📢 Windows 11 Canary Build 25977 improves Bluetooth LE Audio, SMB over QUIC, and more

What's new and improved in Windows 11 Build 25977?

1. An Evolution in Accessibility with Bluetooth® LE Audio

A major highlight of Build 25977 is its focus on improving accessibility. Microsoft has incorporated support for the latest Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio (LE Audio) technology, making the OS more accommodating for those with hearing impairments.

Key Features:

• Direct Pairing: Users with hearing aids equipped with LE Audio can now pair their devices directly with their Windows PCs.
• Stream Audio & Calls: These hearing aids can stream audio and take calls on PCs supporting LE Audio.

Anticipate more from this front: Microsoft has teased that upcoming releases will introduce additional capabilities, including the ability to control audio presets for hearing aids directly from within Windows settings.

2. Taking the Reins on Location Services

In an era where user privacy is paramount, Microsoft is introducing a range of controls to give users a tighter grip on their location data.

Key Features:

• Wi-Fi Access Control: Users can now control which apps have access to the list of Wi-Fi networks around them.
• Streamlined Location Sharing: A prompt will now appear the first time an app tries to access your location or Wi-Fi data, streamlining the process.
• Increased Visibility: Once permissions are granted, any app that utilizes location or Wi-Fi information will be displayed under 'Recent activity' on the Location page. Moreover, a location icon will be visible in the taskbar when the app is active.

3. Enhancing Security with SMB over QUIC Client Access Control

Microsoft's determination to bolster security shines through with the refinement of the SMB over QUIC feature.

Key Features:

• Client Access Control: Administrators now have the authority to dictate which clients can access SMB over QUIC servers.
• Enhanced Connection Protections: This adds an additional layer of protection for SMB over QUIC connections.

However, to leverage this feature, both the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25977 and a Windows Server Insider Preview Build 25967 (or higher) running in a VM are required.

End Notes

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25977 is a testament to Microsoft's ongoing commitment to user experience, security, and accessibility. With each build, Windows inches closer to delivering an operating system that is not only intuitive and feature-rich but also sensitive to the diverse needs of its global user base. As always, Windows Insiders play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the platform, and with releases like this, the future looks promising.