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Windows 11 Update KB5040527 - Enhancements and Key Features

7/28/2024

Windows 11 Update KB5040527: Enhancements and Key Features

On July 25, 2024, Microsoft released the KB5040527 update for Windows 11, bringing a host of new features and improvements to enhance user experience and system stability. This update is available for both Windows 11 version 22H2 and 23H2, with OS Builds 22621.3958 and 22631.3958 respectively.

Key Features and Improvements

  1. Start Menu Enhancements:

    • Drag and Pin Apps: Users can now drag apps from the Pinned section of the Start menu and pin them directly to the taskbar.
    • Improved Navigation: When the taskbar has keyboard focus (WIN + T), pressing a letter will navigate to the app starting with that letter. This feature enhances accessibility and efficiency.

  2. Taskbar Improvements:

    • End Task Option: The “End Task” option has been updated to no longer show a “Not Responding” dialog before stopping a task. This streamlines the process of ending unresponsive tasks.

  3. File Explorer Updates:

    • Duplicate Tabs: Users can now right-click a tab in File Explorer to duplicate it, improving multitasking capabilities.
    • Bug Fixes: The update addresses several issues, including memory leaks when interacting with archive folders and crashes when browsing within File Explorer.

  4. Nearby Sharing:

    • Enhanced Functionality: For nearby sharing to work, both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be enabled. If they are off, Windows will prompt users to turn them on.

Installation and Availability

The KB5040527 update is available as an optional preview update. Users can download and install it via Windows Update. It’s important to note that this update does not include security updates but focuses on enhancing system functionality and user experience.

Conclusion

The KB5040527 update for Windows 11 introduces significant improvements to the Start menu, taskbar, and File Explorer, making the operating system more user-friendly and efficient. By addressing various bugs and enhancing existing features, Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11, ensuring a smoother and more productive experience for its users.