Discover Key Features of Windows 11 Insider Build 27686: Sandbox Client Preview and More

Microsoft has released Build 27686 for members of the Windows Insider Program, specifically for those in the Canary Channel. This new update, unveiled on August 15, 2024, comes with notable features, particularly the preview of the revamped Windows Sandbox Client. This release signifies ongoing efforts to enhance the Windows 11 user experience, especially in terms of virtualization capabilities and usability improvements.

Key Features of Build 27686​

One of the standout features of this build is the addition of the Windows Sandbox Client Preview. The Windows Sandbox is a lightweight desktop environment that allows users to run applications in isolation without fearing any alterations to the underlying Windows installation. Here are some highlighted features introduced in this build:

Windows Sandbox Client Preview​

• New Updates via Microsoft Store: The Windows Sandbox Client can now be updated directly through the Microsoft Store, simplifying the update process for users.
• Runtime Enhancements: The new preview introduces several runtime features including:
  • Clipboard Redirection: Users can now redirect the clipboard between the sandbox environment and the host, allowing for smoother interactions.
  • Audio/Video Input Control: The Sandbox Client now supports control over audio and video input, giving users more flexibility in how they interact with applications.
  • Folder Sharing: Users can share folders between the host and the sandbox environment during runtime, enhancing productivity and usability.

    Command Line Support​

    Build 27686 includes an early version of command line support for the Sandbox. Users can access help information via the command wsb.exe –help, providing a foundational level of command-line interactions that may expand in future updates.

    Performance Improvements and Changes​

    In addition to the major feature introductions, Microsoft also focused on various optimizations and improvements with this build:

    Battery Life Optimization​

    Microsoft claims to have enhanced battery life for Windows 11 devices running this build. Users are encouraged to provide feedback on their battery experiences through the Feedback Hub to help the team gather insights and make further improvements.

    New VHD Management Features​

    Responding to user feedback, a detach virtual hard disk (VHD/VHDx) button has been added to the Settings page. This addition simplifies the process of detaching VHDs, making it more user-friendly.
  []Navigation: This option can be found under Settings > System > Storage > Disks & Volumes in the properties for your VHD/VHDx.

  Networking Enhancements​

  To support ongoing improvements in network performance, devices running Build 27686 may periodically conduct background network tests. These tests are designed to collect diagnostic data with minimal data usage (up to 10MB/day) and are limited to non-metered Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections.

  Storage Capacity Increase​

  A crucial update for users managing disk formats is the increase of the FAT32 size limit from 32GB to 2TB when formatting disks via the command line. This change is highly beneficial for users working with larger files and storage needs.

  Bugs Fixed​

  While new features are exciting, Microsoft is also committed to resolving past issues. The changelog for Build 27686 includes fixes for various problems: []Dev Drive: Previously, Dev Drive VHDs were not remounting automatically—a fix has been implemented. []Battery Icon Sync: Improvements have been made to ensure that the battery icon on the lock screen accurately reflects the actual battery level. []Windows Security App Bug: Fixed an issue where a broken glyph appeared when browsing networks under Firewall & Network Protection.

  Known Issues​

  Despite the enhancements, users should be aware of some ongoing challenges with this build: [][IMPORTANT NOTE FOR COPILOT+ PCs]: Users migrating to the Canary Channel from other channels may lose their Windows Hello PIN and biometric settings temporarily, but they can re-set these by clicking “Set up my PIN.” []Emoji Panel Bug: An issue persists where the emoji panel closes unexpectedly when trying to switch to certain sections.

  Implications for Windows Users​

  For Windows Forum users and members of the Insider Program, these developments within Build 27686 offer promising features aimed at improving workflows and enhancing user interaction with both the operating system and applications. The Windows Sandbox Client Preview is particularly exciting, allowing developers and advanced users to experiment with applications in a secured environment without the risk of impacting their main system.

  Looking Forward​

  Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11 through its Insider Program, gathering feedback and rolling out changes that reflect users' needs. For devs and tech enthusiasts, testing these new features will provide valuable insights into the system's direction and capabilities. The release of Build 27686 signals that Microsoft is not only committed to establishing a solid platform for current users but also positioning Windows 11 as a versatile environment for future innovations, especially in the realm of application isolation and performance.

  Conclusion​

  The rollout of Windows 11 Insider Build 27686 showcases Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to user experience within the Windows ecosystem. With new features in the Windows Sandbox Client, coupled with performance fixes and enhancements, this build represents yet another step toward a more refined Windows experience. As always, users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub, thus playing an essential role in shaping the future of Windows 11. For more details, you can read the full update on Neowin .