Hello Windows enthusiasts! Today, we have exciting news for our Windows Insider community. Microsoft has officially released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.1330 (KB5040543) to the Dev Channel, marking a notable update in the ongoing evolution of Windows 11. This article dives into the key features, improvements, known issues, and the implications this update holds for Windows users.
A Brief Overview of Windows Insider Program
Before delving into the specifics of Build 26120.1330, let's take a moment to understand the importance of the Windows Insider Program. Launched in 2014, the program invites enthusiastic users to provide feedback and help Microsoft in shaping the future of Windows. Insiders are given early access to pre-release builds and features just a few days or weeks ahead of general availability, which allows them to play a vital role in testing and refining new functionalities. For those who may not know, the Insider Program is divided into different channels: Dev, Beta, and Release Preview. Each channel serves a specific purpose in terms of stability and the frequency of updates. The Dev Channel is mainly for enthusiasts who want to contribute by testing and providing feedback on the earliest versions of upcoming features.Key Changes and Improvements in Build 26120.1330
1. Enablement Package for Version 24H2
The biggest news attached to this build is the transition of updates in the Dev Channel to be based on Windows 11, version 24H2 through an enablement package (Build 26120.xxxx). This means feature updates will be delivered incrementally, allowing users to gradually experience changes without needing a complete system upgrade.2. Feature Toggle for Early Access
Fulfilling the requests of eager testers, Microsoft has added a toggle in the Settings under Windows Update that enables Insiders to opt-in to receive new features as soon as they are available. This user-controlled feature roll-out allows Insiders to actively participate in the testing process.3. File Explorer Enhancements
One standout addition in this build is the ability to duplicate tabs within File Explorer by right-clicking a tab. This seemingly simple feature aims to enhance productivity by allowing users to open multiple instances of the same folder quickly.4. Narrator Improvements
Improvements have been made to the Narrator's scan mode, which should provide quicker responses—especially while using Microsoft Edge or managing large documents. This enhancement underscores Microsoft's commitment to improving accessibility within Windows.5. Settings Update for Power & Battery
The Settings app has also seen updates with improvements to the Power & battery section. Users can now set their Power Mode preferences more flexibly, ensuring better performance whether on battery or plugged in.6. Taskbar Functionality Changes
For developers using the taskbar, the "End Task" option now operates differently—removing the Not Responding confirmation dialog. This streamlining will speed up the task management process for developers and power users alike.7. System Information Follows Accessibility Settings
In alignment with Microsoft's accessibility efforts, the System Info tool (msinfo32) now respects the text size settings from the Accessibility menu, making it easier for users to interact with the system info based on their preferences.Fixes for All Dev Channel Insiders
While new features are exciting, fixes are equally important. This build addresses multiple issues experienced by Insiders:- Windows Update Display Issue: A fix has been implemented for the Windows Update page that previously did not display correctly for users with certain language settings. This solution ensures smoother navigation and accessibility in updates.
Known Issues in Build 26120.1330
However, as with any pre-release build, some issues remain unresolved: - BitLocker Recovery Screen: Users may encounter an issue involving the BitLocker Recovery screen that could affect functionality.
- Windows Sandbox Launch Error: Those using Windows Sandbox might find that it fails to launch, presenting an error message (0x80370106).
- Task Manager Crashes: Navigating between different pages within the Task Manager may cause it to crash, a concern that needs addressing before wider deployment.
- Text Suggestions for Keyboards: An identified bug is causing text suggestions from hardware keyboards to concatenate unexpectedly, which can be frustrating for users relying on this feature.
Reminders for Windows Insiders
It is crucial for Insiders to remember that the features included in these builds are meant for testing and feedback purposes. Not all features will reach general users. Furthermore, localization issues are anticipated, and Microsoft encourages reporting these through the Feedback Hub. Additionally, because both the Dev and Beta channels represent parallel development paths, some features may surface in the Beta Channel before making their appearance in the Dev Channel. Users are advised to check the Flight Hub for comprehensive updates on which builds are available in each channel.Looking Ahead: Copilot in Windows
Another notable mention is the gradual rollout of Windows Copilot. This AI-powered feature is being made available to Windows Insiders across global markets, promising to enhance user experience further. Users in the European Economic Area can download the Copilot experience as an app from the Microsoft Store, marking yet another innovation in the Windows environment.Recap
In summary, Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.1330 boasts several enhancements aimed at improving user experience. The new features, including the duplicating of tabs, Narrator improvements, and better power settings, demonstrate Microsoft's commitment to user-centric design. As always, the participation of Windows Insiders is invaluable in refining these builds. Your feedback helps shape the Windows experience for millions of users worldwide. Remember to utilize the toggle for immediate updates, keep reporting issues, and make the most of the newest functionalities!
Thank you for staying updated on the latest developments in Windows 11. As always, we look forward to your feedback and contributions to the Insider community!
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions about the latest update or anything else about Windows, feel free to ask in the comments below.