Beta Channel build Archives

Winsage

September 7, 2025

Windows tests em and en dash shortcuts in Insider builds

Writers can now easily type em dashes (—) and en dashes (–) on Windows using new keyboard shortcuts introduced in the latest Insider builds. The shortcuts are: - Windows key + dash key (-) for an en dash - Windows key + Shift + dash key (-) for an em dash These shortcuts are available in Dev channel build 26200.5761 or higher and Beta channel build 26120.5770 or higher. Users must enable these shortcuts via ViveTool, a utility for activating hidden Windows features. To do this, users need to download ViveTool, extract it, and run a command in an elevated command prompt. For those not using Insider builds, alternative methods include using ALT codes with a number pad: - ALT + 0150 for an en dash - ALT + 0151 for an em dash Users without a numeric keypad can install Microsoft PowerToys and enable the Quick Accent feature to select dashes visually.

Winsage

June 15, 2025

Microsoft Starts Testing New Settings AI Agent and Recall Export Experience

Microsoft is testing a new AI agent for Windows 11 within the Settings, available for Windows Insiders on Copilot+ PCs with the Dev build 26200.5651. Users in the European Economic Area (EEA) will have access to a revamped Recall export experience in the Beta channel build 26120.4441. The new features include the ability to reset Recall and erase all associated data, new Click to Do actions for Microsoft 365 Copilot and Teams, a larger clock option in the taskbar, improved Windows Share for OneDrive files (not available in the EEA), and enhancements to Voice Access for Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese. Insiders are receiving updates based on Windows 11 version 24H2, with version 25H2 expected later this year.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Microsoft is finally working on making PC migration painless with a new app

Microsoft is developing a new migration application to simplify data transfer from old PCs to new ones, as discovered in the Windows 11 Insider Beta build 22635.4945. The app is still in early stages, with only preliminary user interface elements visible. It will assist users in backing up existing data and transferring files, requiring both computers to be close and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. The migration process will involve pairing devices with a one-time password (OTP) and confirming the transfer. While mockups suggest potential design and functionality, the app is not yet fully functional, and there is no timeline for its release, although it is expected to be available to Windows Insiders before a wider public rollout.

Winsage

February 5, 2025

Windows 11 lock screen widgets get a much-needed boost, while desktop pinning remains ignored

Users can now customize lock screen widgets in Windows 11 with the latest Insider update on the Beta Channel, allowing them to select, reorder, and remove specific widgets. This feature is part of the Windows 11 23H2 Beta Channel build 22635.4870 (KB5050087). IT administrators can disable lock screen widgets through the Local Group Policy Editor without affecting their availability elsewhere. Currently, this feature is available only to Beta Channel Insiders in the European Economic Area (EEA), with plans for broader access in other regions. Users have requested additional features, such as the ability to pin widgets to the desktop, but Microsoft has not provided a timeline for these enhancements.

Winsage

October 25, 2024

KB5044377: Windows 11 Insider Beta channel build 22635.4435 has dynamic lighting changes

Microsoft has released a new build of Windows 11 (22635.4435, KB5044377) for Windows Insider Program Beta channel participants. Key enhancements include a new keyboard shortcut for launching applications as an administrator, updates to dynamic lighting settings, and various bug fixes. The ability to configure the Copilot key has been reinstated, with limitations on which apps can be launched for security and privacy reasons. Additional fixes address issues related to the taskbar, input devices, Bluetooth, product activation, collector sets, Windows kernel vulnerabilities, Windows Hello for Business, multi-function printers, Microsoft Teams, mobile operator settings, virtual switches, and WebView2 apps.

Winsage

October 18, 2024

Windows 11 Insider Beta Channel build 22635.4371 (KB504498) has app snap layout improvements

Microsoft has released a new Windows 11 update for Windows Insider Channel members, identified as build number 22635.4371 under KB504498. The update includes enhancements in app management and accessibility features. Key updates include: - Snap Enhancements: Improvements in app suggestions for snap layouts. - Narrator Updates: A new shortcut ("Narrator key + control + X") allows users to copy the last spoken content to the clipboard. Narrator will also read emails in the new Outlook app. - Fixes Implemented: Adjustments in File Explorer to prevent the search box from extending beyond the window's edge. - Narrator Performance Improvements: Resolved a slowdown issue after 15 minutes of use, fixed incorrect announcements for styled text, and ensured dialogs adhere to the 200% text scaling setting.

Winsage

September 20, 2024

Your laptop’s Windows Copilot key can be repurposed soon

Microsoft has introduced a new feature in the latest Beta Channel build (Build 22635.4225) of its Windows Insider program that allows users to remap the dedicated Copilot key on their laptops to launch alternative applications instead of the Copilot interface. This feature can be accessed through the Windows Settings menu under Personalization > Text Input settings. The rollout in the Beta Channel suggests it may transition to the Release Channel for everyday users soon. Initially, Copilot was part of the Windows 11 operating system but has since become a standalone application. The ability to reconfigure the Copilot key raises questions about Microsoft's commitment to the Copilot feature, as the company announced plans for the dedicated key only nine months ago.

Winsage

August 27, 2024

Windows 11 Insider Beta Channel build 22635.4082 (KB5041876) includes Lock screen changes

Microsoft has released a new Windows 11 build, 22635.4082, for Windows Insider Program participants in the Beta Channel, identified under KB5041876. The update includes enhancements to Lock screen media controls and various improvements. Changes and Improvements: - A new option allows users to disable suggestions for turning off notifications from specific applications. - The Lock screen now positions media controls at the lower center when media is playing. - The Delivery Optimization settings page has been redesigned. Fixes: - Resolved an issue causing explorer.exe to crash when closing applications from the taskbar. - Fixed a problem that caused the Start menu to crash upon launch for some users. - Addressed a memory leak issue after receiving specific notifications. - Removed the registry key related to NetJoinLegacyAccountReuse. Known Issues: - Ongoing work to resolve a crash issue with explorer.exe when interacting with archive files. - A fix is in progress for a crash in File Explorer when accessing the Home section. A temporary workaround is available using the Run dialog (WIN + R).

Winsage

August 12, 2024

Windows 11 users, good news – the Start menu could get a fresh new look to make your apps more manageable

Microsoft is testing a new ‘Category’ layout for the Start menu in Windows 11, which serves as an alternative to the traditional ‘All apps’ section. This layout features solid-colored squares organized in blocks of four and is part of a broader initiative that includes a grid-based layout. The Category layout has become somewhat functional in the latest Windows 11 Beta channel build, but it remains hidden within the system. The timeline for the rollout of this feature in the upcoming Windows 11 update, version 24H2, is uncertain.

Winsage

August 10, 2024

KB5041869: Microsoft restores simplified Windows 11 system tray after removing it

Microsoft has released a new Beta Channel build for Windows Insiders, designated as build 22635.4010 under KB5041869. This update restores the simplified system tray, which features a shortened date and time format and omits the notification bell icon. Users can toggle off the jump lists feature for taskbar apps. Fixes include resolving an issue with the Shift key causing new app instances to open and addressing a display issue in the Task Manager's GPU section in dark mode. Known issues include explorer.exe crashes when closing apps from the taskbar and loss of keyboard focus in File Explorer. The Paint application has been updated to version 11.2406.36.0, adding pen back button eraser support and pen support for lasso select. Users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub.