Microsoft starts testing the April 2025 update with the rollout of the Windows 11 build 22631.5116 (KB5053657) in the Release Preview Channel. In this first preview, the update is available for version 23H2 as a non-security update, but it’ll eventually be available for version 24H2 with similar changes.
According to the official notes, the update KB5053657 for Windows 11 brings the Settings app text scaling support to File Explorer for dialogs like open, save, and copy wizard.
The Settings app brings the “Top Cards” to the “About” page and adds Your Accounts cards to the Home page, and for Japanese users, the “Accounts” page will show the first name first.
Also, this update rolls out the new Gamepad keyboard layout for the touch keyboard, updates the CPU usage logic in the Task Manager, and pushes various non-security fixes.
Windows 11 April 2025 update (build 22631.5116)
These are the non-security fixes and changes expected to arrive with the April 2025 update for Windows 11. In this first preview, the improvements are only available for version 23H2.
File Explorer new improvements
As part of the Windows 11 update KB5053657, File Explorer improves the text scaling support for File Open and Save dialogs and Wizard dialogs when changing the settings from Settings > Accessibility > Text size.
Settings with Top Cards
On the “About” page for the Settings app, Microsoft is now working on the “Top Cards” view at the top of the page to highlight some of the key hardware specifications, such as storage, graphics card, installed memory, and processor details.
On the “Home” page for commercial customers, the company is adding new “Your Accounts” cards that will display the accounts connected with the Windows 11 account.
Also, in the “Accounts” section, for Japanese users, the Settings app will now show the user’s first name first instead of last.
Gamepad keyboard layout
In this release, the development team is adding a new Gamepad layout for the on-screen keyboard to make it easier to navigate and type using the Xbox controller.
The new layout maps specific buttons, such as X, Y, LB, RB, LT, and others, to common keys like Backspace, Space, Left and Right, and numbers. It also introduces a slightly different keyboard design with a vertical alignment.
Taskbar with dedicated Emoji button
Microsoft is working on a new entry point to access the Emoji panel from the System Tray in the Taskbar. The option appears on the “Taskbar” settings page, and when enabled, you will notice a new icon in the System Tray, depending on the option.
For example, the “Always” option will keep the Emoji button persistent in the System Tray. On the other hand, the “While typing” option will only make the button available when using a text field or when working with a word processing or note-taking application.
Task Manager with new CPU logic
Windows 11 build 22631.5116 ships an updated version of the Task Manager that makes CPU usage information consistent. You’ll now see the same CPU workload across all pages, matching industry standards.
If you need the previous CPU value, you can show the “CPU Utility” column, which is located in the “Details” tab.
Other improvements
The update KB5053657 for Windows 11 also pushes these improvements:
- Faster File System Notifications: This update adds support for a new Filter Manager function that reduces I/O operations and speeds up directory change notifications for applications.
- Enhanced Asian Language Fonts: The addition of the Noto font family improves web browsing for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean languages, providing clearer and more modern text.
Furthermore, Windows 11 removes the suggested actions that appear when copying phone numbers or future dates.
Other fixes
In addition, Microsoft is rolling out these fixes:
- Remote Desktop: Issues preventing “Get-Help” troubleshooters from running in Remote Desktop sessions have been resolved.
- Reliable Mobile Connectivity: Corrected IOT APN settings for Connected PCs to ensure proper mobile data connections.
- Printer: Resolved an issue where printers using IHV drivers produced incorrect or unwanted text.
- File System: Fixed a system crash issue for users with profiles redirected to network VHD/VHDX drives, and it addressed a stop error that could occur during normal use with profiles redirected to network VHD/VHDX drives.
Installation process
To download and install this Windows 11 build, enroll your device in the Release Preview Channel through the “Windows Insider Program” settings from the “Update & Security” section. Once you enroll the computer in the program, you can download the build from the “Windows Update” settings by turning on the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option and clicking the “Check for Updates” button.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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