The Windows 11 preview was released as part of the Windows Insider program
Microsoft is launching the first 2024 build of Windows 11, build 23612. It is available for PCs enrolled in the DEV channel of the Windows Insider program. It introduces several new features and fixes issues.
Windows 11 Build 23612 is available for a few hours and offers a richer weather experience on the lock screen. This includes dynamic and interactive updates.
A richer weather experience on the lock screen.
If you hover over the mouse cursor, clicking on the weather map will display more information. When you log in, the Edge browser can open with full forecasts about the MSN weather service. This new feature is enabled by default, but there is an option to disable it. Note that the initial tests only concern EN-US environments. This new feature is therefore not yet available for all PCs in the DEV channel.
Windows 11 Build 23612, Voice Access and Settings
Windows 11 is improving its language support. Language access is now compatible with French (France and Canada), German and Spanish (Spain and Mexico).
New languages in the Voice Access bar settings.
The first time voice access is enabled, a voice template must be downloaded. At the same time, it is possible to use all voice access functions on multiple screens, including the overlays of numbers and grids that were previously only possible on the main screen.
Mouse grid control to move the cursor to a specific point on a specific screen.
Regarding the grid overlay function, Microsoft explains
It is designed to allow you to not only interact with the screen you are currently using, but also to quickly switch to another screen. You can also drag and drop files, apps, and documents from one screen to another. After you bring up the grid overlay, you can use it to quickly switch focus to another display.
Redmond also announces support for voice shortcuts and custom commands (available in English only).
There are also some changes in the settings. The optional features listed in the Applications section have been moved to their own page in the system.
Finally, the fixes target the Start Menu, File Explorer, and Widgets. There are also known issues affecting Copilot and widgets