Explore Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27686: New Features & Fixes

Hello, Windows enthusiasts! Today, we are diving into the details surrounding the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27686 on the Canary Channel. This latest build brings forth a series of exciting features, notable changes, and important fixes that both developers and general users should be aware of.

What’s New with Build 27686​

Windows Sandbox Client Preview​

One of the most significant enhancements in this build is the introduction of a revamped Windows Sandbox Client Preview. Now, this feature is updated directly through the Microsoft Store, streamlining the user experience. Key features of the Windows Sandbox Client Preview include:

• Runtime Clipboard Redirection: Allows for easy transfer of clipboard data between the sandbox and the host system.
• Audio/Video Input Control: Users can manage audio and video inputs more efficiently.
• Folder Sharing with Host: You can now share folders with the host while the sandbox is running, a feature accessible via the newly introduced "..." icon located at the upper right of the app. Additionally, an early command-line version of the sandbox is available. Users can type the command wsb.exe –help to explore its functionalities further.

  Changes and Improvements​

  This release comes with various improvements aimed at enhancing performance and user experience:
• Battery Life Optimization: With an eye on maximizing efficiency, optimizations have reportedly been made to battery life on devices running Build 27686+. Insiders are encouraged to provide feedback via the Feedback Hub, especially if they notice discrepancies in expected battery performance.
• Settings Update: Based on user feedback, a new button for detaching Virtual Hard Disks (VHDs and VHDx) has been added under Settings > System > Storage > Disks & Volumes. This change aims to simplify the detachment process for users.
• Networking Improvements: To evaluate network performance, the system may perform background tests which will use only a small data amount (up to 10MB per day). These tests will be limited to Ethernet and non-metered Wi-Fi connections on PCs running Build 27686 and higher.
• Storage Enhancement: A significant increase in the FAT32 size limit from 32GB to 2TB when formatting disks via the command line (format command) represents a noteworthy upgrade for users dealing with larger files.

  Bug Fixes​

  Numerous fixes have been included in this build, addressing various issues encountered in previous versions:
• Dev Drive: Fixed a bug where Dev Drive VHDs did not automatically re-mount when their associated volume was brought back online.
• Lock Screen: Work has been carried out to ensure that the battery icon displayed on the lock screen accurately reflects the actual battery level.
• Windows Security App: Corrected a display issue within the app that showed a broken icon next to network names in the Firewall & Network protection section.
• Settings Interface: Resolved issues in the Settings interface where buttons were improperly aligned or unresponsive under certain configurations.

  Known Issues​

  As with any new build, users need to be aware of current known issues. For instance:
• If you are joining the Canary Channel on a new Copilot+ PC, there might be complications with the Windows Hello PIN and biometrics due to error code 0xd0000225. Users experiencing this issue will have to set up their PIN again.
• Ongoing work is also being done to resolve a bug causing the emoji panel to close unexpectedly during use.

  Reminders for Windows Insiders​

  It is essential for users in the Canary Channel to keep in mind that these builds represent cutting-edge development changes and may not correspond directly with any stable release of Windows. Here are a few reminders:
• Features included in these builds may be experimental and subject to change or removal based on feedback.
• Many of these updates will be rolled out using Control Feature Rollout technology, starting with a selective group of Insiders and expanding as feedback is collected.
• Language localization may not be complete for features that are still in development, so any localization issues should be reported through the Feedback Hub.

  Conclusion​

  The release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27686 marks another significant step towards refining the Windows experience for developers and dedicated users. With new functionality in Windows Sandbox, diverse improvements in battery life and settings, as well as various bug fixes, this build aims to enhance usability and functionality for all users. Windows Insiders are encouraged to share their experiences and feedback, which is invaluable for further refining the operating system before broader rollout. For those interested in exploring these changes firsthand, ensure to keep your system updated and provide insights through the Feedback Hub. As always, the community is encouraged to discuss their experiences and findings in the forum threads dedicated to Windows updates and feature rollouts. Thanks for reading this overview of the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, and stay tuned for more updates from the Windows Insider Program!