Windows 11 Updates KB5044388 and KB5044386 Introduce New Clock App and Preview of Chinese Font

• Microsoft has released build 26120.1930 (KB5044388) for the Dev Channel and build 22635.4300 (KB5044386) for the Beta Channel.
• These updates introduce new capabilities for changing the Copilot key action, a revamped Sandbox application, and enhanced security measures for Windows Search.

Microsoft is currently deploying two new preview versions of Windows 11, namely build 26120.1930 (KB5044388) in the Dev Channel and build 22635.4300 (KB5044386) in the Beta Channel, which come equipped with several enhancements and additional features.

As stated in the official announcement dated October 4, 2024, the Dev Channel preview (build 26120.1930) now boasts the latest iteration of Windows Sandbox, which can be updated from the Microsoft Store and includes new functionalities. Additionally, this update introduces a new functionality allowing users to modify the Copilot key action for keyboards that feature this key.

Conversely, build 22635.4300 in the Beta Channel brings forth a new security enhancement called Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC) for Windows Search. Both preview builds available to Insiders also incorporate a new simplified Chinese font (Simsun-ExtG), featuring 9,753 ideographs compatible with Unicode Extensions G, H, and I.

Highlights of Windows 11 build 26120.1930 (Dev)

Testers in the Dev Channel will experience the following updates:

Customizable Copilot Key

The update KB5044388 introduces a new feature on the “Text input” settings page called “Customize Copilot key on the keyboard” . This option allows users to alter the function of the Copilot key on keyboards that support it.

Initially, the purpose of the Copilot key was to facilitate direct access to the chatbot. However, after Microsoft’s shift in focus regarding AI on Windows, the Copilot integration was replaced by the Windows Copilot Runtime, which incorporates over 40 different AI models to deliver enhanced functionality beyond just the Copilot chatbot features.

As a result, users can now customize the functionality of this key. If you are using a compatible keyboard, navigate to Settings > Personalization > Text input to use the “Customize Copilot key on the keyboard” feature for changing its action—whether to open Search, launch a specific application, or disable the key entirely.

Windows Sandbox Enhancements

The Windows Sandbox now receives updates directly from the Microsoft Store. New features include clipboard redirection, audio, video input control, and the capability to share folders with the isolated version of Windows 11, all accessible via the menu in the top-right corner.

This release also addresses issues affecting dual boot configurations where the boot menu was not displaying correctly.

It’s worth noting that while this build includes some known issues, such as problems with the start menu and installation failures marked by the error 0x800f0983.

Highlights of Windows 11 build 22635.4300 (Beta)

The Beta Channel preview primarily adds one standout feature: the ability for Windows Search to utilize “IFilters” within Less Privileged App Containers (LPAC). This isolation technology minimizes permissions more so than traditional app containers, enhancing search security by reducing risks associated with compromised processes.

This update also resolves several issues with File Explorer and includes known problems related to the Start menu and Live Captions.

In addition to operating system changes, with KB5044388 and KB5044386, Microsoft has introduced a new Clock app, featuring countdown and timer clocks integrated into the Widgets board.

How to Install

To download and install these Windows 11 builds, register your device in the Beta and Dev Channel via the “Windows Insider Program” found under “Update & Security” settings. Once you have enrolled, access the “Windows Update” settings to download the build by enabling the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option and clicking the “Check for Updates” button.

Keep in mind that the builds in the Dev Channel pertain to version 24H2 development, while those in the Beta Channel are part of version 23H2 development. However, these features are anticipated to be included in the latest version of the operating system.

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