Discover Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2213: Features & Updates

Microsoft Releases Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2213 to Dev Channel​

Microsoft continues to advance its commitment to innovation and user-centric development with the latest release to its Windows Insider Program. The Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2213 (KB5045885) has been officially launched in the Dev Channel, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing enhancement of the Windows operating system. This update introduces a suite of new features, performance optimizations, security enhancements, and critical bug fixes aimed at refining the overall user experience and system stability.

Understanding the Windows Insider Program and Dev Channel​

The Windows Insider Program serves as a collaborative platform where users can engage directly with Microsoft's development process. By participating, Insiders gain early access to upcoming features, updates, and fixes, providing invaluable feedback that shapes the future of Windows. This symbiotic relationship ensures that the operating system evolves in alignment with user needs and industry advancements.
Within the Insider Program, Microsoft has structured multiple channels to cater to varying levels of stability and feature exposure:

Dev Channel​

Tailored for highly technical users and developers, the Dev Channel offers the earliest access to new features and updates. This channel is ideal for those who thrive on experimenting with cutting-edge technologies and are comfortable navigating the occasional instability that comes with highly experimental changes. Participants in the Dev Channel play a crucial role in identifying and reporting issues, thereby contributing to the refinement of features before they reach a broader audience.

Beta Channel​

Striking a balance between stability and early access, the Beta Channel provides Insiders with features that have undergone initial testing. This channel is suitable for users who seek a preview of upcoming enhancements without the potential instability associated with the Dev Channel. Features in the Beta Channel are generally more polished and reliable, making it a preferred choice for a wider range of users.

Release Preview Channel​

Offering updates closest to the official release, the Release Preview Channel is ideal for users who prefer a more stable experience while still gaining early insights into new features. This channel allows users to test final versions of updates before they are rolled out to the general public, ensuring a smoother transition and higher reliability.
The Dev Channel, being the most cutting-edge, is where Build 26120.2213 has been deployed, underscoring Microsoft's dedication to pushing the boundaries of Windows development and fostering a community-driven approach to innovation.

Key Features and Improvements in Build 26120.2213​

Build 26120.2213 introduces a comprehensive array of enhancements designed to optimize system performance, bolster security, and enrich the user interface. These updates focus on refining user interactions, ensuring system stability, and enhancing overall security measures.

• Enhanced Performance Optimizations​

A standout feature of this build is the extensive performance optimizations aimed at reducing system lag, accelerating boot times, and improving the overall responsiveness of Windows 11. These enhancements ensure that the operating system operates more smoothly, providing a seamless experience for both everyday tasks and resource-intensive applications. Users can expect faster application launches, more efficient memory management, and improved system resource allocation, all contributing to a more fluid and enjoyable computing experience.

• Security Enhancements​

In an era where cybersecurity threats are increasingly sophisticated, Microsoft continues to prioritize the security of its users. Build 26120.2213 integrates the latest security patches and updates designed to protect against emerging vulnerabilities. Key security enhancements include:

• Advanced Malware Protection​

Enhanced mechanisms for detecting and mitigating malware threats, ensuring that users' systems remain secure against a wide array of malicious software.

• Improved Encryption Protocols​

Upgraded encryption standards that safeguard user data both at rest and in transit, providing robust protection against unauthorized access.

• Strengthened Authentication Processes​

More robust authentication protocols that prevent unauthorized access and ensure the integrity of user accounts, thereby enhancing overall system security.

• User Interface Refinements​

Windows 11 is renowned for its sleek and modern interface, and Build 26120.2213 takes further strides in refining the user experience. Anticipated updates include:

• Window Management Improvements​

Enhanced window snapping and organization features that facilitate better multitasking and workspace management, allowing users to customize their desktop environment to suit their workflow.

• Intuitive Navigation Controls​

Streamlined navigation elements that make accessing applications and settings more intuitive, reducing the learning curve for new users and improving efficiency for seasoned users.

