but the lengthy delay might have caused some users to lose interest in the feature. Nevertheless, the inclusion of these expressive emojis will undoubtedly enhance communication and user interactions within the Windows 11 ecosystem.

Conclusion

Windows 11 build 25905 introduces several exciting new features and improvements that are likely to enhance the user experience. The in-place repair feature presents a convenient solution for addressing system glitches while preserving user data and settings.

Additionally, the streamlined removal of Cortana prepares the way for the anticipated arrival of Copilot. While some might lament the overdue introduction of 3D-like emojis, they undoubtedly contribute to the overall appeal of Windows 11.

As development and testing continue, user feedback will be instrumental in refining these features and ensuring a successful launch of the next-generation Windows operating system.

The announcement about this hub was initially made during Microsoft’s Build conference in May, where they also showcased AI-generated app review summaries for the Microsoft Store.

Although these summaries haven’t been implemented yet, they are expected to appear alongside an app’s rating in the store, providing concise summaries of user reviews.

Currently, the AI hub will have its own dedicated tab on the left side of the Microsoft Store, positioned directly below the Movies & TV option.

While it’s challenging to determine the specific apps included in the AI hub without firsthand access to the preview build, Microsoft’s shared image suggests the inclusion of AI image-editing applications, such as Luminar Neo, alongside other tools.

Furthermore, the Microsoft Store will introduce a new price-tracking feature, allowing users to monitor how much an app’s price has dropped in the past 30 days.

This addition aims to facilitate decision-making when considering app purchases, providing insight into whether buying immediately or waiting for a future sale is better.

Other updates include the long-awaited introduction of 3D emojis promised by Microsoft two years ago and a bug fix for Zune players, resolving driver installation issues for these devices.

According to Microsoft, Windows Insiders in all channels using version 22306.1401.x.x or higher of the Microsoft Store will have access to the AI hub and the price tracker. However, there is no information available regarding the timeline for the wider release to all users.

It’s important to note that not all versions of Windows 11 will be affected. Specifically, the original versions will be discontinued.

Windows 11 was initially announced in October 2021, and now, after two years, Microsoft has confirmed that all versions released in October 2021 will reach the end of their lifecycle on October 10, 2023.

The following versions of Windows 11 will be impacted:

• Windows 11 Home, version 21H2
• Windows 11 Pro, version 21H2
• Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, version 21H2
• Windows 11 Pro Education, version 21H2

This change will affect users who are currently using these older versions of the Windows 11 operating system.

These versions will no longer receive security updates after the specified date. Consequently, they will receive their final update until October 10.

Subsequently, these versions will become more susceptible to security threats and vulnerabilities.

So, what can users do in this situation? Microsoft advises users to update their PCs to the latest version, 22H2, to continue receiving updates, new features, and security patches.

Users can simply download and install the latest version available for their PC through the Windows Update option located in Settings.

To update your PC to the latest Windows 11 version, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Click on “Check for updates.”
4. Tap on the update button when the update is available.
5. Wait for the update to download and install.
6. Restart your PC to complete the installation process.

This update succeeds Windows 10 and offers a host of exciting features, improvements, and visual enhancements.

With the forced rollout, Microsoft aims to ensure that all eligible devices receive the update to leverage the latest functionalities and security enhancements.

In this article, we will delve into the details of the Windows 11 22H2 update and explore the implications of Microsoft’s decision to enforce its installation.

Windows 11 22H2 Features and Enhancements

The Windows 11 22H2 ‘Moment 3’ update introduces several significant features designed to enhance user experience and productivity. One of the notable changes is the redesigned Start menu, which is now centered on the taskbar, providing a fresh and modern look.

Additionally, the taskbar now supports widgets that allow users to customize their desktop with live updates on news, weather, calendar, and more.

Microsoft has also revamped the Windows Store, making it more accessible to users and developers. The new store offers a wider range of applications, including support for popular Android apps through the Amazon Appstore integration.

This expanded compatibility bridges the gap between Windows and Android ecosystems, further enriching the user experience.

Windows 11 22H2 also introduces a new feature called Snap Layouts, which allows users to organize and multitask quickly across multiple windows.

