Windows Insiders have yet another treat in store. The latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 (KB5052090) is now rolling out to both the Dev and Beta Channels. This update, built on Windows 11 version 24H2, carries a mix of innovative features, practical fixes, and a few cautionary notes that set the stage for further evolution of your Windows experience.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what’s new and what’s fixed, examine the broader implications for Windows users, and offer some expert insights into how these changes fit into the wider Windows development landscape.
Summary: By embracing iterative updates and community insights, Build 26120.3360 not only paves the way for future features but also reinforces Microsoft’s commitment to a user-driven development process.
For Windows Insiders, the call to action is clear: explore, experiment, and engage. Whether you’re taking advantage of customizable lock screens, eagerly scrutinizing new CPU metrics, or simply enjoying an improved file-sharing experience, your participation plays a critical role in shaping the future of Windows 11.
Stay tuned for further updates and be sure to join the conversation on the forum—you’re not just a user; you’re a key part of this ongoing journey!
Final Summary: Build 26120.3360 delivers refined performance insights, enhanced personalization options, and targeted bug fixes, marking another meaningful step in Windows 11’s evolution. Now is the time to test, provide feedback, and be an active participant in the Windows Insider community.
Happy testing, and enjoy the new features!
Source: Microsoft - Windows Insiders Blog Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 (Dev and Beta Channels)
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what’s new and what’s fixed, examine the broader implications for Windows users, and offer some expert insights into how these changes fit into the wider Windows development landscape.
What's New in Build 26120.3360
Dual-Channel Update: Dev and Beta
- Simultaneous Delivery
The update is available simultaneously on both the Dev and Beta Channels—with the same version base (Windows 11, version 24H2). This unique dual rollout allows Insiders in the Beta Channel to optionally upgrade at their convenience while ensuring that the Dev Channel gets the same enhancements immediately. - Channel Switching Opportunity
For those on the Dev Channel wondering if it’s time to step back to the Beta Channel for a potentially more stable experience, the update opens a temporary window for a channel switch. However, note that the window will close once the Dev Channel moves ahead with higher build numbers. If you lean towards a more polished feature set, consider your trade-offs carefully—temporarily sacrificing some features might be worth it for stability.
Fresh Customization with Lock Screen Widgets
- Enhanced Personalization for EEA Insiders
The build rolls out an exciting new feature for Insiders in the European Economic Area (EEA): support for customizable lock screen widgets. Think of it as the morning coffee menu for your OS—weather updates, sports scores, traffic insights, and more, all at a glance as soon as you wake up your PC. - Tailored Widget Experience
Users can now add, remove, and rearrange widgets directly from Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. This enables you to curate the information that matters most to you, bringing a personal touch to your daily Windows experience. - IT-Friendly Group Policy
Businesses and IT administrators will appreciate the inclusion of a new group policy titled “Disable Widgets On Lock Screen.” This lets organizations disable the lock screen widget experience across managed devices without affecting other widget functionalities.
Revamped Task Manager Metrics
- New CPU Utilization Calculations
One of the notable updates is the enhancement in how Task Manager now calculates CPU utilization across the Processes, Performance, and Users pages. The new method aligns with standard metrics used by industry-leading tools, ensuring a more consistent reading of your system’s workload. - Optional Legacy Insights
If you’re nostalgic (or need to compare the old data), an optional “CPU Utility” column is available on the Details tab. It’s hidden by default but retains the previous CPU metric for backward compatibility, giving you a dual perspective on your system’s performance.
Practical Enhancements and Bug Fixes
- Direct Sharing from File Explorer
A minor yet welcome change enables sharing directly with apps from File Explorer or even from the desktop’s context menu. This update streamlines workflows by reducing the steps required to send files to your favorite apps. - Snipping Tool Gets a Trim
The Snipping Tool update (version 11.2501.7.0) introduces a handy “trim” feature. Now, you can adjust the start and end points of your screen recordings with ease, perfect for quick edits without needing separate video editing software. - Bug Fixes Across the Board
The release also addresses several pesky issues: - File Explorer Home Glitch: An issue where File Explorer Home might misbehave by displaying random text has been corrected.
- Taskbar Underline Residue: Stubborn underlines lingering under app icons have been fixed.
- Remote Desktop Stability: Resolved an issue that caused freezes during Remote Desktop logins or frequent disconnections.
- Settings Crash Issue: Fixed a crash error in Settings that previously gave users a memory read error message.
- Duplicate Boot Entry: An upgrade mishap that could lead to duplicate Windows entries in the boot menu has been corrected, ensuring a cleaner boot process.
Known Issues to Keep in Mind
While Build 26120.3360 brings numerous improvements, there are minor quirks that are currently on Microsoft’s radar:- Incorrect Build Display Post-Reset:
After a PC reset, your system might incorrectly show Build 26100 instead of 26120. Rest assured, this anomaly does not hinder future update installations. - Recall Feature Glitches:
Some Insiders might experience issues with the Recall feature, where automatic snapshot saving fails. This is under active development, with fixes planned for future updates. - Residual Bugs in File Explorer and Task Manager:
- File Explorer might be slow to close when using the X button, a factor that could impact related title bar actions.
- The Performance page in Task Manager still displays CPU graphs based on the old calculation method, even after adding the new CPU Utility column.
- Text Action Delays:
Occasionally, additional context provided by intelligent text actions might not sync perfectly yet. This feature leverages cloud-based processing to ensure prompt, safe responses, and improvements are on the way.
What Does This Mean for Windows 11 Users?
Iterative Innovation and Community Feedback
Microsoft has long embraced a continuous delivery model for Windows Insider builds. Build 26120.3360 is another example of this iterative approach—an ongoing process of introducing, testing, and refining new features before they eventually make their way into mainstream releases.- User Empowerment Through Feedback
Each new build gives users the opportunity to influence future Windows updates. Whether it’s tweaking how CPU metrics are displayed or polishing the lock screen experience, Insiders have a direct line to Microsoft’s development process through the Feedback Hub (WIN + F). This feedback is invaluable; after all, who better to judge usability than the community that uses Windows every day? - Balancing the Cutting Edge with Stability
There’s a perennial question in the Windows community: Are you a champion of the latest innovations, or do you prefer a stable, less experimental environment? This build offers a chance to weigh those options. The simultaneous release on two channels means you have the flexibility to stay on the bleeding edge or opt for a more stable view, depending on your needs. - The Broader Context of Windows Evolution
The updates in Build 26120.3360 illustrate a larger trend in the tech world: the rapid pace of software refinement and the increasing importance of real-time feedback. Much like how many developers now tweak their applications based on continuous integration and user analytics, Microsoft’s Insider builds offer a vibrant laboratory for testing new ideas—be it through improved task management, innovative personalization features, or streamlined file sharing.
Expert Analysis & Broader Implications
A New Era of Customization
The introduction of customizable lock screen widgets represents more than just a new feature—it signals a broader shift toward personalization in Windows 11. By enabling users to curate a dynamic and informative lock screen, Microsoft is acknowledging that one size does not fit all. This is especially significant in enterprise environments where IT admins now have the power to override these customizations with new group policies if needed.Standards in System Performance
The revamp in Task Manager’s CPU utilization tracking is no small feat. By aligning with industry-standard metrics, Microsoft not only improves transparency but also helps bridge the gap between native Windows tools and third-party performance monitors. Such changes benefit power users in technical communities, who can now compare performance metrics more reliably across different platforms.Streamlined User Interactions
The context menu improvements in File Explorer and the new sharing functionality simplify everyday tasks. These updates might seem minor, but their cumulative effect significantly enhances the user experience—making it easier and faster to share files or navigate system applications.The Role of Insider Builds in Shaping Future Releases
Every Insider build serves as both a testing ground and a preview of what’s to come. Feedback from these builds feeds directly into subsequent updates, ensuring that when features finally arrive in the stable releases, they are well-honed and user-validated. The lively discussions in various community threads—ranging from detailed analyses of bug fixes in the KB5052089 update to deep dives into Snipping Tool enhancements—demonstrate the collaborative spirit of the Windows community.Summary: By embracing iterative updates and community insights, Build 26120.3360 not only paves the way for future features but also reinforces Microsoft’s commitment to a user-driven development process.
Getting Involved: Tips for Windows Insiders
If you’re ready to dive into Build 26120.3360, here are a few tips to maximize your experience:- Review the Update Details Thoroughly
Before switching channels, familiarize yourself with the new features and known issues. Reflect on whether the bleeding-edge features align with your work or play routine. - Experiment with New Features
- Customize your lock screen with new widgets (if you’re in the EEA).
- Check out the new CPU metrics in Task Manager and compare them with your usual data.
- Test the trim feature in the updated Snipping Tool to see how it streamlines your screen recording editing.
- Report Your Findings
Use the Feedback Hub (WIN + F) to report any bugs or offer constructive feedback on new features. Your insights help shape the future iterations of Windows 11. - Engage in Community Discussions
Join ongoing forum threads where fellow Insiders are discussing similar updates—whether it’s the recent KB5052089 update or the Snipping Tool improvements. Peer discussions often reveal hidden tips and provide additional support for troubleshooting.
Conclusion
Build 26120.3360 is more than just a routine update—it’s a window into the evolving nature of the Windows operating system. With a host of new features designed to enhance personalization, performance, and usability, this build underscores Microsoft’s dedication to iterative, community-driven innovation.For Windows Insiders, the call to action is clear: explore, experiment, and engage. Whether you’re taking advantage of customizable lock screens, eagerly scrutinizing new CPU metrics, or simply enjoying an improved file-sharing experience, your participation plays a critical role in shaping the future of Windows 11.
Stay tuned for further updates and be sure to join the conversation on the forum—you’re not just a user; you’re a key part of this ongoing journey!
Final Summary: Build 26120.3360 delivers refined performance insights, enhanced personalization options, and targeted bug fixes, marking another meaningful step in Windows 11’s evolution. Now is the time to test, provide feedback, and be an active participant in the Windows Insider community.
Happy testing, and enjoy the new features!
Source: Microsoft - Windows Insiders Blog Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 (Dev and Beta Channels)
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