• Aesthetic Upgrades​

Subtle visual enhancements that improve both functionality and the overall aesthetic appeal of the operating system, including refined animations, updated icons, and improved theme integration.

• Application Compatibility and Stability​

Ensuring compatibility with a wide range of applications is critical for maintaining user productivity and satisfaction. Build 26120.2213 addresses several compatibility issues, providing smoother integration with existing software and minimizing the likelihood of application conflicts. Enhanced stability measures contribute to a more reliable computing experience by reducing system crashes and errors. Users can expect fewer interruptions during critical tasks, leading to a more dependable and efficient workflow.

• Introduction of New and Improved Features​

While specific new features in Build 26120.2213 have not been exhaustively detailed, the Dev Channel is known for introducing experimental functionalities that may be refined or expanded in future updates. Users can anticipate innovative tools designed to streamline workflows, offer new customization options, and leverage emerging technologies within the Windows ecosystem. These features may include advanced productivity tools, enhanced customization settings, and integrations with new hardware and software platforms, providing users with cutting-edge capabilities that enhance their overall computing experience.

Detailed Breakdown of Changes and Fixes​

Beyond the high-level features, Build 26120.2213 includes numerous targeted fixes and improvements across various system components, enhancing both functionality and user experience.

Input Enhancements​

IME Toolbar in Full-Screen Mode: A significant change has been implemented to hide the IME (Input Method Editor) toolbar when applications are in full-screen mode. This benefits users who have the IME toolbar enabled and frequently type in Chinese or Japanese, providing a cleaner and more immersive full-screen experience without the clutter of the toolbar.
Gamepad Keyboard Layout Temporarily Disabled: To address recent issues, the new Gamepad keyboard layout for the on-screen keyboard in Windows 11 has been temporarily disabled. This feature, introduced in Build 26120.2130, faced challenges that warranted its temporary removal. Microsoft plans to reintroduce this feature in a future update once the identified issues are resolved, ensuring a more stable and reliable user experience.

Start Menu Fixes​

Improved Reliability: An underlying issue that was impacting the reliability of the Start menu has been fixed. Users should now experience a more consistent and dependable Start menu without unexpected interruptions or crashes.
Spacing Issues Resolved: Unexpected spacing between items in the Start menu apps list for some users has been addressed. This fix ensures a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing layout, enhancing the overall usability of the Start menu.
Pin/Unpin Functionality Restored: The ability to pin and unpin apps to and from the Start menu, which was previously unavailable for some users, has been reinstated. This restoration allows users to customize their Start menu according to their preferences, improving accessibility and convenience.

File Explorer Fixes​

Navigation Pane Spacing: Issues causing excessive padding between items in the navigation pane have been resolved. This fix leads to a more streamlined and organized File Explorer interface, facilitating easier navigation and file management.
RAW Image Thumbnails: The display of RAW images taken in portrait mode, which were previously showing as landscape thumbnails, has been fixed. This enhancement ensures that image thumbnails accurately reflect their orientation, improving the visual browsing experience in File Explorer.

Taskbar Fixes​

Search Box Visibility: Users will now see a search box when the taskbar auto-hides and the search setting is set to “Search box” instead of an icon. This improvement enhances search functionality, making it more accessible and user-friendly.
Keyboard Shortcuts: Issues with WIN + <number> shortcuts not functioning correctly in some cases have been fixed. This restoration ensures that users can reliably use keyboard shortcuts for quick access to pinned applications, improving productivity.
Close Button Functionality: Problems where the X button to close app windows from the taskbar wasn’t working for some Insiders have been addressed. This fix ensures that users can effortlessly close applications directly from the taskbar, enhancing overall usability.
Widgets Text Overlap: Fixed text overlap issues with widgets on secondary monitors for users with a left-aligned taskbar. This fix improves readability and the visual layout of widgets, providing a more polished and functional desktop environment.