Virtual Desktops have also been enhanced, providing a more seamless transition between workspaces. Moreover, Microsoft has improved gaming by introducing DirectStorage, Auto HDR, and other gaming-oriented features to provide a more immersive experience for gamers.

Forced Rollout Rationale and Implications

The decision to enforce the rollout of Windows 11 22H2 stems from Microsoft’s commitment to improving security, performance, and overall user experience. By mandating the installation, Microsoft ensures that eligible devices are equipped with the latest software, benefiting from enhanced security protocols and optimized performance.

From a security standpoint, the forced rollout ensures that users receive crucial updates to safeguard their systems against emerging threats. Windows 11 includes stronger security measures such as hardware-based isolation, secure boot, and integrated Microsoft Defender Antivirus to provide a more resilient defense against malware and cyberattacks.

In terms of performance, the new update incorporates optimizations and refinements that leverage modern hardware capabilities. With the forced rollout, Microsoft can address compatibility issues, offer bug fixes, and streamline the overall user experience. Moreover, regular updates provide Microsoft with valuable feedback, allowing them to identify and resolve potential performance bottlenecks.

However, the decision to enforce the update also raises concerns for users who may prefer to stay on older versions of Windows or have hardware limitations preventing them from upgrading. Some users may be accustomed to the previous user interface or have specific software requirements that are not compatible with Windows 11.

To address these concerns, Microsoft has provided a compatibility checker tool that assists users in determining if their device meets the minimum requirements for Windows 11.

Additional features in this rollout

The update includes the following new features:

• Live captions in additional languages: Live captions are now supported in several more languages, including Simplified and Traditional Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Danish, Korean, and other English dialects. This feature can be enabled through the Quick Settings accessibility flyout menu or using the WIN + Ctrl + L keyboard shortcut.
• Redesigned In-App Voice Access Command Help Page: The voice access command help page has been redesigned for improved usability, featuring descriptions and examples for each command, a search bar for quick command access, and new categories for additional guidance.
• New text selection and editing voice access commands: New commands for text selection and editing have been added, offering users greater control over their content.
• VPN status icon: A new icon displays the VPN connection status and has been added to the system tray.
• Display seconds in the system tray clock: Users now have the option to display seconds in the system tray clock.
• Quick copy for two-factor authentication codes: A new feature adds a convenient copy button to notification toasts for two-factor authentication codes.
• File Explorer’s context menu gets access key shortcuts: One-stroke keyboard shortcuts for rapid command execution have been added to File Explorer’s context menu.
• Multi-app kiosk mode: Ideal for scenarios where multiple users share the same device, this feature allows administrators to control which apps can run on a device and block specific functionalities.
• Live kernel memory dump collection from Task Manager: This new feature aids troubleshooting while the operating system continues to work.
• Content Adaptive Brightness Control: This feature, which adjusts display brightness based on content, is now available on laptops and 2-in-1 devices.
• USB4 Hubs and Devices Settings Page: A new settings page has been added, offering detailed information about the system’s USB4 capabilities and connected peripherals.
• Presence sensor privacy setting: This setting enables users to control which apps can access their device’s presence sensors.
• Improved search performance within Settings: The update enhances the performance of the search function within Settings.
• Changes in Print Screen Key Behavior: The default action for the print screen key has been changed to open the Snipping Tool.
• Limit on most recent tabs: This update limits the number of recent tabs displayed in Settings > Multitasking.
• Enhanced cloud and integrated search suggestions: This feature assists users in typing popular words in Simplified Chinese using the Input Method Editor (IME).

Conclusion

Microsoft’s forced rollout of the Windows 11 22H2 ‘Moment 3′ update signifies its commitment to improving user experience, security, and performance across its ecosystem. The update brings a range of exciting features and enhancements, such as the centered Start menu, redesigned Windows Store, improved multitasking capabilities, and gaming optimizations.

While the forced nature of the rollout may cause concerns for some users, Microsoft’s decision aims to ensure that eligible devices are equipped with the latest software advancements. By doing so, Microsoft strengthens the security of its users’ systems and provides a more optimized and refined computing experience.

