Microsoft continues to tweak its Windows 11 Insider channels, and this latest Beta Channel build, version 22635.2419, drops the split versions that it introduced back in July 2022. Now, instead of having one build increment with new features rolling out, and one build with no new features, the Windows Insider program is moving to a new system using the Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) technology.
This should be familiar to you with the toggle in the Windows Insider Settings menu for “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.” So instead of choosing between build increments, if you’re in the Beta Channel, if you want the latest features as soon as they roll out to you, turn this toggle on. If you’d rather wait until these features have been more fully tested, leave the toggle off.
These features will be documented as either rolling out to only those with the toggle turned on, or rolling out for everyone.
So what’s in build 22635.2419?
In this first build in this new Beta Channel system, there are no “toggle on” features. What is included are improvements to the Windows Ink experience that were introduced but then disabled beginning with 22631.2271. These improvements, allowing inking directly onto edit fields in Windows are now back with a number of fixes from the earlier versions.
Microsoft plans to monitor feedback as it rolls these fixes out, so you may not see the newish Windows Ink experience right away.
In addition, the new Copilot in Windows icon is rolling out to everyone in the Beta Channel. All Beta Channel Insiders will also see the following fixes:
- Fixed an issue where explorer.exe was crashing for Insiders in the previous flight when you tried to open File Explorer by using Open File Location in an app.
- This update addresses an issue that causes delays when you sign in. This occurs when a tablet pen is connected to your device.
- This update addresses an issue that affects iCloud Calendar and Contacts. Outlooks fails to properly sync them when you use the iCloud for Windows app. To resume syncing, follow the steps in this Apple Support article.
In addition, there’s a visual refresh of the Windows license pages on the Microsoft Store. Be sure to check out the blog post for all the details.
