Today, Microsoft released the KB5055629 preview update for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2, bringing OS Builds 22621.5262 and 22631.5262. This non-security update introduces exciting features like Phone Link integration in the Start menu, new home page for File Explorer, changes to Windows Widgets, and faster zip extraction, alongside critical fixes and enhancements. Here’s everything you need to know about Windows 11 KB5055629 (Version 23H2/22H2), including how to install it.
What Is the KB5055629 Update?
The KB5055629 update is a cumulative preview update for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2, released on April 22, 2025. This is an optional update, delivers quality improvements and new features for users to test before the next mandatory security update in May 2025. Well, Windows 11 KB5055629 brings a mix of new features and fixes, with some rolling out gradually.
- File Explorer gets pivot-based curated views for easier access to Microsoft 365 content and faster performance when unzipping large sets of small files.
- Narrator now includes a speech recap feature for reviewing spoken content.
- Phone Link is expanded with Start menu integration, now allow users to call, text, and share content between devices more easily.
- Widgets see upgrades too—developers can now create interactive widgets, and users in the EEA gain support for lock screen widgets.
- Desktop icon visuals are improved for pinned packaged apps, and the Share Sheet now supports quick edits like cropping and filtering images.
A Start menu bugs affecting touch gestures and visibility with larger text sizes are resolved. It also addressed issues with SMB file sharing and USB camera sign-in on specific Intel processors. Xbox controller compatibility is improved, and the driver verifier bug during certification is fixed. The update also strengthens system security by expanding the vulnerable driver blocklist.
Microsoft noted, a known issue affects devices with Citrix SRA version 2411, which may block the security update from installing.
How to Install the KB5055629 Update
This is an optional update, you need to download and install it manually.
- Open Settings: Press Win + I or go to Start > Settings.
- Navigate to Windows Update: Select Windows Update from the left pane.
- Check for Updates: Click Check for updates. KB5055629 will appear under Optional updates.
- Download and Install: Select the update, click Download and install, and follow the prompts.
- Restart: Reboot your PC to apply the update.
Read the complete change log on official Microsoft Support – KB5055629