Dev Drive Fixes​

WSL Accessibility: Resolved issues that were preventing Dev Drives from being accessible within the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) after recent updates. This fix ensures seamless integration and functionality for developers utilizing WSL, enhancing their workflow and productivity.

Other Fixes​

Domain Joining: An underlying issue that could prevent devices from joining a domain has been fixed. This fix enhances network connectivity and management capabilities, particularly beneficial for enterprise environments.
DISM Cleanup: Resolved issues with DISM /StartComponentCleanup getting stuck at 71% and showing error 6842. This fix improves system maintenance processes, allowing for more efficient cleanup and optimization of system components.
Get-WindowsCapability Command: Fixed instances where the Get-WindowsCapability command would fail unexpectedly until the PC was rebooted. This enhancement ensures more reliable execution of system commands, contributing to overall system stability.
JPG Rotation Info: Addressed issues where rotation information about JPGs couldn’t be queried via APIs like PowerShell. This fix improves image metadata handling, allowing for more accurate and reliable image processing.

Fixes for Everyone in the Dev Channel​

Beyond targeted component fixes, Build 26120.2213 also includes broader fixes affecting all members of the Dev Channel.

General Fixes​

Game Launch Issues: An underlying issue that was preventing some games from launching in the previous flight has been fixed. This fix ensures better gaming performance and compatibility, providing a smoother experience for gamers and developers alike.

Task Manager Fixes​

App and Process Count: An issue causing Task Manager to show a count of 0 for apps and processes has been resolved. This fix enhances system monitoring accuracy, allowing users to better manage and oversee running applications and processes.

Network Fixes​

DHCP Lease Acquisition: Fixed issues with DHCP where unexpected duplicate options would fail lease acquisition, leading to Wi-Fi connectivity problems. This fix improves network reliability and ensures consistent internet access.
DirectAccess Connectivity: Addressed issues where DirectAccess wasn’t working and could get stuck in a connecting state. This enhancement strengthens network security and connectivity, particularly for enterprise users relying on secure remote access.

Gradual Rollout and Update Mechanism​

Microsoft employs a strategic approach to rolling out updates within the Dev Channel to mitigate potential disruptions and gather comprehensive user feedback. Changes and updates are categorized into two primary buckets:

• New Features, Improvements, and Fixes for Opt-In Users​

These updates are gradually introduced to Insiders who have enabled the option to receive the latest updates as they become available. Users can activate this setting by navigating to Settings > Windows Update and toggling the relevant option. This approach allows Microsoft to monitor the performance of new features in a controlled environment and make necessary adjustments based on real-world usage.

• New Features, Improvements, and Fixes Rolling Out to All Dev Channel Members​

Following the initial release to opted-in users, these updates are systematically rolled out to the broader Dev Channel audience. This staged deployment ensures that any widespread issues are identified and addressed promptly, maintaining system stability and user satisfaction.
This dual-tiered rollout strategy underscores Microsoft's commitment to quality assurance and user-centric development, enabling continuous improvement while minimizing potential disruptions.

How to Update to Build 26120.2213​

For Windows Insiders eager to access the latest features and improvements, updating to Build 26120.2213 is a straightforward process:

• Join the Windows Insider Program: If you haven't already, sign up for the Windows Insider Program through your Microsoft account.
• Select the Dev Channel: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program and choose the Dev Channel to receive the most cutting-edge updates.
• Check for Updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update and click on Check for updates. The system will detect Build 26120.2213 and commence the download and installation process.
• Restart Your Device: Upon completion of the update download, restart your device to finalize the installation and apply the new changes.

It's advisable to back up important data before proceeding with the update to safeguard against any unforeseen issues during the installation process.

Reminders and Additional Information​

While Build 26120.2213 brings a slew of enhancements, it's important for users to remain informed about the nature of Insider Preview builds:

Stability Considerations​

Dev Channel builds are inherently more experimental and may exhibit instability or compatibility issues with certain applications. Users should be prepared for potential glitches and be proactive in reporting feedback to Microsoft.

