- Microsoft updates the Windows Hello experience with new visuals that match the Windows 11 design language.
- Windows 11 build 27754 also brings shorter date and time and bell changes to the Taskbar.
- The new changes and fixes are available through the Canary Channel.
- Microsoft is now rolling out the preview build 27754 for Windows 11 in the Canary Channel with several improvements and fixes that are not tied to any specific version of the operating system.
According to the company’s official notes, Windows 11 build 27754 is overhauling the Windows Hello experience to align with the design of the operating system. Also, this update brings several changes to the Taskbar and System Tray, and Microsoft is rolling out a number of fixes.
Windows Hello with modern design
In this update, Windows 11 is updating the Sign-in screen with some visual changes if your computer is configured using Windows Hello Face, Fingerprint, or PIN. For example, as you access the screen, the system will show an animation on the icon representing the current sign-in methods to improve the experience and make it a bit easier to understand.
While on your account, build 27754 also changes the security credential user experience dialogs for passkey.
For instance, once you create a passkey, the next time you have to sign in, you will notice a new Windows Hello animation for entering your credentials and recognizing the information. Also, you can now switch between authentication options.
Although Microsoft is now promoting these new changes for the Canary Channel, the modernization of Windows Hello is already available for devices in the Beta Channel.
Taskbar and System Tray changes
Windows 11 build 27754 also expands the “Shift + Ctrl” keyboard shortcut when clicking the item from the Jump List to run it as an administrator from the Start menu or Taskbar.
Microsoft is also adding the option to show shorter dates and times in the Taskbar, which is also the new default behavior.
The bell icon will no longer show in the System Tray if the “Do not disturb” feature is enabled. In this case, you can click the date and time button to open the “Notifications” interface and view unread messages.
Finally, when hovering over apps in the Taskbar, build 27754 is now showing an improved version of the preview and animation.
Other fixes
This update also rolls out a number of fixes for the Taskbar, Registry, input, apps, and Blue Screen of Death.
Microsoft is also pushing for a fix to address problems with the System File Checker command that showed unexpected errors during scans. Also, File Explorer receives an update that fixes problems regarding RAW images not displaying thumbnails correctly, and the company is fixing a rendering issue with the search box.
The company also notes a few known issues for Copilot+ PCs and the desktop experience.
Windows 11 build 27749 for version Dev (Canary)
Microsoft was also previously rolling out Windows 11 build 27749 in the Canary Channel as a minor release with fixes and improvements. For example, the Windows Narrator now has two new features, including a new shortcut, “Narrator key + Control + X,” allowing you to copy the last spoken phrase to your clipboard.
Also, Windows Narrator will now automatically read the contents of emails in the new Outlook app, similar to how it works in the classic version.
In addition, build 27749 ships with fixes for File Explorer, Taskbar, Input, Narrator, Task Manager, Audio, and more.
Installation process
To download and install these Windows 11 builds, enroll your device in the Canary 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 who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].