October 23, 2024 at 03:44PM
Microsoft has released the KB5044380 Preview cumulative update for Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2, introducing seventeen changes, including a new Gamepad keyboard and remapping the Copilot key. Users can manually install it via Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update aims to enhance functionality without security fixes.
### Meeting Takeaways from KB5044380 Cumulative Update Release
– **Update Overview**: Microsoft has announced the optional KB5044380 Preview cumulative update for Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2, introducing seventeen changes, including a new Gamepad keyboard and remapping options for the Copilot keyboard key.
– **Release Schedule**:
– This update is part of Microsoft’s optional non-security preview updates, released in the fourth week of every month.
– It allows Windows admins to preview upcoming features and fixes before the next Patch Tuesday.
– **Installation Instructions**:
– Users can manually install the update via **Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates**.
– As it is optional, users must confirm installation by clicking ‘Download and install.’
– **Build Upgrades**: Post-installation, Windows 11 23H2 will display build 22631.4391, and 22H2 will show 22621.4391. It is also available for manual download from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
– **Highlighted New Features**:
1. **Copilot Key Settings**: Users can configure the Copilot key to launch different applications or open Search.
2. **Battery Usage Fix**: Addressed excessive battery consumption during Modern Standby.
3. **Microsoft Teams Fix**: Resolved issues preventing users from joining meetings via Outlook reminders.
4. **Updated Product Activation Numbers**: New phone numbers have been added for various regions.
5. **Multi-Function Printer Fix**: Fixed issues with USB connections printing unnecessary information.
– **Gradual Rollouts of New Features** (will not be available immediately):
1. **Gamepad Keyboard**: Introduces a layout for using an Xbox controller for navigation and typing.
2. **Notification Management**: Users can now disable suggestions for turning off notifications from specific apps.
3. **Start Menu Renaming**: “All Apps” is now simply titled “All.”
4. **Narrator Functionality**: New shortcut to copy last spoken text, plus automatic reading of email messages in the new Outlook.
– **Known Issues**: Microsoft has reported no known issues for this update.
– **Additional Note**: For users on Windows 11 24H2, the preview update is still pending release.
For more detailed information, a complete list of fixes can be found in the KB5044380 support bulletin.