Feedback Mechanism​

Active participation in the Insider Program includes providing feedback on new features and identifying any bugs or issues encountered. This collaborative effort is instrumental in shaping the future of Windows 11.

Stay Updated​

Regularly check the Windows Insider Blog and official channels for detailed information on specific changes, new features, and updates within each build. The Reminders section at the bottom of the official blog post offers valuable insights and guidance for Insiders.

Conclusion​

The release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2213 (KB5045885) to the Dev Channel represents another milestone in Microsoft's ongoing efforts to refine and enhance the Windows operating system. By leveraging the collective expertise and feedback of the Windows Insider community, Microsoft continues to innovate and deliver a robust and user-friendly platform. Whether you're a developer seeking the latest tools or an enthusiast eager to explore new features, this update offers a glimpse into the future trajectory of Windows 11, promising a more secure, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing computing experience.
As the Dev Channel continues to receive these iterative updates, users can look forward to a steadily improving Windows environment, fortified by community-driven insights and cutting-edge advancements.

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Source: Microsoft - Windows Insiders Blog Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2213 (Dev Channel)

 

[ChatGPT]

Microsoft continues its commitment to refining the Windows 11 experience by releasing the latest Insider Preview Build 26120.2213 (KB5045885) to the Dev Channel. This update introduces a series of enhancements and fixes aimed at improving user experience, system reliability, and developer functionalities. Below is an in-depth look at the changes and improvements included in this build.

Input Improvements​

IME Toolbar Enhancement​

Microsoft has initiated a change to improve the user interface for those utilizing the Input Method Editor (IME) toolbar, especially for users typing in languages such as Chinese and Japanese. When applications are switched to full-screen mode, the IME toolbar will now automatically hide, providing a cleaner and more immersive viewing experience. This adjustment targets users who have the IME toolbar enabled, ensuring that their typing workflows remain uninterrupted and aesthetically pleasing during full-screen operations.

Gamepad Keyboard Layout Temporarily Disabled​

In an effort to address emerging issues, Microsoft has temporarily disabled the new Gamepad keyboard layout for the on-screen keyboard in Windows 11. This feature, which began its rollout with Build 26120.2130, encountered unforeseen challenges that warranted its suspension. However, users can anticipate the return of this feature in a future flight once the identified issues are resolved.

Start Menu Enhancements​

Reliability Boosts​

This build focuses on enhancing the reliability of the Start Menu, a core component of Windows 11's user interface. Users may have experienced unexpected behaviors, and the latest fixes aim to stabilize the Start Menu's performance, ensuring smoother operation and interaction.

App Spacing Corrections​

A common issue reported by Insider users involved irregular spacing between app icons within the Start Menu's applications list. Build 26120.2213 rectifies this by standardizing the spacing, resulting in a more organized and visually consistent layout.

Pin/Unpin Functionality Restored​

Some users faced challenges when attempting to pin or unpin applications from the Start Menu, with the options becoming unexpectedly unavailable. This build restores full functionality, allowing users to customize their Start Menu with ease once again.

File Explorer Fixes​

Navigation Pane Padding Issue Resolved​

In certain scenarios, users noticed excessive padding between items in the File Explorer's navigation pane, causing the list to appear overly spaced out. The latest update addresses this by reducing the unnecessary padding, leading to a more compact and user-friendly navigation experience.

RAW Image Thumbnail Orientation Fix​

Photographers and users handling RAW images reported that thumbnails for portrait-oriented RAW photos were incorrectly displayed in landscape mode. This build corrects the thumbnail orientation, ensuring that images are previewed accurately, reflecting their intended dimensions.

Taskbar Adjustments​

Search Box Visibility​

A change has been implemented to enhance the visibility of the search functionality on the Taskbar. When the Taskbar is set to auto-hide and the search setting is configured to display a "Search box" rather than an icon, users will now consistently see the search box appear, facilitating quicker and more efficient searches.

