Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4870 introduces customizable lock screen widgets in the EEA and new File Explorer features for work and school accounts, alongside important stability fixes.
On February 3, 2025, Microsoft released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4870 (KB5050087) for the Beta Channel, which includes several notable improvements to enhance user experience and system functionality.
Lock Screen Widgets Expansion
A major update in this build is the launch of customizable lock screen widgets to Windows Insiders in the European Economic Area (EEA). Users are now allowed to personalize their lock screens by adding, removing, and rearranging lock screen widgets such as Weather, Watchlist, Sports, and Traffic. Any widget supporting the small sizing option can be used. Customization will be accessed via Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. Microsoft shall roll it out to other regions in due course.
File Explorer Enhancements
Users that are signed in with work or school accounts (Entra ID) will see people icons under the “Activity” column on the Home page and in the “Recommended” section. Hover or click these icons to find the Live Persona Card for the person from Microsoft 365, indicating easier collaboration and access to information.
Stability and Performance Fixes
The update fixes several issues that help improve system stability:
Start Menu: The crash that was occurring for some Insiders when interacting with letters in the apps list is fixed.
File Explorer: Issues where minimized windows weren’t being rendered correctly after restoration and overall reliability have been improved with fixes for crashes on file operations.
Other Features
The high-impact background crash from sihost.exe, which was present in the previous flights, is fixed.
Known Issues
Microsoft is studying these ongoing issues.
File Explorer: Slowness to close windows using the X button, which may impact other title bar buttons.
Settings: Crashes on Home screen, though a workaround exists to access most settings directly through search on the taskbar.
Enterprise-Specific Settings: New enterprise-specific device info and accessibility preferences card display on PCs that are not managed and signed in with a Microsoft account.
Beta Channel Rollout Strategy
Microsoft continues to use Control Feature Rollout technology, first launching features to a portion of Insiders and expanding from there based on feedback. For those Insiders looking to receive the latest builds, they can do so through Settings > Windows Update. Features may be removed and will not necessarily make it beyond the Insider program.
This build highlights the focus that Microsoft is using user feedback to make Windows 11 more personalized, collaborative, and stable.
