Windows 11 Build 27982 Introduces New Lock Screen Features (Canary)

Windows 11 build 27982 enhances widgets for the Lock Screen and Desktop while introducing the Drag Tray feature for file sharing within the Canary Channel.

Microsoft has launched Windows 11 build 27982 within the Canary Channel, revamping the widget experience on the Lock Screen to align with functionalities found in other channels. This build also includes a new Desktop dashboard equipped with widgets and incorporates the Drag Tray feature designed for streamlined file sharing.

As detailed in the official update, this version not only addresses several general issues but also highlights known bugs affecting the Start menu and the device’s sleep and shutdown operations.

What’s New in Windows 11 Build 27982

This preview build introduces several significant updates worth noting.

Updated Widgets for the Lock Screen and Desktop

With the rollout of build 27982, Microsoft has phased out the old “Weather and more” settings in favor of new “Widgets” settings. These updates enable users to manage which widgets appear on the Lock Screen, allowing for greater customization.

Updated Lock Screen Widgets settings / Image: Mauro Huculak

Additionally, a redesigned Widgets dashboard is being introduced. This new design features a left navigation bar that clearly distinguishes your widgets from the “Discover”feed.

New Widgets board for 2025 — New Widgets dashboard for 2025 / Image: Mauro Huculak

Introducing the Drag Tray for File Sharing

Another notable addition in this build is the Drag Tray, a new feature that appears as a flyout at the top of the screen, providing various options for file sharing across apps. Users can simply drag and drop individual files into the Drag Tray, with an option to access the “Share” interface through a “More”selection.

It’s important to note that this feature is limited to individual files; users cannot share multiple files, folders, or zipped containers in this manner.

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Additional Fixes and Improvements

This preview build also includes several bug fixes and improvements, such as:

Resolved a crash triggered by IME interactions in Microsoft Visio.
Addressed the 0x0 error code impacting select gaming experiences.
Fixed repeated crashes of explorer.exe following extended uptime without rebooting.
Corrected display issues present in multiline text boxes in certain applications post-update.

However, users should be aware of ongoing issues, including misbehavior of the sleep and shutdown functions, alongside unexpected scrolling in the Start menu.

How to Download Preview Build 27982

To acquire this latest version of Windows 11, users must enroll their devices in the Canary Channel via the “Windows Insider Program” settings located in the “Update & Security” section. After enrollment, you can download the build through the “Windows Update” settings by enabling the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option and clicking the “Check for Updates” button.

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