Windows 11 Build 22635.5160 Introduces Enhanced Narrator, New Copilot Features, and Additional Updates
New Features in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.5160
Microsoft has released a new build of Windows 11 for Insiders in the Beta Channel, specifically Build 22635.5160 (KB5053654). This update includes several enhancements aimed at improving user experience, particularly focusing on accessibility, Copilot functionalities, and general usability. Let’s take a closer look at the newest features and improvements introduced in this build.
Enhancements to Narrator
One of the significant updates in this build is the introduction of a feature called Speech Recap in the Narrator tool. This update aims to make Narrator even more beneficial for users who rely on it daily, such as those with visual impairments. Below are some key aspects of this feature:
- Speech Recap Feature: This new functionality allows users to view a history of what Narrator has spoken. You can quickly access spoken content and live transcriptions using simple keyboard shortcuts.
- Accessing Speech Recap: Users can open the Speech Recap window by pressing
Narrator key + Alt + X, which displays the last 500 strings that Narrator has spoken. - Keyboard Shortcuts:
Control + Windows key + Enter: Toggle Narrator on or off.Narrator key + X: Hear the last spoken phrase again.Narrator key + Control + X: Copy the last spoken phrase to the clipboard.Narrator key + Alt + X: Open the Speech Recap window for history and live transcription.
Benefits of Live Transcription
The live transcription feature is particularly beneficial for:
- Assistive Technology trainers and educators supporting visually impaired students.
- Professionals who are hard of hearing and prefer to use Narrator’s functionalities.
Users can arrange the Speech Recap window on their screens, allowing them to monitor what Narrator says without interrupting their workflow.
Improved Copilot Experience
This build also enhances the Copilot feature for Windows users. Here’s what’s new with Copilot:
- Accessibility: You can now activate Copilot by simply pressing
Win + C. There are options to customize this experience through the Settings menu. - Press to Talk: Users can engage in conversation with Copilot by holding the Copilot key or
Win + Cfor 2 seconds. The conversation automatically ends if there’s no interaction for a few seconds. - Ongoing Updates: Press to talk functionality is gradually rolling out, ensuring a smooth user experience.
Windows Share Functionality Boost
Another notable improvement in this build is to the Windows Share feature:
- Image Editing: Users can now edit images directly within the sharing window. This includes options for cropping, rotating, and applying filters to images before sharing them, enhancing the overall sharing experience.
New Settings FAQ Section
Microsoft has added a dedicated FAQs section under Settings > System > About. This feature helps users find answers to common questions about their PC and Windows 11 without difficulty. This resource is designed to provide quick insights about system configuration, performance, and compatibility.
Ongoing Fixes and Known Issues
As part of the update, Microsoft has also addressed several bugs:
Fixes Include:
- Start Menu Delays: Resolved issues regarding delays in app icons displaying in grid and category views post-installation.
- Desktop Icons: Updated the appearance of packaged app icons on the desktop for better visibility.
Known Issues:
Despite the fixes, some known issues persist including:
- Start Menu Context Menu Flicker: Users may notice a flicker when right-clicking an app in the new grid view.
- Widgets Availability: In the European Economic Area, some users might temporarily see the weather widget unavailable.
- Narrator Crashes: Users experiencing crashes should restart their PC or use a secondary screen reader for support.
For more detailed information, you can check the official announcement by Microsoft here.
This new build reiterates Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing user experience by incorporating feedback and adding useful features that cater to a diverse user base.
