With the release of the compiled version of Windows 11 Build 22610, Microsoft has introduced a large number of bug fixes, improvements, and some newly designed features in the new preview of the system. Given that Build 22610 will not have a “Technical Preview” watermark on the desktop, we speculate that the Redmond software giant may soon complete RTM development for Windows 11 22H2.
Microsoft once pointed out in an official blog post that the absence of the watermark in the lower right corner of the desktop does not necessarily mean that the development phase of the next feature update is over, but at least it means that we are one step closer to it.
The Redmond software giant will review the final code of Windows 11 22H2 and prepare for the next unnamed update, and Version 22H2 is said to be released earlier than the traditional October/November.
Microsoft has already pushed an update to the Dev and Beta channels that includes a ton of improvements. However, during the RTM and official push, we can expect to see more major updates and improvements.
Windows Latest pointed out that the current Windows 11 22H2 preview belongs to the Nickel development branch, and the changes are mainly reflected in many details. Major changes from earlier have been frozen, but some improvements may still appear in upcoming new releases.
In the latest preview build (Build 22610) as of May 1st, Microsoft has fixed a ton of issues with Windows 11 — including erratic taskbar behavior, various issues with File Explorer, and a weird bug.
Although some testers may experience repeated crashes of File Explorer (Explorer.exe), the system tool also receives a new colorful look (accent colors) and gives it a more consistent Windows 11 Experience.
There aren’t too many changes in terms of new features, and it’s unclear when Microsoft will introduce multi-tab support for File Explorer, but at least the company has mentioned some improvements in the release notes (like the speed of context menus/new sidebar design).
The first update to Windows 11 is also pending to bring back drag-and-drop support, as well as the ability to pin more icons in the Start menu. While actively updating, though, 22H2 is also culling some Windows 10-era features (like the calendar pop-up button/the ability to ungroup taskbar icons).
To sum up, only Windows 11 22H2 is known to bring more minor improvements than visual style/bug fixes. As for the exact release date of this Anniversary Update, maybe August or later.