Multi-app kiosk mode is a lockdown feature for Windows 11 that allows an IT administrator to select a set of allowable apps to run on the Windows 11 device, while all other functionalities are blocked. It is an ideal scenario in which multiple people need to use the same device.

 

With the Windows 11 Build 25169, released to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel, Microsoft introduced this feature for the IT administrators to test before it rolls out to a global set of Windows 11 users.

 

Multi-App Kiosk Mode comes to Windows 11 Build 25169

 

The Multi-app Kiosk Mode is a new feature to Windows 11 devices that will allow the IT administrator to select a set of allowable applications to run on that device. While all other functionalities are blocked, this feature will enable you to create multiple different apps and access configurations for different user types on a single device.

 

It is an ideal scenario in which multiple people need to use the same device. This can include frontline workers and retail scenarios, education, and test-taking. It features the following customizations:

  • Limiting access to Settings, except selected pages.
  • Lock down the Start menu to show only allowed apps.
  • Block toasts and pop-ups that lead to unwanted UI.

 

 

Other improvements in Windows 11 Build 25169

[General]

The changes noted in Windows 111 Build 25140 on changes to how IT admins enroll devices in the Windows diagnostic data processor configuration option are now included in this build (Build 25169 and higher). A reminder that if the documented changes are not acceptable, it is recommended to pause flighting.

[Windows Spotlight]

You can now enable Windows Spotlight on the desktop via a brand-new Windows Spotlight theme now included in the latest builds in the Dev Channel under Settings > Personalization and Settings > Personalization > Themes. Additionally, you can make your own custom themes with Windows Spotlight’s rotating images as well.

[Input]

We have updated the U.S. English (EN-US) handwriting model to be faster and more accurate. Use the updated Handwriting Panel for ink-to-text and let us know what you think.

[Settings]

Settings now support managing apps that were earlier only supported from Control Panel. This includes uninstallation of apps that have inter-dependencies (e.g., Steam and gaming apps running on Steam), and repair and modifying of Win32 apps.

[Windows Security]

The Windows Security app version is now displayed in Windows Security settings under About.

 

 

Other fixes in Windows 11 Build 25169

[File Explorer]

  • Fixed an issue leading to the Azure Information Protection context menu entry unexpectedly showing with the name Microsoft.Azip.RightClick after an upgrade.

[Taskbar]

  • Fixed an explorer.exe crash that was preventing taskbar from loading when launching Microsoft Teams meetings sometimes.
  • Fixed a couple explorer.exe crashes some Insiders were experiencing related to taskbar overflow.

[Start]

  • Fixed an issue that was removing the “More” button in Start’s Recommended section.

[Settings]

  • Fixed an issue where after using the reveal password button in the Wi-Fi section of Quick Settings, the text field might unexpectedly lose focus.

[Input]

  • We made a small tweak to improve the key repeat rate for the traditional touch keyboard layout, as well as the default touch keyboard layout, so it feels more responsive. Now it has the rate of 20 keys per second (for example, when holding down the delete key).

[Other]

  • Fixed an issue believed to be the root cause of some Insiders experiencing bug checks when opening and copying files from network locations recently.
  • Fixed an issue which could cause desynced audio when recording game play with the Xbox Game Bar.
  • Fixed an issue leading to error code 0x80004005 when using the network troubleshooter.
  • Made some adjustments to fix an issue where the scrollbar in certain places (like File Explorer) was unexpectedly wide when using high DPI scaling.
  • Fixed an issue believed to be the root cause of Windows Security saying standard hardware security wasn’t supported on devices where it was actually supported, as well as showing a warning in the taskbar but not showing any issues when Windows Security was launched. Please note, due to timing of the payload, these issues may come back after the next Windows Security update. It will go away again after a future Windows Security update.

 

Have a question? Or, a comment? Let's Discuss it below...

Thank you for visiting our website!

We value your engagement and would love to hear your thoughts. Don't forget to leave a comment below to share your feedback, opinions, or questions.

We believe in fostering an interactive and inclusive community, and your comments play a crucial role in creating that environment.