Windows 11 Build 27783 Released with Visual Updates in the Canary Channel

Microsoft has officially launched Windows 11 build 27783 within the Canary Channel of the Windows Insider Program, introducing a variety of visual enhancements for key features such as File Explorer, Magnifier, and the Settings app.

Unveiling New Features in Windows 11 Build 27783

As detailed in the official announcement, this build showcases significant updates for devices participating in the Canary Channel.

Enhanced File Explorer with a New Shared Tab

With this update, Windows 11’s File Explorer reimagines its “Home” page by incorporating a new “Shared” tab. This tab conveniently displays files shared with you via platforms like email and Teams chat, streamlining your accessibility to shared resources.

File Explorer Home with Shared tab — File Explorer Home featuring the new Shared tab / Image: Mauro Huculak

This feature is accessible to regular users with a Microsoft account as well as commercial clients utilizing a Microsoft Entra ID account for login.

Magnifier’s New Zoom Features

The Magnifier has also been upgraded with revamped functionality that includes new buttons: one for resetting zoom to fit the screen and another for reverting to the last zoom level. Additionally, a handy keyboard shortcut, CTRL + ALT + Minus, has been added to allow users to toggle between their current zoom level and a 1X zoom quickly.

Magnifier new buttons — New buttons added to the Magnifier interface / Image: Mauro Huculak

Settings App Introduces Administrator Protection

A critical change in build 27783 necessitates user authentication via an Administrator Protection prompt to access the “For developers” section or modify settings such as enabling “Developer Mode.”

When Administrator Protection is enabled on Windows 11, you must authenticate once per session for a group of settings. This includes tasks like switching to Windows Hello for password authentication on the “Sign-in” options page. Every change to specific advanced settings requires re-authentication, ensuring enhanced security.

Key Bug Fixes in the Update

This build addresses various operational bugs within the system, including:

Taskbar: Ensures preview windows reliably appear when hovering over Taskbar icons.
Input Method: Fixes make the Pinyin IME avoid automatically switching to English while using the “ALT + Tab” shortcut.
Window Management: Resolves issues that caused app freezes when utilizing “ALT + Tab” between apps.
Graphics: Prevents crashes in the Settings app when accessing Display > Graphics.
Remote Desktop: Resolves problems leading to “MTSC.exe” failures and display errors.

Additionally, performance improvements include fixing a memory leak within “explorer.exe.” The reliability of the shutdown /r /fw command has also been enhanced.

How to Install Windows 11 Build 27783

To install this new Windows 11 build, you first need to enroll your device in the Canary Channel by navigating to the “Windows Insider Program” settings located under “Update & Security.” After enrolling, you can initiate the download by selecting “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” within the “Windows Update” settings and then clicking on the “Check for Updates” button.

Additional Insights

1. What is the Canary Channel in the Windows Insider Program?

The Canary Channel is a testing phase where Microsoft releases the earliest builds of Windows 11 to users who want to experience the latest features before widespread availability. It often includes cutting-edge changes and potential bugs.

2. How can I revert to a previous build of Windows 11 if I encounter issues?

If you experience difficulties after installing a new build, you can roll back to a prior version of Windows by going to Settings > System > Recovery and selecting the option to revert to a previous build, provided that you’re within the rollback window of 10 days.

3. Are there known issues with build 27783 that I should be aware of?

As with any early release, users may encounter occasional bugs or performance issues. Refer to the official Microsoft blog for remaining known issues and workarounds, as the Canary Channel is designed for testing and may not stabilize until the final version is released.

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