14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has just released a new Windows 11 preview build to users enrolled in the Windows Insider program in the Dev channel.
Windows 11 build 22518 comes with lots of improvements, though one thing that’s worth knowing from the very beginning is this release wouldn’t be offered to ARM64 computers. Microsoft says it’s all due to a problem causing these devices to roll back when attempt to install this build.
One of the biggest changes in this build is the debut of a new feature called Spotlight collection backgrounds, which means users can now get a refreshed desktop every once in a while.
Spotlight was already available on the lock screen, and now Microsoft is bringing it to the desktop as a way to make the desktop overall more dynamic with new wallpapers.
In addition, build 22518 also comes with lots of other changes, including a new entry point for Widgets with weather, voice access, and the debut of WSL on the Microsoft Store.
New known issues
Microsoft has also revealed this build comes with a set of new known issues, including several aimed at widgets – this is something that more or less makes sense, especially given this build comes with improvements specifically for this feature.
“Changing the taskbar alignment can cause the Widgets button to disappear from taskbar. Widgets board may not have the correct resolution when hovering the entry point on a secondary monitor. The Widgets board may be temporarily blank. Links may not open properly when opening the widgets board using hover. When having multiple monitors, Widgets content on taskbar may get out of sync between monitors,” Microsoft explains.
You can download the new build from Windows Update if you’re in the Dev channel, and make sure you send feedback to the company on the new features that are part of this release.