Windows 11 KB5031455, released in October 2023, is an optional update for PCs running the 22H2 version of Windows. It includes various features enabled by default, such as Copilot and taskbar ungrouping, collectively known as ‘Moment 4’. Microsoft has made direct download links available for offline installation of Windows 11 KB5031455.

Though designated as an optional update, Windows 11 KB5031455 will not automatically download or install. However, you can manually click the “Download and install” option to install it immediately. If you skipped the Moment 4 update on September 26, this update will automatically include it. Even if you already have the Moment 4 update installed, Microsoft has confirmed additional improvements in this release.

If you prefer, you can choose to skip optional updates and wait until the next Patch Tuesday, which is scheduled for November 2023. This update, known as the 2023-10 Cumulative Update Preview for Windows 11 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5031455), will advance the OS build to Windows 11 Build 22621.2506.

To download Windows 11 KB5031455, you can visit the Microsoft Update Catalog, where all cumulative updates are published for offline download. Once there, identify the supported version and variant of Windows 11, and click the ‘Download’ button to open a pop-up window containing the link to the .msu installer.

New features introduced in the October 26, 2023 update for Windows 11 (Moment 4) include:

1. Copilot in preview: Bing-powered AI functionality has been expanded to work with more installations. By clicking the Copilot button on the taskbar, users can access the AI on the right side of the display alongside other apps. Windows Copilot offers interactive options for settings, screenshots, clipboard functions, and more. It also enables users to create images using DALL-E, remove backgrounds from images via Paint, take screenshots, open apps, analyze available documents, and more.

2. Start menu: Users can now hover over files in the recommended section of the Start menu to see a quick preview view thumbnail. Note that not all files will have this feature, but it will work with common file types such as pictures and texts.

3. Taskbar, system tray, and notifications: Finally, users have the ability to ungroup apps on the taskbar and show full labels for their names. This functionality is similar to how ungrouping and labeling worked in previous versions of Windows.

4. File Explorer: Windows 11 KB5031455 brings a new version of File Explorer with a redesigned home page and modernized address bar. However, drag and drop functionality is no longer supported.

In addition to the Moment 4 features, Windows 11 KB5031455 includes several improvements, such as an enhanced digital handwriting and inking experience. Microsoft has introduced a new Ink experience that works within Windows Copilot’s text box, offering improved accuracy and gestures for text removal or selection, as well as line joining and splitting. Currently, these improvements only work with English (U.S.), but Microsoft plans to add support for more languages in future updates.

Furthermore, the KB5031455 update adds a “System Components” page to Windows 11’s Settings. All system components, previously located under Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, have been relocated to this dedicated page under Settings > System.

The search box in Windows 11 now features a new highlight gleam animation that directs users to Bing.com’s showcase page.

Regarding the Windows 11 Build 22621.2506 update, it addresses various performance-related issues, including a memory leak bug. Microsoft has also resolved issues affecting applications and tools, such as fontdrvhost.exe, ctfmon.exe, TextInputHost.exe, Microsoft Store, Outlook, robocopy, and more. Additionally, improvements have been made to cellular settings, Windows Firewall Profile, the search box experience, and various other aspects.

With these enhancements and fixes, Windows 11 KB5031455 aims to provide users with a smoother and more user-friendly experience.