Microsoft today announced the release of Windows 11 Preview Build 22563 to Dev Channel Insiders. This new Windows 11 build includes a few new features like a tablet-optimized taskbar, improved Widgets experience, and a new group policy for IT admins. You can read about these new features in detail below.
Tablet-optimized taskbar:
Microsoft is introducing a new taskbar state for tablets alone. When you disconnect your keyboard on your 2-in-1 device, this optimized version of taskbar will be displayed.
There are two states: collapsed and expanded. In the collapsed state, the taskbar will be displayed in a compact way with no visible application icons. In the expanded state, the taskbar will be displayed with app icons. You can switch between the two states by swiping up and down on the bottom of your device.
Here’s how you can activate this feature:
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors
- Enable “Automatically hide the taskbar when using your device as tablet” feature.
Widgets improvements:
Microsoft is experimenting with a new experience that brings together the widgets and news feed experiences as a dynamic blended feed containing both widgets and news content. Based on your preference, you’ll still be able to pin your favorite Widgets to the top. If you’ve already customized your Widgets board, all your pinned widgets will be exactly where you expect.
New group policy:
IT admins in the education sector can now turn off all Windows Update notifications that might distract students during the school day.
Apart from the above new features, this build also comes with several bug fixes and minor improvements. For example, when you search from Quick Access, you will now have content from your OneDrive, Downloads, and any indexed location. Also, files in Quick Access without any local presence will now show thumbnails. Also, Microsoft has made it easier to snap the most relevant windows next to each other side by side by displaying Edge browser tabs as suggested windows in snap assist.
