Canary and Beta channels Archives

Winsage

July 18, 2025

Top 6 new features that landed on the Windows 11 Insider Program during the first half of July 2025

During the first half of July 2025, Microsoft released at least six preview builds for Windows 11, including four in the Canary and Beta Channels for version 24H2 and two in the Dev Channel for version 25H2. Notable features introduced include: 1. Quick Machine Recovery (QMR): A feature in build 27898 that minimizes downtime during boot failures by detecting and resolving issues via the Windows Recovery Environment and Windows Update. It is enabled by default on Windows 11 Home and can be configured on Windows 11 Pro. 2. Adaptive Energy Saver: An option in the Energy Saver mode that automatically activates based on system telemetry, available on devices with battery backup starting with build 27898. 3. App Permission Dialog: A redesigned modal that appears centrally on the screen when an app requests special permissions, introduced in build 27898. 4. Administrator Protection: A security feature that generates an authorization dialog for unsigned or untrusted applications seeking elevation, enabling it through Windows Security settings. 5. Passkeys with External Providers: Support for third-party passkey providers, starting with build 26200.5670, allowing users to create and use passkeys with 1Password. 6. Click to Do Image Description: An updated feature in build 26200.5702 that uses AI to describe images, available for Copilot+ PCs, with future support anticipated for Intel and AMD systems.

Winsage

September 20, 2024

Maybe Microsoft is listening: It looks like ads could get easier to turn off in Windows 11

Windows 11 has introduced a new 'Recommendation & Offers' page in the Privacy & Security panel, replacing the previous 'General' options page. This update includes a 'Personalized offers' toggle that allows users to receive tailored ads, tips, and recommendations based on their interactions with the operating system. The feature was previously located under 'Diagnostic data' as 'Tailored experiences.' The rebranding aims to improve user understanding of ad preferences and makes it easier to disable ads, tips, and recommendations. The functionality of the toggle remains the same, allowing users to opt out of ads based on their Windows activity.

Winsage

July 3, 2024

Microsoft says we “can assume” there will be no new Windows Insider builds this week

Microsoft released new Windows Insider Program builds for Windows 11 in the Canary and Beta channels, as well as a new Windows Server Insider build. Members of the Dev channel did not receive a new build, and some exciting features introduced to them were abruptly halted on June 30. Senior Program Manager Brandon LeBlanc indicated that there would likely be no new flights for the week ending on July 5. Patch Tuesday on July 9 will bring official updates containing security patches and PC enhancements for Windows 10 and 11 users.