January’s Windows 11 optional update adds Microsoft Account panel to Settings app

If you installed January’s KB5008353 optional preview update for Windows 11, then you’re getting a new feature that should make managing accounts easier. As many have pointed out, the update adds a new Microsoft Account panel to the Settings app, to put you in control of your subscriptions.

The new Microsoft Account settings panel doesn’t add too many additional controls, but it does help make keeping an eye on your Microsoft 365 subscriptions easier. Previously, you had to click a link that would take you out to your web browser to manage Microsoft 365. Now, with the update, you can see when your subscription expires, and how much space is being shared across your OneDrive.

There are also links to see more about Microsoft 365, when your next charges will be, and what benefits are covered under your account. Of course, there are links out to manage Microsoft Rewards, Payment options, order history, and even get account support. These all link you out to the Microsoft Account online experience.

Other than this new Microsoft Account page, this optional update addresses the issue where image editing programs might not properly render colors correctly on certain high dynamic range (HDR) displays. You can see the full changelog over on Microsoft’s website. And, you can go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to check for it. In the Optional updates available area, you’ll find the link to download and install the update.