Introducing Beta Channel Release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3420.

A futuristic digital workstation showcasing the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3420 interface, with a glowing Beta Channel badge and modern gadgets on a virtual desk.

Martin Kouyoumdjian |

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3420 (Beta Channel)

The Windows Insider team has announced the release of a new Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, 22635.3420, for users in the Beta Channel. This latest build introduces a slew of enhancements and bug fixes, aimed at improving the overall experience and reliability of Windows 11.

What's New in Build 22635.3420?

This update brings several noteworthy changes to Windows 11, including:

  • Improved Taskbar Experience: The taskbar has been refined with better animations and a more responsive feel. Users will notice smoother transitions when opening, closing, or moving icons.
  • Enhanced File Explorer: File Explorer has received notable improvements, including a more efficient search function and an updated context menu that makes it easier to access frequently used options.
  • Settings App Enhancements: The Settings app continues to evolve, with this update introducing clearer navigation paths and additional personalization options.
  • Security Updates: A significant focus of this build is on security enhancements, aiming to keep users' data and devices safer from threats.

General Fixes and Improvements

Alongside the new features, Build 22635.3420 addresses a range of issues reported by Insider users, including but not limited to:

  • Fixes to the Start menu that resolves unexpected crashes.
  • Corrections to the Narrator and other accessibility features to improve usability for everyone.
  • Adjustments to the touch keyboard to ensure it appears correctly across all device types.
  • Multiple bug fixes relating to the UI across the system, including the taskbar, File Explorer, and Settings app.

Known Issues

While this release introduces various enhancements, there are known issues that users should be aware of:

  • Some users may experience difficulties connecting to Wi-Fi networks. A workaround is available via the Troubleshoot settings.
  • In certain cases, the taskbar may not render properly on secondary monitors.
  • File Explorer tabs feature, while highly anticipated, is still undergoing refinements and may exhibit performance issues.

How to Get the Latest Build

To download and install Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3420, users must be enrolled in the Beta Channel of the Windows Insider Program. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Windows 11 device.
  2. Navigate to Update & Security, then click Windows Insider Program.
  3. Opt for the Beta Channel if you haven't already, then go to the Windows Update section and check for new updates.
  4. Download and install Build 22635.3420.

This update presents an exciting step forward for Windows 11, demonstrating Microsoft's commitment to refining and improving the user experience. Beta Channel users are encouraged to download the update, explore the new features, and provide feedback through the Feedback Hub.

Please note that preview builds like 22635.3420 are part of the development process and might be unstable. It is recommended to install them on a test device rather than a primary device. For more information, visit the Windows Insider Program website.