Alex Ruben
Windows 11 Build 22635.5025 Review: Enhanced Features and Usability Improvements
The latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.5025 introduces several noteworthy features and improvements aimed at enhancing user experience and productivity. This update, primarily aimed at beta channel users, brings about changes in File Explorer, the Start Menu, and even introduces a new photo editing feature. Below, we delve into each of these enhancements and their potential impact on everyday use.
New Recommended Files in File Explorer
The update introduces a significant enhancement in File Explorer, now allowing users to see recommended files on the homepage. This feature is designed to give quick access to files based on user activity, including frequently used files, recently downloaded items, or content added to the file explorer gallery. Users signed in with a personal or local Microsoft account will benefit from this feature, while those with work or school accounts will see additional recommendations.
However, it is essential to note that this feature is not yet available to users in the European Economic Area. Quick access folders also remain available in the navigation pane for easy access to pinned folders, ensuring that users can efficiently manage their files.
Start Menu Snap Group Recommendations
Another exciting addition in this build is the recommended Snap Group feature in the Start Menu. Microsoft is testing a new capability that suggests pairs of apps likely to be used together based on users’ activity. For instance, if you frequently use File Explorer alongside Settings, the Start Menu will recommend snapping these applications together. This feature is expected to streamline multitasking and improve workflow efficiency for users who regularly switch between specific apps.
Improved Web Search Support
With the growing importance of web search, Microsoft has enhanced support for web search providers in Windows search for users in the European Economic Area. This update aims to increase discoverability and ease of access to web-based resources directly from the taskbar, ultimately enhancing the user experience when seeking information online.
Photo Editing and Compression Feature
One of the standout features of this build is the new photo editing and compression option integrated into the share functionality. Users can now select an image to share and choose to edit it before sending. The editing options allow basic modifications such as cropping, rotating, and adjusting brightness, contrast, and saturation. Additionally, users can apply predefined filters and add markup or highlights to images, making this feature quite valuable for those who share visual content.
The compression option allows users to manage file sizes effectively before sharing, ensuring that images can be sent without taking up unnecessary bandwidth or storage. However, it is important to note that once an image has been compressed, it cannot be compressed further, which could limit usability for users needing to adjust file sizes multiple times.
File Explorer Performance Enhancements
This build also addresses performance issues within File Explorer, particularly a fix for the sluggish response experienced when closing the application. Users had reported delays when closing File Explorer using the ‘X’ button, which has now been resolved, resulting in a smoother experience.
Known Issues
While this update brings numerous enhancements, it does come with a few known issues related to the Start Menu. Users are encouraged to check the official Microsoft blog for detailed information on these known problems, as they may affect the overall user experience.
In conclusion, Windows 11 Build 22635.5025 presents several new features that enhance user productivity and streamline workflows. The introduction of recommended files, Snap Group suggestions, and advanced photo editing capabilities are particularly noteworthy. While there are some limitations, the overall improvements in performance and usability make this update a valuable addition for Windows 11 users.