For users who may have reservations about the forced update, Microsoft’s compatibility checker tool helps identify potential compatibility issues and hardware requirements. This empowers users to make informed decisions about upgrading to Windows 11.

As the forced rollout of Windows 11 22H2 ‘Moment 3’ progresses, it will be interesting to see how users adapt to the new features and if Microsoft’s decision proves beneficial for its vast user base. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a secure and efficient computing environment that leverages the latest technological advancements, and this update serves as a significant step toward achieving that objective.

The Insider Program offers early access to Windows Insider Preview builds, allowing enthusiasts and developers to test new features and provide valuable feedback. We have the Windows Insider Preview Build 23493 in the spotlight, which brings several exciting enhancements and optimizations.

Additionally, we’ll discuss the impact of Copilot, an AI-powered code completion tool introduced by GitHub, and its integration with the latest Windows Insider build.

Windows Insider Preview Build 23493: Key Features

Windows Insider Preview Build 23493 is a significant milestone that introduces a range of features designed to enhance user experience and productivity. Here are some notable additions:

1. Start Menu Improvements: The Start Menu receives a revamped design featuring a cleaner and more organized layout. The Live Tiles have been resized and offer better customization options, enabling users to personalize their Start Menu according to their preferences.
2. Virtual Desktop Enhancements: Build 23493 introduces new virtual desktop customization options, allowing users to set different wallpapers and themes for each virtual desktop. This feature enables better organization and workflow management for multitasking users.
3. Microsoft Store Updates: The Windows Insider Preview Build 23493 brings improvements to the Microsoft Store, including enhanced search functionality, faster download speeds, and an improved user interface. These updates aim to provide a smoother, more streamlined experience when browsing and downloading apps.
4. Gaming Enhancements: This build introduces DirectX 12 Ultimate support, offering gamers improved graphics performance and features. Additionally, Game Mode receives optimizations to enhance gaming performance, ensuring a more immersive and seamless gaming experience.

GitHub Copilot: Revolutionizing Code Completion

GitHub Copilot, developed by GitHub in collaboration with OpenAI, is an AI-powered code completion tool that has gained significant attention from developers worldwide. Copilot utilizes machine learning models trained on vast amounts of publicly available code to provide suggestions and auto-completion for code snippets.

With the integration of Copilot into Windows Insider Preview Build 23493, developers can leverage this powerful tool directly within their coding environment. Copilot learns from the codebase, suggesting relevant code snippets and offering intelligent completion suggestions as developers write code. This innovative technology has the potential to significantly speed up the development process, increase productivity, and reduce repetitive coding tasks.

The integration of Copilot in the Windows Insider Preview Build 23493 offers several benefits:

1. Enhanced Productivity: Copilot’s ability to provide accurate code suggestions and completions significantly speeds up development workflows. Developers can focus more on higher-level logic and architecture rather than spending time on mundane and repetitive coding tasks.
2. Learning from Open-Source Code: Copilot has been trained on a massive dataset of publicly available code from open-source repositories. Exposure to various coding styles and patterns helps Copilot generate more accurate and contextually appropriate code suggestions.
3. Language Support: Copilot supports a wide range of programming languages, including popular ones like Python, JavaScript, and C++. Its versatility makes it a valuable asset for developers across different domains and disciplines.
4. Collaboration Potential: Copilot has the potential to facilitate collaboration among development teams. It can suggest code snippets that align with the project’s coding style and standards, making it easier for team members to understand and contribute to the codebase.

Summary

Windows Insider Preview Build 23493 offers a glimpse into the future of the Windows operating system, showcasing exciting features that enhance productivity and user experience. The integration of GitHub Copilot brings AI-powered code completion directly into the Windows development environment, revolutionizing how developers write code.

With Copilot’s ability to learn from vast amounts of open-source code, developers can expect more accurate and contextually relevant code suggestions, saving time and effort. As Copilot continues to evolve, it has the potential to become an invaluable tool for developers worldwide, enabling them to write better code and build innovative solutions more efficiently.

By participating in the Windows Insider Program and exploring builds like 23493, users can contribute to the development process, providing valuable feedback and helping shape the future of the Windows operating system. With each iteration, Microsoft strives to create a more powerful, intuitive, and developer-friendly platform, empowering users to achieve their goals easily.

iCloud integration.

