Hello Windows Insiders, today marks the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4151 (KB5058486) to the Beta Channel for users on Windows 11, version 24H2. This update signifies a transition, as Build 22635.5305 was the final update for the Beta Channel based on the previous version, 23H2. All Insiders in the Beta Channel will now be automatically upgraded to the latest version with today’s flight.
Changes in the Beta Channel builds and updates are categorized into two sections: new features, improvements, and fixes that are gradually rolled out for Insiders who have opted to receive the latest updates (accessible via Settings > Windows Update) and those rolling out to everyone in the Beta Channel. For further details, please refer to the Reminders section at the end of this communication.
New features gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
Introducing AI actions in File Explorer
The new AI actions in File Explorer enhance user interaction with files. By right-clicking on a file, users can swiftly perform tasks such as editing images or summarizing documents. This feature, akin to Click to Do, allows for seamless workflow while harnessing the power of AI without the need to open files. To explore these AI actions, simply right-click on a file to reveal the new AI actions option in the context menu.
Currently, users can experiment with four image actions designed for effortless editing or web searches:
- Bing Visual Search: Search the web using an image, enabling the discovery of similar images, products, and more.
- Blur Background: Automatically identifies the background in a photo, allowing users to highlight subjects and blur backgrounds with a single click.
- Erase Objects: Removes unwanted elements from photos, enhancing the overall image quality.
- Remove Background: Effortlessly alters images to create smooth cutouts of subjects.
These actions currently support file types such as .jpg, .jpeg, and .png. In the coming weeks, new AI actions for Microsoft 365 files will also be introduced:
- Summarize: Generate summaries of various document types stored on OneDrive and SharePoint without opening them individually.
- Create an FAQ: Transform OneDrive files into AI-generated Q&A lists, simplifying complex information into clear, shareable formats.
To access AI actions for Microsoft 365 files, users must meet specific criteria, including a Microsoft 365 subscription with a Copilot subscription and enrollment in the Microsoft 365 Insider Program.
Introducing Advanced Settings
The Advanced settings are now accessible via Settings > System > Advanced, featuring a redesign aimed at making settings more user-friendly. New additions include:
- Enable long paths to remove MAX_PATH limitations.
- Virtual workspaces for managing environments like Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox.
- File Explorer + version control, displaying Git information directly within File Explorer.
Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[Taskbar & System Tray]
- Text descriptions for assistive technologies have been added to the Accessibility flyout in quick settings for easier identification.
[Search on the Taskbar]
- Improvements to the Windows search box now include notifications indicating incomplete search results during indexing and status indicators for files and folders.
[Voice Access]
- Chinese support in voice access has been temporarily disabled to address issues, with plans for a future rollout.
[Widgets]
- A new visual experience for the widgets board is being tested, featuring a more organized and engaging feed, along with Copilot-curated stories.
[Power & Battery]
- Introduction of User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management aims to reduce power consumption during periods of inactivity.
[Windows Share]
- The UI in the Windows share window has been adjusted to allow users to select compression quality more intuitively.
[Windows Backup]
- Variations of the landing page for the Windows Backup app are being explored.
[Snipping Tool]
- The new text extractor feature can now be accessed directly via Win + Shift + T.
[Settings]
Small changes are being rolled out in the EEA region for default browsers, enhancing user experience.
Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on*
[General]
- Resolved an issue preventing core Windows surfaces from loading in safe mode.
[File Explorer]
- Fixed an issue where maximizing File Explorer would unmaximize the window upon clicking the new tab button.
[Settings]
- Addressed issues related to loading Bluetooth information and switching active hours in Settings.
Known issues
[General]
- Post-PC reset, the build version may incorrectly display as Build 26100.
- The reset option under Settings > System > Recovery is currently non-functional.
[Xbox Controllers]
- Some users are experiencing bugcheck issues with Xbox Controllers via Bluetooth, with a workaround provided through Device Manager.
[Click to Do (Preview)]
- Insiders on AMD or Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs may encounter delays in performing intelligent text actions after updates.
[Improved Windows Search]
- For optimal performance, it is recommended to plug in Copilot+ PCs during the initial search indexing.
[Start menu]
- Investigations are ongoing regarding issues with the Account Manager not opening for some Insiders.
[File Explorer]
- New issues with Narrator scan mode and right-to-left language configurations for AI actions are being addressed.
[Task Manager]
- After adding the new CPU Utility column, discrepancies in the System Idle Process may be observed.
[Narrator]
- Investigations are underway regarding the Describe image feature not functioning as intended.
[Voice Access]
- Issues with descriptive language support on Copilot+ PCs are being examined.
[Widgets]
- Pinning functionality in the new widgets board experience is still under development.
Reminders for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel
- Updates for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will be based on Windows 11, version 24H2.
- Features in the Beta Channel may not be released widely, as they are subject to testing and feedback.
- Localization for features in active development will occur over time.
- Some accessibility features may not function correctly during the preview phase.
- Check Flight Hub for a comprehensive overview of build statuses across Insider channels.
Thank you for your continued engagement,
Amanda & Brandon