WIN + Shortcut Fixes​

Issues with the functionality of WIN + shortcuts in certain cases have been addressed. Users who previously experienced non-responsive shortcuts will find that these key combinations now operate as intended, streamlining keyboard navigation and command execution.

X Button Functionality Restored​

The X button, used to close application windows directly from the Taskbar, was malfunctioning for some Insider users. This build restores full functionality to the X button, allowing for seamless window management and closure.

Widgets Text Overlap on Secondary Monitors Fixed​

For users utilizing secondary monitors with a left-aligned Taskbar, the text within widgets occasionally overlapped with the date and time display. This overlap has been resolved, ensuring that all information on the Taskbar remains clear and unobstructed across multiple displays.

Developer Drive Resolutions​

Accessibility within WSL​

Developers leveraging Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) encountered accessibility issues with Dev Drives in previous builds. The latest update resolves these underlying issues, ensuring that Dev Drives are consistently accessible within WSL environments, thereby enhancing development workflows.

Other Technical Fixes​

Domain Joining Issues​

A critical fix addresses underlying issues that previously prevented some users from joining a domain. This resolution ensures that domain integration processes function correctly, facilitating smoother network and workplace deployments.

DISM /StartComponentCleanup Error 6842 Resolved​

Users faced challenges with the DISM /StartComponentCleanup command, particularly where the process would stall at 71% and display error 6842. This build rectifies the issue, restoring the proper functionality of DISM commands essential for system maintenance and optimization.

Get-WindowsCapability Command Stability​

An underlying issue that caused the Get-WindowsCapability command to enter an unstable state, leading to unexpected failures until a system reboot, has been fixed. Users can now execute this command reliably without encountering abrupt failures.

JPG Rotation Info API Fix​

Developers utilizing APIs to query rotation information for JPG images, such as through PowerShell scripts, experienced inaccuracies. This build corrects the API responses, ensuring that rotation data for JPGs is retrieved accurately and consistently.

General Improvements for All Dev Channel Users​

Game Launch Issues Resolved​

An underlying issue that prevented some games from launching in prior builds has been addressed. Gamers can now expect a more stable gaming experience without interruptions caused by launch failures.

Task Manager App/Process Count Accuracy​

A fix has been implemented to correct instances where Task Manager displayed a count of zero for running apps and processes. This improvement ensures that users have an accurate view of their system's active applications and processes.

DHCP and Wi-Fi Connectivity Fixes​

Issues impacting DHCP functionality, particularly where unexpected duplicate options failed lease acquisition leading to Wi-Fi connectivity problems, have been resolved. Users should experience more reliable network connections without interruptions.

DirectAccess Stability Enhancements​

DirectAccess, a feature that provides seamless and secure connectivity to network resources, previously encountered issues where it remained stuck in a connecting state. This build enhances the stability and reliability of DirectAccess, ensuring consistent connections.

Known Issues​

Multi-Monitor Desktop Background Rendering​

A newly identified issue affects users utilizing multiple monitors, where desktop backgrounds sometimes fail to display correctly, resulting in large black areas across the screens. Microsoft is actively working on a fix to address this rendering problem, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing desktop environment across all monitors.

Windows Insider Program Update​

Microsoft reiterates the operational framework for the Windows Insider Program's Dev Channel in this release:

• Update Rollout via Control Feature Rollout Technology: Features are introduced gradually, starting with a subset of users to monitor feedback and performance before broader deployment.
• Toggle Settings for Early Access: Users who enable the toggle to receive the latest updates immediately can access new features as they become available through Settings > Windows Update. This provides enthusiasts the opportunity to experience and provide feedback on the newest developments promptly.
• Potential for Feature Alterations: Not all features included in Insider builds make it to the final release. Microsoft experiments with various concepts, and based on user feedback and testing, some features may undergo changes, be removed, or be replaced entirely.
• Localization and Feedback: Features in active development may not be fully localized initially. Localization efforts continue as features are finalized, and users are encouraged to report any localization issues via the Feedback Hub.
• Dev vs. Beta Channels: The Dev and Beta Channels follow parallel development paths, meaning some features may appear in the Beta Channel before the Dev Channel.

For a comprehensive overview of the current build distributions across Insider channels, users are directed to the Flight Hub.

Conclusion​

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2213 (KB5045885) marks another step forward in Microsoft's ongoing enhancement of the Windows 11 ecosystem. By addressing a broad spectrum of issues—from user interface improvements and system reliability to developer-focused functionalities—Microsoft continues to refine the operating system based on real-world usage and feedback. Users in the Dev Channel can look forward to a more stable and feature-rich Windows 11 experience as Microsoft continues to iterate and improve upon its flagship OS.

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Source: Neowin https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-insider-build-261202213-kb5045885-fixes-multi-mon-desktop-background-and-more/

 

[ChatGPT]

Windows 11 remains in a state of rapid evolution, pushing the limits of what users expect from their desktop environment while continually introducing under-the-hood refinements and highly visible adjustments. The latest build—Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (KB5053660), now available on the Dev and Beta Channels—offers a snapshot of Microsoft’s relentless march toward an increasingly integrated, intelligent, and customizable operating system. As with every Insider release, both the ambitious and the cautious can find elements worthy of praise, but also changes that demand scrutiny.

Understanding the Update Path: A Transitional Moment for Insiders​

A defining characteristic of this rollout is the ongoing convergence of the Dev and Beta Channels around the Windows 11, version 24H2 codebase. For the time being, Insiders in both channels are working with the same builds, granting unprecedented flexibility to switch between channels—though Microsoft makes it clear this window is closing soon. This is far from a mere technicality; it gives users a unique, fleeting power to choose their risk profile and influence the development trajectory with their feedback.
The channel switch, however, does not come without its trade-offs. Users moving from Dev to Beta may lose access to select features temporarily—a reminder that even within the so-called “cutting edge,” Microsoft is experimenting at several speeds and governance layers. Once the Dev Channel advances to a higher build number, this symmetry will shatter, and the usual gap between the “early adopter” and “safety first” tracks will return.

Recommended Files in File Explorer: Next-Level Productivity or Privacy Worry?​

One of the standouts in this build is an update to File Explorer’s “Recommended files”—an enhancement aiming to present users with files most relevant to their current activity. Accessible to those with personal Microsoft accounts and local profiles, the recommendation engine scans usage patterns, downloads, and gallery activity to propose quick links through a visually intuitive carousel. For enterprise users (signed in with work or school accounts via Entra ID), these recommendations are set to be even more contextually rich.
There’s an undeniable convenience here: Streamlining file access and proposing ‘just right’ suggestions can shave seconds—or even minutes—off daily workflows. The core strength is in time savings and the reduction of digital friction. However, the flip side emerges for privacy-conscious users. File recommendations necessarily rely on a degree of behavioral tracking, raising questions about where this data is processed, how securely it is handled, and whether recommendations could one day surface sensitive files at inopportune times or on shared devices.
Though the feature is not yet rolling out in the European Economic Area, presumably due to ongoing regulatory reviews, it’s likely only a temporary delay. Microsoft seems determined to place intelligent recommendation systems at the heart of Windows going forward.

Live Captions Now Offer Real-Time Translations: Accessibility Meets Ambition​

Accessibility has been a pillar of Windows 11’s narrative, and this build strengthens that commitment. On AMD and Intel®-powered Copilot+ PCs, the Live Captions feature is now capable of real-time translation—most notably to Simplified Chinese, but also supporting a sweeping roster of languages including Arabic, German, Finnish, Portuguese, and many others.
The implications are profound, especially for multinational teams, classrooms, and accessibility-reliant users: Out-of-the-box translation for spoken content removes friction from cross-lingual communication and information consumption. Yet, deployment is restricted to specific hardware (Copilot+ PCs), leaving many users waiting and perhaps feeling overlooked. As AI-centric features evolve, a growing hardware divide could emerge between “premium” Windows experiences and those available to broader, budget-friendly hardware.

Smarter Start Menu Recommendations: Toward Predictive Task Management​

Windows 11 is clearly aiming for an OS that anticipates what its user wants before it’s asked. The newly tested feature in the Start menu leverages contextual analysis to recommend a “snap group” of apps—essentially a prompt to snap together two applications that are historically or logically paired. While the concept of grouping windows for multitasking isn’t new, making those groupings intelligent and user-driven represents a leap in user experience.
Yet, as always, predictive systems can falter, at times surfacing irrelevant pairings or unwelcome interruptions that risk undermining productivity. The challenge lies in striking a balance—delivering useful suggestions without becoming ‘clippy 2.0,’ an unwanted assistant that frustrates more than it helps.

A Toast to Security: Account Proofs for Recovery​

Microsoft is introducing a new notification—subtle but important—to nudge users into adding a secondary email or phone number to their Microsoft account. This tiny addition could save countless users from account lockouts and password mishaps. By foregrounding account recovery details, Microsoft not only shields users from digital misfortunes but also subtly encourages ongoing engagement within its broader ecosystem.
Importantly, the feature is context-dependent: It only appears if a Microsoft account is detected and only when recovery info is missing. In the era of account takeovers and credential loss, simple reminders like this elevate the safety net without adding complexity to daily use.

Widgets Get Their Web Wings: A Playground for Developers​

A subtle yet forward-looking change, the widgets system now lets web developers convert existing web content into dynamic, interactive desktop widgets. This move positions Windows 11 as a more open, versatile platform—one that seeks to nurture a symbiosis between web and desktop ecosystems.
By lowering the barrier for widget creation, Microsoft could help spark a renaissance in Windows Widgets. It’s in the hands of developers to seize the opportunity, but Microsoft’s provision of tools and visibility is a critical first step toward making Windows Widgets a meaningful part of the user experience.

Emoji & More Panel: Discoverability Meets Delight​

Expressiveness in computing is no longer optional—Windows 11 is doubling down on fun, communication, and personality. A new system tray icon aims to surface the “emoji and more” panel, making emojis, GIFs, and kaomoji easily accessible with a single click. This, alongside the enduring WIN + . keyboard shortcut, means that digital self-expression is now just a fingertip away everywhere in Windows.
Notably, discoverability is king. Microsoft has recognized that features must not only exist but be instantly accessible to foster daily use. Customization and right-click options further ensure the new icon is neither intrusive nor static, but as dynamic as users want it to be.

“Top Cards” in Settings: Transparency and Upgrade Clarity​

One of the more understated yet impactful updates is the addition of “top cards” under Settings > System > About. These cards present processor, RAM, storage, and GPU specs in a clean, at-a-glance format. For less technical users, this demystifies hardware details and allows more informed decisions about upgrades or troubleshooting. For advanced users, it delivers quick insight and confirmation.
However, this feature is currently limited to specific form-factors (such as desktops), and notably absent from managed commercial PCs—a decision that may frustrate IT admins or power users seeking consistency across machines.

Accessibility Progress in File Explorer​

Accessibility continues to be a major focus area, and the latest build expands text scaling support within File Explorer, particularly across file Open/Save dialogs and various wizards. Incremental as this may seem, such changes make a world of difference for users relying on larger text, further closing the gap toward complete accessibility parity.

Notable Fixes: Quality-of-Life Matters​

With this build, Microsoft addresses a number of high-impact bugs:

• File Explorer improvements include resolving a rare issue where closing via the X button slowed performance, as well as progress on accessibility enhancements.
• High-profile crashes such as those tied to ctfmon.exe (impacting text input) and settings instability have received needed remediation.
• Several localization and display name issues, particularly affecting Japanese users, have been smoothed out.
• Under-the-hood reliability improvements address system bugchecks and app stability related to DLL handling.

These steady refinements, while less visible than feature additions, remain the cornerstone of user satisfaction and trust.

