Microsoft has rolled out a new preview build for Windows 11 Insiders, and this one packs a series of impactful updates. Build 26120.3291 (KB5052070) is now available in both the Dev and Beta Channels, specifically targeting users with Copilot+ PCs. In this detailed overview, we break down the new features—most notably the enhanced Windows Search that now supports cloud photo integration—along with an array of fixes and improvements designed to elevate your Windows 11 experience.
Key Takeaways:
With a robust suite of features and refinements, Windows 11 Dev Build 26120.3291 stands as a testament to Microsoft’s ongoing effort to intertwine convenience, innovation, and stability. Stay tuned for further updates, and happy testing!
Source: Neowin https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-dev-build-261203291-is-out-with-photos-support-in-windows-search-and-more/
Enhanced Windows Search: Bringing Your Cloud Photos to the Forefront
One of the headline features in this build is the revamped Windows Search. Microsoft has upgraded the taskbar search box so that it now not only finds local files but also scours your cloud storage for photos. Here’s what you need to know:- Descriptive Photo Search: Simply type descriptive queries like “European castles” or “summer picnics” into the Windows Search box, and the system will pull up photos from your cloud storage alongside locally stored images.
- Integrated Results for Personal Accounts: If you’re signed into OneDrive with your personal Microsoft account, expect to see a seamless mix of cloud and local images. This unified approach is designed to make retrieving your favorite photos as intuitive as a casual search.
- Work/School Account Considerations: For those using work or school accounts (Entra ID), the experience is slightly different—search results will display exact keyword matches within the text of your cloud files but won’t yet include photos.
- Future Third-Party Support: Microsoft has also indicated that third-party cloud providers will be supported soon, with documentation expected in upcoming releases.
Broader Build Enhancements and Key Fixes
Beyond the exciting Windows Search improvements, Build 26120.3291 introduces several updates intended to refine overall system performance and usability. Here’s a closer look:1. Recall (Preview) Improvements
- What's New?
The Recall experience, which allows Windows Insiders on version 24H2 to save and revisit snapshots of their system state, has seen notable updates. In this build, previous snapshots are automatically deleted to make way for new ones. - Known Caveats:
Some Insiders have reported issues with Recall not automatically saving snapshots. If you encounter a message prompting you to “Make sure Recall is saving snapshots,” a simple reboot may resolve the glitch. The ability to toggle Recall on or off via “Turn Windows features on or off” remains available as Microsoft fine-tunes this functionality.
2. Transition from MSDT to Modern Troubleshooting
- Deprecation Notice:
As Microsoft phases out the Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool (MSDT), troubleshooting links traditionally found in the Control Panel are now redirected to Settings > System > Troubleshoot. This transition emphasizes Microsoft’s direction toward a streamlined, modern settings interface.
3. Bug Fixes and Performance Optimizations
A host of bug fixes have been integrated into this build to enhance stability and performance for Copilot+ PCs and the broader Windows 11 ecosystem:- Live Captions & Real-Time Translation:
Early issues causing crashes on the first launch of live captions or during language-switching scenarios have been addressed. This means a smoother, more reliable user experience for accessibility features. - File Explorer Improvements:
Several fixes have been applied to improve File Explorer: - The address bar bug—where opening File Explorer from a command line resulted in an empty address bar—has been resolved.
- Multi-file selection in the “Recommended” section is now more reliable, ensuring smoother navigation and management of files.
- Graphics Adjustments:
An issue affecting the correct loading of color profiles after waking your PC from sleep has been fixed, ensuring more consistent display performance and color accuracy. - Remote Desktop Enhancements:
Remote Desktop now properly leverages UDP as well as TCP, enhancing connectivity and potentially decreasing latency for remote sessions.
Known Issues: What to Expect and How to Work Around Them
No preview build is without its quirks, and Build 26120.3291 comes with its share of known issues. Here’s what Insiders should keep an eye on:- Incorrect Build Version Post-Reset:
After performing a PC reset (via Settings > System > Recovery), some users may see the build version displayed as 26100 rather than the actual 26120. Rest assured, this is a cosmetic glitch that doesn’t hinder receiving future Dev Channel updates. - Recall Snapshot Glitches:
If you encounter issues with Recall—such as the system not saving snapshots despite the setting being enabled—a reboot is typically recommended. Microsoft is actively working on a fix to perfect this experience. - Photos and Paint App Actions:
A reminder for users: ensure that you have the latest updates for the Photos and Paint apps from the Microsoft Store if you notice that certain image-related actions are not appearing as expected.
Step-by-Step Guide: Testing the New Windows Search Features
For those eager to try out the improved cloud-based photo search, here’s a concise guide to get you started:- Ensure Your Copilot+ PC is Plugged In
- During the initial indexing process, having your PC connected to power is crucial for optimal performance.
- Verify Your OneDrive Account
- Sign in using your personal Microsoft account to experience the full integration of cloud photos and local images. If you’re using a work or school account, be aware that the current build limits display to text matching.
- Initiate a Search Query
- Click the Windows Search box on your taskbar.
- Enter descriptive keywords like “beach sunsets” or “winter landscapes” to see a blend of local photos and cloud results.
- Monitor Indexing Status
- Check your indexing status under Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows to ensure that your system has completed the necessary index updates.
- Provide Feedback
- As with all Insider builds, your feedback is invaluable. Report any inconsistencies or bugs through the Insider feedback hub.
What Does This Mean for Windows Insiders and the Industry?
This build—and the exciting Windows Search integration in particular—marks a significant step forward in Microsoft’s drive towards unified, intelligent search experiences. By blurring the line between local and cloud content, Microsoft is addressing a common user frustration: the inability to locate files scattered across multiple storage locations with a single, intuitive query. Some broader implications include:- Enhanced User Experience:
The integration of cloud photo search streamlines the process of finding content, reducing the friction often faced by users juggling both local and cloud repositories. - Competitive Positioning:
With similar improvements echoing the refined search experiences in other operating systems, Microsoft is clearly positioning Windows 11 as a forward-thinking, user-centric platform. - Synergy with AI Technologies:
The ongoing enhancements across Copilot+ experiences, combined with features like intelligent text actions powered by secure cloud-based processing (with plans for local moderation in the future), show a commitment to integrating AI-driven improvements into everyday computing. This unified approach not only boosts productivity but also sets a new standard for what users expect from their operating system’s search capabilities.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Future of Windows 11
Windows 11 Dev Build 26120.3291 is more than just an incremental update—it represents Microsoft’s vision for a cohesive, cloud-integrated ecosystem where every search, tune, and task is smarter and more accessible. Whether you’re an IT professional, a casual user, or a Windows Insider passionate about early testing, these enhancements are designed to make your daily computing smoother and more intuitive.Key Takeaways:
- Cloud Photo Search Revolution:
Use natural language queries to retrieve photos from your OneDrive along with local images. - Robust System Enhancements:
From Recall improvements to bug fixes in File Explorer, live captions, graphics, and Remote Desktop, this build addresses several longstanding issues. - User-Centric Updates:
Thoughtful advice on ensuring optimal performance—like plugging in your PC and checking indexing status—demonstrates Microsoft’s focus on the end-user experience.
With a robust suite of features and refinements, Windows 11 Dev Build 26120.3291 stands as a testament to Microsoft’s ongoing effort to intertwine convenience, innovation, and stability. Stay tuned for further updates, and happy testing!
Source: Neowin https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-dev-build-261203291-is-out-with-photos-support-in-windows-search-and-more/
