Windows 11 23H2 receives a noteworthy update with the release of KB5044380 to Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel on October 10th. This update, which brings the build number to 22631.4387, delivers a combination of new features, enhancements, and fixes aimed at improving the user experience.

New Features

Start Menu Integration with Phone Link: This feature allows Android users to seamlessly access content from their smartphones directly within the Start Menu. Users can check battery and connection status, access voicemails, calls, photos, and continue recent activities. Support for iOS devices is planned for a later release.
Gamepad Keyboard: A new keyboard layout designed for Xbox gamepads enables users to easily navigate and input text using their controller.
Notification Suggestions Control: Users gain more control over notifications with the ability to disable notification suggestions for specific apps.Personalized
Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE): The initial device setup process now offers a more tailored experience with personalized recommendations.

Fixes and Improvements

Remapping Copilot Button: Users can now configure the Microsoft Copilot button to launch MSIX-wrapped and signed applications, enhancing security and privacy.
Reduced Battery Drain: The update addresses an issue that caused excessive battery consumption in Modern Standby mode.
Microsoft Teams Meeting Join Fix: A problem that prevented users from joining Microsoft Teams meetings through Outlook meeting reminders has been resolved.
Vmswitch Stop Error Fix: This update fixes a stop error triggered by Vmswitch when using Load Balancing and Failover (LBFO) teams on virtual machines with two virtual switches.
Collector Set Shutdown Fix: An issue that prevented the Collector from shutting down correctly during boot or when exceptions occurred during collection activation has been fixed.
Updated Product Activation Phone Numbers: New phone numbers for product activation have been added for various regions.
Multifunction Printer Fix: The update prevents certain multifunction printers connected via USB from printing network command text unintentionally.
Updated Country and Operator Setting Assets (COSA): Configuration files for certain mobile operators have been updated.
Windows Hello for Business Pin Reset Fix: An issue with the “I forgot my pin” link in Windows Hello for Business not functioning correctly has been resolved.
Expanded Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist: The update expands the Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist to include additional drivers, mitigating Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks.
WebView2 Application Input Fix: A bug that prevented some WebView2 applications from detecting input from Xbox 360 and Bluetooth controllers has been addressed.
Bluetooth Memory Leak Fix: This update resolves a memory leak issue in Bluetooth that caused some applications to become unresponsive.

This update underscores Microsoft’s continued dedication to refining Windows 11 by incorporating innovative features and addressing critical issues. It highlights their focus on enhancing user productivity, security, and the overall computing experience.

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Sumit Kumar

Sumit Kumar, an alumnus of PDM Bahadurgarh, specializes in tech industry coverage and gadget reviews with 8 years of experience. His work provides in-depth, reliable tech insights and has earned him a reputation as a key tech commentator in national tech space. With a keen eye for the latest tech trends and a thorough approach to every review, Sumit provides insightful and reliable information to help readers stay informed about cutting-edge technology.