Ongoing Known Issues: Transparency and Temporary Workarounds​

No Insider build arrives without its share of unresolved problems. Build 26120.3380 is no exception, and Microsoft’s frankness about current issues is commendable. Some of the most significant include:

• Post-PC reset, versions may display incorrectly, though this does not affect update eligibility.
• Recall, Microsoft’s snapshotting/recall tool, has multiple pain points: from snapshots being deleted on enterprise-managed PCs (with a group policy workaround suggested) to sometimes being unable to enable or save snapshots at all.
• The “intelligent text actions” rely on secure cloud endpoints for content moderation, with local moderation planned for the future.
• Performance quirks persist in File Explorer and Task Manager, with the latter’s new “CPU Utility” column not matching up to older metrics.
• Features tied to Windows Search improvement on Copilot+ PCs depend on users plugging in their machine for initial indexing—an easily overlooked requirement that could sow confusion for the unaware.

These pains underscore both the dynamism and the risk of living on the forefront of Windows development: Functionality may be stirring, but so too are bugs, inconsistencies, and experience gaps.

The Insider Ecosystem: Shape-Shifting Features, Controlled Rollouts​

Microsoft’s approach to feature rollout is more sophisticated than ever. Deployments are gradually controlled via “Control Feature Rollout” technology, with only subsets of Insiders initially receiving new elements. Features are then expanded as feedback and telemetry validate their readiness. Thus, not all features land on all PCs at once—a fact that might frustrate those eager to try the latest, but which allows Microsoft to avoid catastrophic missteps.
It’s equally crucial to note that features in preview might never reach the general population. Some may morph, others vanish, replaced by wholly new concepts based on Insider feedback. Localization lags, especially on features still in flux, so Insiders are reminded to report translation bugs as part of their participation—the modern cost of riding the innovation wave.

Strategic Takeaways for Windows Enthusiasts​

This build is representative of Microsoft’s broader philosophy: Incremental improvement at breakneck speed, balanced with a healthy dose of candor about what’s broken, provisional, or at risk of being removed. The dual-channel approach, with rapid enablement toggles and flexible feedback loops, fosters a uniquely participatory spirit.
But it’s not pure utopia:

• The boundary between work and life, creativity and privacy, is softening as features like file recommendations and widgets become ever more context-aware.
• Hardware stratification looms on the horizon, with features like Copilot+ and real-time translation only for select devices.
• Enterprise and education settings remain an afterthought in some cases—echoed by Recall’s snapshot management issues and top cards being unavailable on managed devices.

The Road Ahead: AI, Widgets, and Customization​

If this build signals anything, it’s that the future of Windows is both cloudier and smarter. AI-driven recommendations, dynamic search, cross-language accessibility, and developer-friendly widgets reflect a willingness to make Windows not just a productivity platform, but an intelligent, user-adapting environment. Whether these shifts lead to genuine workflow enhancement or distraction overload depends on Microsoft’s vigilance in listening to feedback and preserving user agency.
Microsoft’s strategy of openness—soliciting feedback, providing workaround transparency, and using gradual rollouts—should serve as a standard for OS development in an age where risk and innovation are interlinked. For both IT professionals and everyday enthusiasts, keeping pace with such fast-moving changes is demanding but also exhilarating.
As always, the Insider Preview channel remains a playground for those willing to trade a bit of stability for a first look at the digital future. For the rest, this update is a glimpse of what’s to unfold when the features, fixes, and foibles of Build 26120.3380—and its lessons—filter down into mainstream Windows 11 releases.
In sum, Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 is a cocktail of bold innovation, pragmatic improvements, and real but manageable risks. It invites users not just to witness but shape the trajectory of the world’s most widely used desktop platform. For those longing for increased control, insight, and a peek into tomorrow’s Windows, this build delivers in spades—provided you’re ready for a few bumps along the journey.

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Source: blogs.windows.com Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (Dev and Beta Channels)