UPDATED 22:41 EDT / FEBRUARY 08 2017

APPS

Windows 10 Creators Update is now complete, with Compact Overlay, Dynamic Lock and more

Microsoft Corp. has released its latest Windows 10 Preview Build for Insiders in the Fast ring.

Build 15031 includes a new Compact Overlay feature, similar to Apple Inc.’s and Android’s picture-in-picture mode. Other features include Dynamic Lock, which automatically locks your computer when your Bluetooth-paired phone is no longer in range and other smaller updates.

At Microsoft’s Windows Developer event today, the company announced that Windows 10 Creators Update is feature complete. With all the features set for the April release, the company will focus on fixing any bugs and polishing the features before the release.

The Windows 10 Creators Update includes a range of features, including 3D support for Office apps, Paint 3D, security features for enterprises and the ability to purchase ebooks and read them on Microsoft Edge, new gaming features and more.

If you are part of the Windows Insider program you can go to PC settings > Update and recovery > Preview builds > click the “Check Now” button.

Note: With any releases there are known issues and bugs, for a full list of issues discovered so far in Build 15031 read the release notes.

Compact Overlay window

In the latest Windows 10 Preview Build, Microsoft is introducing Compact Overlay window, allowing users to watch videos in the corner of their screen while continuing to work on another app.

Apple launched picture in picture mode with iOS 9 in 2015 while Google Inc. followed with the feature with the launch of Android Nougat last year.

Microsoft’s Compact Overlay feature will be available for all Universal Windows app developers. Built-in apps like Skype and Movies & TV will also support the new feature allowing you to multitask.

Dynamic Lock

Dynamic Lock allows users to pair their phone via Bluetooth to their personal computer. When it detects that the paired phone has moved away it will automatically lock the PC after 30 seconds.  

To enable Dynamic Lock, pair your phone with your PC via Bluetooth. Then go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > toggle Dynamic Lock to On.

Note: Microsoft has stated in its release notes that it is aware of an issue preventing PCs on Build 15031 from successfully pairing devices via Bluetooth. The Settings app crashes when you go to Settings > Devices. Trying to use the Bluetooth quick actions from Action Center also doesn’t work.

Additional updates

windows-10-new-share-iconChange to the share icon

As part of the latest build, Microsoft has also updated it share icon (new version pictured right) to an icon that is more recognizable and fits better with its function. Apps that used the “share” font glyph in Segoe MDL2 assets should receive the update automatically.

Support for Game Bar extended to more games

Game Bar allows users to capture a recording or screenshot. In the last build, Microsoft announced 17 additional games that would receive support for Windows Game Bar. In Build 15031, the company has added support for an additional 52 games, including F1 2016 and Grand Theft Auto V.

To access Game Bar, press WIN + G.

Images courtesy of Microsoft

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