Whats New in Windows 10 KB5043131 Update?

Microsoft has unveiled the September 2024 non-security preview update for Windows 10, version 22H2, designed to improve user experience and address a number of bugs. This optional update, known as KB5043131, serves as a testing ground for upcoming fixes and enhancements, ensuring a smoother transition when the mandatory security updates roll out during the October 2024 Patch Tuesday cycle.

Addressing Key Issues:

This update directly tackles several user-reported problems, including:

• Microsoft Edge Unresponsiveness: The update tackles an issue causing Microsoft Edge to freeze when utilizing its IE mode, a feature allowing compatibility with older websites.

• Work Folder Synchronization: Work Folders, a tool for syncing files across devices, were failing to sync properly when Microsoft Defender for Endpoint was active. This update fixes this incompatibility.

• Media Playback Interruptions: Certain surround sound technologies were causing media playback to stop abruptly. This update resolves the bug and ensures a seamless audio experience.

Installation and Key Features:

Installing KB5043131 is straightforward. Users can navigate to the 'Settings' app, go to 'Windows Update,' and select 'Check for Updates.' The update will be flagged as optional, requiring confirmation before installing. Alternatively, users can download the update manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog.

Beyond addressing bug fixes, the September preview update introduces several notable features:

• Enhanced Start Menu: The update repositions the user's profile picture within the Start menu, and the left pane now boasts a new background color, enhancing visibility for menu items. This change is gradually rolled out to users.

• Microsoft Entra Single Sign-On (SSO): This update addresses an issue where European Digital Markets Act (DMA) required SSO prompts too often when users authenticate using a certificate.

• Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA): The update provides updated COSA profiles for specific mobile operators.

• File Explorer and Taskbar Improvements: The update resolves a bug causing Windows servers to freeze when utilizing apps like File Explorer and the Taskbar.

• Windows Update Opt-In Notifications: Users are now notified about Windows Update opt-in options upon signing in.

• Directory Enumeration: The update fixes a problem causing directory enumeration to fail if a directory contains symbolic links with long target names.

Upgrading to Windows 10 Version 22H2:

Users running older versions of Windows 10 (2004, 20H2, 21H1, or 21H2) can upgrade to version 22H2 using the KB5015684 enablement package. This package activates the features in Windows 10 22H2 that were previously inactive, as all these versions share a common core operating system with identical system files.

Known Issue:

Microsoft acknowledges a single known issue with the September 2024 KB5043131 preview update, which prevents users from changing their user account profile picture.

Windows 10 Beta Channel Rejuvenation:

The release of the September 2024 preview update coincides with a revival of the Windows 10 Beta channel, previously inactive for three years. In early June, Microsoft reopened the channel and released its first Windows 10 Beta build since 2021. This was followed by a second build released in August, focusing on addressing issues related to the Unified Write Filter (UWF) and Bind Filter Driver.

Looking Ahead:

The September 2024 non-security preview update for Windows 10, version 22H2, demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to continuous improvement and user feedback. By releasing optional updates, the company aims to ensure a smoother transition to mandatory security updates, fostering a more stable and reliable user experience. The rejuvenation of the Windows 10 Beta channel further highlights Microsoft's focus on active user engagement and feedback, paving the way for future enhancements and refinements to Windows 10.