Microsoft Drops New Windows 11 23H2 Build on the Release Preview Channel

Microsoft released today the Windows 11 23H2 build 22631.4969 on the Release Preview Channel. The new bits bring various changes to taskbar jumplists, Windows Spotlight, the Settings app, File Explorer, and more.

As usual, these changes are rolling out gradually to Insiders, and they should be included in the February optional update for Windows 11 version 23H2 coming later this month. Here’s what you need to know about the new features and improvements included in the build 22631.4949:

Taskbar jumplists: You can now share files directly from a jump list on the taskbar.

Windows Spotlight: Users can now hover over a background image or click the “Learn about this picture” icon at the lower right area of the desktop to learn more about it.

Lock screen wallpaper: Clicking the “Like” icon on the lock screen will display more information about the image.

Game Pass ad in Settings: Insiders who are signed to their PCs with their Microsoft accounts may see a new referral card for a PC Game Pass subscription on the Settings home page. They can use it to invite friends and family to try PC Game Pass for free.

Narrator scan mode: Insiders can try new functions to go to the text after a link (n), jump to the start of an item (,), jump to the end of an item (.), or quickly access a list on a web page or in a document (l).

File Explorer: This update disables account-based content in File Explorer under Recent, Favorites, Details Pane, and Recommended for Entra ID accounts in the European Economic Area.

Windows 10 Insiders on the Release Preview Channel are also getting the 22H2 build 19045.5552 today. While this update brings no new features, it adds support for daylight saving time changes in Paraguay and brings up-to-date Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators.