- Windows 11 build 27965 brings a new Start menu and the Edit text editor for Command Prompt, removes .NET 3.5, and fixes Taskbar and video playback issues for Canary Channel users.
Microsoft is now rolling out Windows 11 build 27965 in the Canary Channel two days after releasing build 27959 in the same channel. This update is significant for Insiders with devices enrolled in this channel because it introduces the new Start menu design.
According to the official notes, build 27965 for Windows 11 introduces a redesigned Start menu as we have been seeing in the Dev and Beta Channels. It also rolls out the “Edit” command tool to edit files through Command Prompt, and pushes fixes for the Taskbar and video playback.
Furthermore, starting with this release, .NET Framework 3.5 is no longer a Windows Feature on Demand optional component.
What’s new on Windows 11 build 27965
Let’s break down the new features and changes for the Canary Channel.
New Start menu design
Beginning with this release, the company introduces the new Start menu in the Canary Channel that combines the “All” menu with the “Pinned” and “Recommended” sections into a single, fully scrollable menu.
The Start menu now has a bigger surface but dynamically resizes based on screen size, maximizing visibility.
Apps are auto-grouped by category (default) or arranged in an alphabetical grid view for easier browsing.
The menu will create a new category when at least three apps are in each category. Otherwise, they will remain in the “Other” category.
On the other hand, the grid view orders apps alphabetically, allowing for better scanning of more horizontal real estate.
On larger displays, you can see up to eight columns of apps, four columns for categories, and six recommendations.
Smaller devices may see up to six columns of apps, three columns for categories, and three recommendations.
You can also expand or collapse the “Pinned” and “Recommended” sections to view some or all the apps. You can even enable a setting always to display all apps.
Additionally, the company is introducing the ability to remove the “Recommended” section by disabling the “Show recently added apps,” “Show recommended files in Star,” “Show websites from your browsing history,” and “Show recommendations for tips” settings.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft has tested various designs before selecting this layout. The company even attempted to reintroduce Live Tiles and a layout similar to those found on Windows 10.
Finally, the Start menu includes a new button in the top-right to show or hide the mobile sidebar.
New Edit text editor for Command Prompt
Windows 11 has a new “Edit” text editor that you can use in Command Prompt. It’s a tiny (less than 250kB) command-line app that works with text files without requiring you to leave the Command Prompt to use Notepad or another graphical application. It is similar to text editors on Linux, like VIM or Nano.
The new editor is a 64-bit application and an open-source project from Microsoft. Additionally, this CLI text editor also works on Windows 10.
It includes support for mouse navigation, multiple file editing, find and replace capabilities, word wrap, and more.
Other fixes and improvements
In addition to the new Start menu, Windows 11 build 27965 is also rolling out with various fixes and improvements.
For example, this update resolves an issue where the Taskbar was incorrectly hidden when autohiding was enabled, and addresses video playback issues, causing some videos and games to appear unexpectedly red, as well as the playback of protected content in certain Blu-ray, DVD, and digital TV apps that use Enhanced Video Renderer with HDCP enforcement.
As part of the known issues, these updates have problems with File Explorer, Settings, Lock Screen, and power.
Installation process
To download and install this Windows 11 build, enroll your device in the Canary Channels 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 in 2010. With over 22 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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