Or, more specifically, iCloud Photos integration.

This basically means that those of you who are entrenched in the Apple ecosystem can now manage photos that you have stored on iCloud right from within the Photos app. This functionality was added to the application with version 2022.31100.9001.0.

It comes a little less than a month after Microsoft began rolling out the first Moment update for its operating system, which was promised during last month’s Surface showcase event.

While we still wait for the screen recorder and Apple Music app to arrive for the OS, the software titan has brought this iCloud integration to all Windows 11 users.

The company describes this new addition as:

“We know that many Windows customers have photo and video collections on their iPhones that they would like to be able to view on their PC. This iCloud Photos integration will make it easier for those with an iPhone to have direct access to all their cherished memories in one organized place and is another step in our continued efforts to make experiences on Windows 11 seamless.”

Sweet!

Those of you who own an iPhone and are using iCloud Photos to store pictures and videos now have the ability to sync your digital libraries with your Windows PCs.

The Photos app in Windows 11 has received a dedicated section where you can browse and manage the images stored in the cloud. This is not too dissimilar to how the application lets you view photos from OneDrive.

Getting in on this requires downloading the latest Photos app and iCloud for Windows from the Microsoft Store. Be sure to install all available updates, then sign in with your Apple ID. Launch the Photos app and click iCloud Photos on the left pane.

Microsoft says that the updated Photos app should become available to all users by the end of the month as the rollout commences.

And this should come as no surprise, considering it is even considering an ad-supported variant of the OS.

The concept of ads in Windows has long been controversial in the community ever since the dawn of Windows 10. While some newbies find them welcome, most users believe that Microsoft has no right to spam them with advertisements once they pay for a product.

But Redmond doesn’t seem bothered by this, as the software titan continues to display ads for its products and services in the OS and, occasionally, third-party solutions.

Now, the company is experimenting with a new idea that is, again, sure to fuel frustration in the community.

As spotted, some new ads have made their way directly to the user session flyout in the Start Menu.

They show up once you access the user section controls, a private and cloistered area of the operating system. Seeing advertisements here is no fun sight, and putting advertisements there does not make the ads feel like home.

For starters, we have an ad for OneDrive, which promotes the cloud file storage service:

And then, there are recommendations for a Microsoft Account:

What’s more annoying than the fact that these ads are listed alongside important buttons that enable signing in and changing account settings is that they cannot be disabled. Windows 11 does not provide a way to turn off ads completely through the operating system, after all.

Microsoft justifies these new ads as helpful badges meant for new novice users, but it is clear that these are advertisements.

The software titan is still testing these ads with a select group of users in the latest preview builds, alongside ads and popups on the taskbar itself. Since these are still under testing, there is a chance that it could likely change based on the feedback and criticism from the community.

Speaking of which, the community seems annoyed by this, so we will have to see where it goes.

Free and on demand.

These are great for developers who want to start writing apps for the new OS, or you know, regular folks who are curious to see what’s new in the new Windows 11 release. If you are one, you can now download these virtual machines that the Redmond-based company has just put up.

The software titan updated its VMs with the latest tooling, and these virtual machines are loaded full of developer tools, including Visual Studio 2022, WSL, and other utilities.

Here’s what they offer:

• Windows 11 Enterprise SKU (Evaluation)
• Visual Studio 2022 Community Edition with UWP, .NET Desktop, Azure, and Windows App SDK for C# workloads
• Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 with Ubuntu pre-installed
• Windows Terminal
• Developer Mode

Rock solid!

It is worth mentioning that these Windows 11-based virtual machines are not entirely free, in the sense that you can use these VMs at no cost until January 10, 2023. After this date, Microsoft will ask you to activate your copy of Windows just like any other virtual machine or local installation.

Meaning you can activate your system with a genuine key to continue using it beyond this date.

Still, two months should be more than enough time for people to get acquainted with the latest operating system’s tooling and features.

These official Windows 11 virtual machines are available in four variants for different virtualization software: VMware, VirtualBox, Hyper-V, and Parallels. You need at least 20 GB of free disk space to get started with one of these puppies.

Details and download links are available on the official website.