Microsoft has begun rolling out Windows 11 update KB5052093, an optional update for version 24H2 that introduces new system features, usability improvements, and bug fixes, along with a controversial addition: Game Pass advertisements in system settings.
Enhanced Camera Controls and Troubleshooting Tools
With this update, Windows 11 significantly improves how cameras interact with apps. Previously, cameras were restricted to being used by a single application at a time, but with the new “Allow multiple apps to use the camera at the same time” setting (Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras > Advanced camera options), users can enable shared access across multiple apps. This enhancement is particularly useful for multitasking scenarios, such as running a video conferencing app while using another tool that requires camera input.
Another addition is a basic camera mode, designed to help users diagnose and resolve camera malfunctions. This feature is intended to bypass advanced settings that might be causing issues and allow the camera to function in a minimalistic mode, simplifying troubleshooting.
Taskbar and File Explorer Enhancements
The update also improves taskbar usability, adding a file-sharing shortcut within jump lists. When right-clicking an app on the taskbar, users can now share files directly—provided the application supports the feature.
File Explorer refinements include the ability to snooze or disable the “Start backup” reminder that appears in the address bar, helping users avoid unnecessary prompts. Additionally, Microsoft has worked on:
- Performance optimizations for folders containing large media files, ensuring smoother navigation.
- More accurate and consistent thumbnails for cloud-stored files in search results.
- A fix for a URL handling bug that sometimes redirected users to incorrect locations.
Game Pass Ads in Windows Settings
As part of its ongoing efforts to promote its subscription services, Microsoft has begun embedding Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass advertisements directly into Windows Settings. This ad appears as a banner within the Settings menu, urging Game Pass subscribers to recommend the service to others.
Currently, this feature is being rolled out gradually, so not all users will see the Game Pass ad immediately. Notably, Microsoft states that the banner will only appear if the user already has Game Pass and is signed into their Microsoft account, meaning it isn’t targeting non-subscribers—yet.
Despite Microsoft’s selective rollout, the introduction of promotional content into system settings is a controversial move, as many users prefer an uncluttered operating system without advertisements in essential menus.
Other Notable Fixes and Changes
Aside from feature additions, KB5052093 addresses multiple prior issues:
- Fixed a bug where the volume would suddenly jump to maximum when resuming from sleep mode.
- Corrected a Task Manager issue where HDDs were mistakenly identified as SSDs.
How to Get the Update
Since KB5052093 is an optional update, users need to manually install it via Settings > Windows Update, or by downloading the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Those who prefer to wait can expect these improvements to be included in a future cumulative update for Windows 11.