Microsoft has released Windows 11 build 22635.3350 (KB5079387) to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel, marking the final testing phase before this optional update reaches all users. This March preview delivers significant accessibility improvements, a much-requested Smart App Control toggle, and several File Explorer fixes that address long-standing user complaints.

Accessibility Takes Center Stage

The most substantial changes in this release focus on making Windows 11 more usable for people with disabilities. Microsoft has completely redesigned Narrator's natural voices in English (United States), offering more natural intonation and improved pronunciation. The update introduces three new voice options: Aria, Jenny, and David. These voices use modern neural text-to-speech technology that sounds noticeably more human than previous Narrator voices.

Users can now preview these voices before selecting their preferred option. The Settings > Accessibility > Narrator section includes audio samples for each voice, allowing users to hear the differences immediately. This represents a significant improvement over the previous system where users had to enable a voice to hear how it sounded.

Beyond the voice improvements, Microsoft has enhanced Narrator's braille support. The update adds support for new braille displays and improves compatibility with existing devices. For users who rely on screen readers, these changes could dramatically improve their Windows 11 experience.

Smart App Control Gets User Control

One of the most controversial Windows 11 security features finally becomes user-configurable in this release. Smart App Control, Microsoft's AI-powered application blocking system, now includes an on/off toggle in Windows Security settings. Previously, users had limited control over this feature once it was enabled.

The new toggle appears in Windows Security > App & browser control > Smart App Control. Users can now disable the feature if it interferes with legitimate applications or causes performance issues. Microsoft notes that turning Smart App Control off requires a system reboot, and re-enabling it may require a clean Windows installation in some cases.

This change addresses one of the most common complaints about Windows 11's security approach. Many users reported Smart App Control blocking trusted applications or slowing down system performance during application launches. The community has been requesting this toggle since Smart App Control's initial introduction.

File Explorer Receives Critical Fixes

Microsoft has addressed several persistent File Explorer issues in this update. The most noticeable fix resolves problems with the address bar and search box losing focus when users interact with them. This bug has frustrated users since Windows 11's initial release, causing workflow interruptions when navigating folders.

The update also improves File Explorer's performance when displaying large numbers of files. Users with folders containing thousands of items should notice faster loading times and smoother scrolling. Microsoft has optimized the thumbnail generation process and reduced memory usage during file browsing operations.

Another subtle but important change improves keyboard navigation in File Explorer. The tab order now follows a more logical progression through interface elements, making it easier for keyboard-only users to navigate their file system efficiently.

Settings App Enhancements

The Windows Settings application receives several quality-of-life improvements in this release. Microsoft has reorganized some settings categories to make options easier to find. The Network & Internet section now groups related settings more logically, and the Bluetooth device management interface has been streamlined.

Users will notice improved search functionality within Settings. The search box now returns more relevant results and includes better categorization of matching settings. This addresses complaints that Settings search often failed to find options that users knew existed.

Microsoft has also fixed several bugs that caused Settings to crash or display incorrect information. The update resolves issues with the Display settings page showing wrong resolution options and problems with the Sound settings failing to detect connected audio devices.

Device Management Improvements

This release includes enhancements for enterprise device management through Windows Update for Business. Administrators gain more granular control over update deployment, including improved reporting on update status across their organization. The update also improves compatibility with mobile device management (MDM) solutions.

For all users, Windows Update itself receives interface improvements. The update history page now displays clearer information about installed updates, including better categorization of quality updates, feature updates, and driver updates. The restart scheduling options have been expanded to provide more flexibility for users who need to keep their systems running continuously.

Performance and Stability Fixes

Beyond the visible changes, KB5079387 includes numerous under-the-hood improvements. Microsoft has addressed memory leaks in several system components that could cause gradual performance degradation over time. The update also fixes a bug that caused excessive disk usage during system idle periods.

Gaming performance receives attention with fixes for DirectX-related issues that could cause stuttering or crashes in certain games. Microsoft has improved compatibility with older games that use legacy graphics APIs, reducing the likelihood of compatibility mode being required.

The update resolves a specific bug that caused the Windows taskbar to become unresponsive after extended use. Users reported this issue occurring after several days of uptime, requiring a restart to fix. Microsoft's fix addresses the underlying resource management problem that caused the taskbar to freeze.

Installation and Availability

KB5079387 is currently available only to Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel. Users can install it through Windows Update by checking for updates manually. The update requires approximately 800MB of disk space for most systems, though this may vary depending on existing configuration.

Microsoft typically releases updates from the Release Preview Channel to all users within two to four weeks, assuming no critical issues emerge during testing. This means all Windows 11 users could receive these improvements by mid-April.

The update follows Microsoft's standard servicing model for Windows 11. It will be offered as an optional update initially, then automatically installed during the next monthly security update cycle for users who haven't manually installed it. Enterprise users can control deployment through their existing update management tools.

Looking Ahead

This Release Preview update represents Microsoft's continued refinement of Windows 11's core user experience. The accessibility improvements demonstrate Microsoft's commitment to making Windows usable for everyone, while the Smart App Control toggle shows the company responding to user feedback about overly restrictive security features.

The File Explorer fixes address complaints that have persisted since Windows 11's launch, suggesting Microsoft is finally tackling some of the operating system's most annoying quirks. These changes, combined with the Settings improvements and performance fixes, create a more polished experience that should benefit all users.

As Windows 11 approaches its third anniversary, updates like KB5079387 show Microsoft focusing on refinement rather than radical change. The company appears to be listening to user feedback and addressing pain points that have accumulated since the operating system's initial release. For users frustrated with Windows 11's rough edges, this update offers meaningful improvements that enhance daily productivity.

The next major test will be how these changes perform at scale when released to all Windows 11 users. If the fixes hold up under broader usage, Microsoft may finally be turning the corner on Windows 11's reputation for instability and poor user experience decisions.