New builds are now rolling out to the Beta channel

Sep 30, 2022 12:02 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft has started shipping new Windows 11 preview builds to the Beta channel, and just like before, the company is using an approach that provides some users with new features, while the others are getting builds with these features off by default.

The following builds are available today:  

  • Build 22623.730 = New features rolling out.
  • Build 22621.730 = New features off by default.

This time, Microsoft has included several important changes, and one of them is the reintroduction of the tablet-optimized taskbar.

“We’re re-introducing the touch-optimized taskbar that’s designed to make you feel more confident and comfortable using your device as a tablet. Your taskbar will automatically transition to this optimized version when you disconnect or fold back the keyboard on 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 PCs,” Microsoft explains.

“As a reminder, there are two states of this taskbar: collapsed and expanded. In the collapsed state, the taskbar gets out your way, gives you more screen space, and prevents you from accidentally invoking the taskbar when you’re holding your tablet. In the expanded state, the taskbar is optimized to be easier to use with touch. You can easily switch between the two states by swiping up and down on the bottom of your device.”

Then, the company is also debuting system tray updates that were originally shipped to the Dev channel and which come with a rounded focus and hover treatment on all icons.

When it comes to fixes, one of the most important concerns File Explorer.

“Home now searches more recently opened Microsoft 365 cloud files for users who are signed with their Microsoft account or have their Microsoft account connected to the profile via Settings. Home search now shows recent file activity for cloud files when in details view. Microsoft 365 cloud files can now be searched using additional file properties such as file location, extension, and activity,” Microsoft says.