Windows Update Preview: Power Efficiency and Customizable Copilot Key

/ Windows, Microsoft, Tech Update, Operating Systems, Software

Microsoft has released the October update previews for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2, as well as Windows 10 version 22H2. These updates, available starting October 24, 2024, introduce significant enhancements such as a customizable Copilot key and improved battery utilization.

What's New in Windows 11

The update bearing the KB number KB5044380 raises the Windows 11 build to 22621.4391 and 22631.4391. Microsoft highlights several improvements, including a new feature under Settings > Personalization > Text Input, which allows users to configure which application the Copilot key should launch. Typically, on newer hardware, this key opens the Copilot app. However, when users log in using an Entra-ID account, the M365 app is set to open by default. Users can now select other applications as long as they are available in a signed MSIX package. A key limitation is that, if a PC does not feature a Copilot key, this setting will have no effect.

Addressing Minor Issues

The update also resolves several minor bugs. For example, laptops previously consumed excessive power in "modern standby mode"—an issue now corrected. Additionally, a glitch that prevented participation in Teams meetings due to Outlook meeting reminders has been fixed. Another minor fix involves the resolution of a network command text issue that occurred when using multifunction printers connected via USB cables, though Microsoft does not detail the specific impact of this issue.

Updates for Windows 11 24H2

In the KB5044384 update, Microsoft has advanced the build number for Windows 11 24H2 to 26100.2161. This update corrects additional issues, such as clearing the display errors linked to the depopulation process of storage space following system cleanup. Previously, a login attempt via the web might have failed due to an unresponsive screen, an issue now remedied. Microsoft plans to implement further improvements gradually, including a WLAN password dialog adopting the typical Windows 11 look. Furthermore, a new eject button for virtual hard disks (VHD/VHDx) in settings is anticipated. Microsoft is also promising an updated preview version for the Windows Sandbox Client. A known issue is that Roblox cannot be downloaded or played from the Microsoft Store on Windows-on-ARM devices; however, downloading it directly from the Roblox website and starting it afterward works adequately.

Windows 10 Improvements

Microsoft has not neglected Windows 10, with the KB5045594 update bringing version 22H2 up to build 19045.5073. This corrects a scanner driver issue preventing scanning through USB-connected multi-function printers. Additionally, the update addresses a stopping error 0x3B that could hinder upgrades to Windows 11. Access problems, such as black screen displays in Azure Virtual Desktop, have also been resolved.

Additional Fixes

Common improvements in both Windows 10 and 11 pertain to Webview2 apps which failed to recognize inputs from Bluetooth and Xbox 360 controllers. Also, in some regions, the phone numbers for activation hotlines have changed, and both Windows 10 and 11 now display these correctly.

Conclusion

Users who have enabled the "Get the latest updates as soon as they are available" option in Windows Update settings might have already received the update preview by Wednesday night on systems where it is available. However, users should be cautious, as past previews have occasionally led to reboot loops and blue or green screens.

This was originally reported by heise online.

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