As August draws to a close, Microsoft has unveiled a series of intriguing enhancements for Windows 11 through its Windows Insider Program. The latter half of the month has seen the release of at least nine new preview builds across the Canary, Dev, and Beta Channels, introducing a variety of features that are not tied to any specific operating system release. Among these updates are AI actions for File Explorer, as well as a host of visual changes aimed at refining user experience.
Biggest changes from the Windows Insider Program in August 2025
In the Canary Channel, Microsoft has been busy integrating features already available in other channels, such as migrating legacy Control Panel functionalities to the Settings app. This includes replacing the “For developers” page with a new “Advanced” page and implementing various minor adjustments. Below are some of the most notable updates released in the latter half of August 2025.
1. Windows 11 resumes apps from Android
Among the standout features introduced in builds 26200.5761 and 26120.5761 is the ability to seamlessly continue using Android apps from the Taskbar on Windows 11. This integration works through the “Link to Windows” app, allowing users to pick up where they left off on their mobile devices. By enabling the “Allow this PC to access your mobile devices” option, users will receive a “Resume alert” notification in the Taskbar, facilitating a smooth transition between devices. If the app isn’t installed on the PC, the notification will guide users to the Microsoft Store for installation.
2. Lock Screen new battery icon
Another visual enhancement is the updated battery icon on the Lock Screen, now aligned with the design seen in the System Tray. The icon will display a green color when the battery is in good condition and plugged in, transition to yellow during energy-saving mode, and turn red when the battery is low. This update is also part of builds 26200.5761 and 26120.5761.
3. New keyboard shortcuts
Windows 11 has introduced new keyboard shortcuts for typing En dashes (–) and Em dashes (—) without needing to access the Emoji Panel. The shortcuts are:
- En dash (–): Windows key + Minus
- Em dash (—): Windows key + Shift + Minus
While this may seem like a minor addition, it enhances convenience for users who frequently utilize these punctuation marks.
4. Windows Share pin option
The Windows Share interface has also received an update, allowing users to pin their favorite apps under the “Share using” section. Additionally, builds 26220.5770 and 26120.5770 introduce a new “Find apps” option, enabling users to select the app they wish to share content with, including suggestions for apps available in the Microsoft Store.
5. File Explorer updated dark mode
With the release of preview builds 26200.5751 and 26120.5751, Microsoft has enhanced the dark mode experience in File Explorer. This includes a dark color scheme for dialogs related to copying files, confirming permissions, and deleting files and folders. However, some visual elements still require updates to fully align with dark mode, such as the “Folder Options” page.
6. Click to Do new selection options
Microsoft is enhancing Click to Do for Copilot+ PCs by introducing new selection options, including “Freeform Selection,” “Rectangle Selection,” and “Ctrl + Click.” These features allow users to select items more intuitively. Additionally, new actions such as “Convert to table with Excel” and “View Microsoft 365 Profile Cards” have been added, streamlining workflows for users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
7. Legacy Control Panel features in Settings
Microsoft continues to transition legacy Control Panel features into the Settings app. Starting with build 27928, users can now add multiple clocks to the Notification Center, change the time server, and access formatting settings. The “Language & region” page has also been updated to include options for enabling “Unicode UTF-8 for worldwide language support” and more regional format settings.
8. Narrator with Braille
In a significant accessibility enhancement, builds 26220.5770 and 26120.5770 introduce a new Braille viewer within the Windows Narrator. This feature allows users to view output as it would appear on a Braille display, supporting educational needs. Users can access this feature by downloading a special package from the Settings menu under Accessibility.
9. Advanced Settings page
As part of build 27924, the “For developers” page has been replaced with a new “Advanced” page. This redesign not only aligns with the overall aesthetic of the operating system but also introduces new functionalities, including enabling long paths, virtual workspaces, and Git integration. Microsoft plans to roll out these changes with the upcoming September 2025 cumulative update.
More resources
For those looking to delve deeper into the capabilities of Windows 11, a wealth of how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips are available to help users maximize their experience with the operating system.
