Microsoft begins testing the features expected to arrive with the October moment update for Windows 11 22H2 . The update is available as the KB5017389 (build 22621.608) in the Release Preview Channel and enables the tabs for File Explorer, Suggested Actions, Taskbar Overflow menu, and the share to more devices enhancement for the Nearby sharing feature.
In addition, the update KB5017389 includes a slew of fixes and improvements that the company announced on September 22 with the same update number but with the build number set to 22621.607.
It’s important to note that not all Insiders will see the features immediately since Microsoft will enable them gradually. In the meantime, you can use these instructions to enable tabs in File Explorer and other features.
Windows 11 22H2 October update features
These are the features available with the first moment update for the Windows 11 2022 Update.
Tabs in File Explorer
File Explorer is finally getting support for tabs. The new tabs system work like the experience in the web browser. Instead of having multiple instances of the app, you can now use one instance of the app to navigate multiple folders and drive locations. (This guide highlights all the new features and changes available with version 22H2 for File Explorer .)
File Explorer tabs (moment feature)
When you open the file manager, you will find a plus (+) button to create a new tab in the title bar. Or you can right-click a folder and select the option to open in a new tab.
When comparing the old and new designs, we can see some improvements. For instance, you can now right-click a tab to access a context menu with the options to close the current, close all others, or close tabs on the right. You can also rearrange the tabs as needed using the mouse.
File Explorer even includes some keyboard shortcuts to work with tabs. You can use the “Ctrl + T” keyboard shortcut to create a new tab, the “Ctrl + W” keyboard shortcut to close a tab, and you can use the middle button of the mouse to close a tab.
The file manager for Windows 11 also comes with a redesigned navigation pane. The new visual changes provide easy access to pinned and frequently used folders and OneDrive cloud profiles, which now reflect the user’s name associated with the account.
The known folders (Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, etc.) are no longer displayed under “This PC” to keep that view focused on the drives.
Finally, on the “Home” page, you will now be able to see suggested files and your colleagues’ actions on your shared files from your OneDrive account
Suggested Actions
Suggested Actions is a feature that brings up inline suggestions to create a calendar event or make a phone call when copying a date, time, or phone number.
Suggested actions moment feature
If you copy a phone number, the inline flyout would suggest making the call with Microsoft Teams or other apps available on the computer.
Coping a date or time will suggest creating a calendar event, and when you choose the app, an event will be created with all the information already filled in.
If this feature isn’t for you, it’s possible to disable Suggested Actions with these instructions .
Taskbar Overflow
Taskbar Overflow makes it easier to switch and launch apps when you don’t have a lot of space in the Taskbar.
Taskbar Overflow (Source: Microsoft)
When the Taskbar reaches its maximum capacity, it will automatically transition into this new Overflow mode. While in the Overflow mode, Taskbar will offer an entry point to an overflow menu that allows viewing the apps in one space.
The overflow menu features many Taskbar behaviors, including support for pinned apps, jump lists, and an extended interface. After invoking overflow, the menu will quietly dismiss once you click outside of it or navigate to an application.
Nearby sharing to more devices
As part of the October update, Windows 11 22H2 also improves the Nearby sharing feature with the use of the UDP protocol (in private networks) and Bluetooth to discover even more devices, including desktop computers.
The new features are now available for devices enrolled in the Release Preview Channel. However, the company says the update will roll out to everyone later in October. If you are still in the original version of Windows 11, you can use these instructions to upgrade to version 22H2 .
Update October 13, 2022: Microsoft is now testing the enablement package to turn on these features. The update is available through the Dev Channel as build 22621.675 (KB5019509) .
- Microsoft has identified a printer bug on Windows 11 22H2.
- The bug prevents Windows from determining some advanced printing features.
- The company is placing an upgrade block until the problem is fixed.
- You can still upgrade manually if you remove the affected printer.
If your computer is not getting Windows 11 22H2 (2022 Update) , it’s likely because there’s a compatibility problem with the printer driver. Microsoft has confirmed that the latest feature update is causing issues with some advanced printer features, and as a result, it’s placing an upgrade block until the problem is resolved.
According to Microsoft’s health dashboard page , if Windows 11 has connectivity problems with a printer using the Microsoft IPP Class Driver or Universal Print Class Driver, the system won’t be able to identify some advanced printing features. For example, two-sided/duplex printing, paper size or type settings, or resolutions higher than 300 x 300dpi.
Microsoft is recommending not to attend to upgrade manually using the Installation Assistant , Media Creation Tool , or using any other available method. However, if your device has been affected by this bug, if you must upgrade, you can remove any printer using the Microsoft IPP Class Driver or Universal Print Class Driver from the “Printers & scanners” settings page and then try the installation one more time.
If you plan to install the new version from Windows Update, note that after removing the affected printer, it can take up to two days for the update to become available for download.
On Windows 11 , you may sometimes need to find your printer’s manufacturer, model, and serial number for various reasons, including getting the proper ink cartridges or toner, replacing parts, or troubleshooting problems.
Whatever the case might be, Windows 11 (version 22H2 and higher) can show the manufacturer, printer model, serial number, and other details from the printer’s settings page in the Settings app.
This guide will teach you the steps to quickly find the printer information on Windows 11, so you don’t have to walk to the printer to check that information in the stickers, the device’s complicated menu, or using commands.
Check printer serial number on Windows 11
To determine the printer’s model and serial number on Windows 11, use these steps:
- Open Settings on Windows 11.
- Click on Bluetooth & devices .
- Click the Printers & scanners tab.
- Click on your printer to open the properties page.
- Under the “More information” section, click the Device information setting.
- Confirm the printer model number.
- Confirm the printer serial number.
- Confirm the printer manufacturer.
Once you complete the steps, the settings page will inform you of the serial and model number as well as other details, such as IP and MAC addresses, printer driver type (for example, Microsoft IPP Class Driver), and others.
This information is available starting on version 22H2. You can use these instructions to determine the version of Windows 11 installed on your computer.
