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Microsoft has officially rolled out the Windows 11 KB5055629 update for all users, ushering in a host of new features and improvements. With the inclusion of a Phone Link companion panel, custom widgets support for developers, and the ability to send files directly to Android phones, this update makes Windows 11 even more user-friendly and integrated. Available through Windows Update or via direct download links for offline installers, this update aims to enhance the overall functionality of Windows 11, especially for those who rely on seamless connections between their devices.
What’s New in the Windows 11 KB5055629 Update?
Windows 11 KB5055629 brings several notable changes, with the Phone Link companion panel being the most prominent. This feature, accessible directly from the Start menu, allows users to interact with their mobile devices in ways they couldnāt before. The companion panel offers more than just basic notifications and statistics ā you can now send files directly to your phone with a simple click, eliminating the need for USB cables or third-party file-sharing apps.
The update also includes several other useful improvements, such as updates to File Explorer, new features for the Windows Share app, and custom widget support for developers. Letās take a closer look at some of the standout features and changes:
- Phone Link Companion Panel in the Start Menu
This new feature makes transferring files to your Android device easier than ever. Without needing to open the Phone Link app or use a cable, users can send small to medium-sized files directly from the Start menu. The wireless connection between devices is solid enough to ensure a smooth transfer experience.
2. File Explorer Enhancements
File Explorer has received several improvements, including curated views in the Home section of the app, which will highlight files used recently within Microsoft 365. Additionally, the update has sped up the file unarchiving process, making it quicker to unzip large files that contain many small documents.
3. Improved Windows Share for Image Editing
The Windows Share app now includes an “Edit” button that allows you to quickly edit images before sharing them. This small but useful feature ensures that sensitive information can be easily obscured before sending photos or screenshots.
4. Custom Widgets for Developers
Developers can now create custom widgets to display app or website data directly on users’ boards, offering more flexibility in how information is presented.
5. Lock Screen Widgets Management
For users in the European Economic Area (EEA), Windows 11 now supports more extensive customization of lock screen widgets. You can now add, remove, or rearrange widgets to personalize the lock screenās appearance and functionality.
6. General Fixes and Enhancements
Several bugs and performance issues have been addressed in this update. For instance, the update fixes issues with taskbar focus for Arabic and Hebrew language users, as well as incorrect text size in the Start menuās Account Manager. Additionally, touch gestures within the Start menu have been improved, although the Citrix issue is still under investigation.
What Undercode Says:
The Windows 11 KB5055629 update significantly enhances the operating system’s functionality and usability, especially for users who frequently use their phones and PCs in tandem. The new Phone Link companion panel is a game-changer, providing a more seamless experience for transferring files between devices. This integration is particularly useful for those who want to avoid the hassle of using third-party apps or physical cables for file sharing.
One of the most exciting aspects of this update is its focus on simplicity and efficiency. By eliminating the need to open external apps like Phone Link or relying on physical connections, Microsoft has made it much easier to send files between a Windows PC and Android device. The wireless file transfer is efficient enough for everyday use, especially for smaller files, making this feature accessible for all types of users.
Another key improvement is the enhanced File Explorer. The addition of curated views that highlight recently accessed files from Microsoft 365 makes it much easier to stay organized and find what you need quickly. Plus, the faster unarchiving of files will save users a lot of time, especially when dealing with large archives filled with multiple files.
The improvements in Windows Share, particularly the ability to edit images before sharing them, are also a welcome change. This simple feature can save time and prevent the accidental sharing of sensitive information, which is a critical addition for those who often share screenshots or other images via Windows 11.
Custom widgets for developers open up new possibilities for app integration, while the ability to customize lock screen widgets allows for a more personalized experience, particularly in the EEA region. Overall, the KB5055629 update showcases Microsoftās continued commitment to enhancing both productivity and user experience on Windows 11.
Despite all these positive changes, there are still some areas that require attention. The Citrix issue remains unresolved, which could affect users who rely on Citrix solutions for their work. However, itās reassuring to know that Microsoft is actively investigating the problem and working on a fix.
Fact Checker Results:
- Phone Link Companion Panel: Confirmed to be part of the KB5055629 update, allowing users to send files directly from the Start menu to Android devices without the need for a USB cable.
- File Explorer Enhancements: The update speeds up file unarchiving and introduces curated views for easier access to files used in Microsoft 365.
- Widget Customization: Developers can now create custom widgets for boards, and users in the EEA region can manage lock screen widgets for better personalization.
References:
Reported By: www.windowslatest.com
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