experimental features Archives

AppWizard

May 6, 2026

Threads adds direct messaging access on desktop

Threads has rolled out its messaging feature on the desktop version of the app, allowing users to access DMs through the left sidebar. This feature aims to enhance communication on the platform and was the most requested upgrade since messaging was introduced in July. Threads Chief Connor Hayes emphasized the importance of facilitating private discussions. Initially, there were doubts about incorporating a DM feature due to Meta's strategy to unify its messaging platforms. After a legal victory, Meta shifted focus and introduced Threads DMs, allowing for new experimental features such as interactive elements and DM links.

AppWizard

April 29, 2026

Dial up the chaos in testing

Geysers are a new feature in Minecraft that create vertical jets of sulfurous water when a magma block generates beneath a sulfur block submerged under one to four blocks of water. Players can experience these geysers by enabling snapshots in Minecraft: Java Edition or activating experimental features in Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. Feedback from players is encouraged to help shape the development of these features.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Microsoft rolls out revamped Windows Insider Program

Microsoft is overhauling its Windows Insider Program to enhance the reliability of Windows 11 and improve user feedback responsiveness. The program will now consist of two channels: Experimental, which replaces the Dev and Canary channels for testing experimental features, and Beta, which will provide immediate access to all features listed in the release notes without gradual rollouts. The transition will occur in phases, starting with users in the Dev Channel moving to Experimental. Users from the Canary Channel will also be transitioned to specific versions of the Experimental channel. Beta Channel users will experience a new Beta setup, with minor adjustments possible. Microsoft is updating build details, with the latest builds including Build 26220.8283 for Beta, Build 26300.8289 for Experimental, Build 28020.1873 for Experimental 26H1, and Build 29576.1000 for Experimental Future Platforms. Additionally, a new Windows Update experience will allow users to pause updates and avoid unexpected reboots.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

Minecraft Chaos Cubed update: Release date, features and more

Mojang Studios is releasing the Chaos Cubed update, version 26.2 of Minecraft, in mid to late June 2026. This update introduces the Sulfur Caves biome and the Sulfur Cube mob, enhancing the underground experience of the Overworld. The Sulfur Caves feature toxic gases, hot pools, and new building blocks, including vibrant yellow Sulfur and deep red Cinnabar. The Sulfur Cube is a passive mob that changes its properties based on absorbed blocks, enabling new gameplay mechanics. This update follows the Tiny Takeover update and is part of Mojang's quarterly release schedule.

Winsage

April 4, 2026

Windows 11 is getting a native Feature Flags page, and it could make Vivetool obsolete

Microsoft is set to introduce a "Feature Flags" page in Windows 11 that will allow users to enable experimental features more easily. Currently, users rely on the third-party application Vivetool to access hidden functionalities in preview builds. The Feature Flags page is still in an experimental phase and not yet active. It was discovered by a user known as PhantomOfEarth, who has been using Vivetool. The page aims to provide a list of features under development, but it may only display features closer to completion, potentially keeping some tools hidden.

AppWizard

April 3, 2026

Slay the Spire 2’s team is already cooking on 3 ideas for new game modes, each offering ‘ways to interact with Slay the Spire that don’t exist right now’

Casey Yano, co-founder of Mega Crit, revealed that Slay the Spire 2 will enter early access in the next year or two and will feature three new modes, including a co-op mode. This addition aims to attract both seasoned players and newcomers. The team is exploring new gameplay dynamics, which may include collaborative gameplay, dynamic challenges, and experimental features that could surprise players.

Winsage

March 30, 2026

If Microsoft really wants to fix Windows 11, it should do these four things ASAP

Microsoft's President of Windows + Devices, Pavan Davaluri, communicated a renewed commitment to quality in Windows 11 through an open letter to Windows Insiders, emphasizing user experience improvements in responsiveness, reliability, and update control. The Windows Insider Program is suggested to be revitalized by reconnecting channels with public releases, decoupling quality testing from feature testing, eliminating Controlled Feature Rollout for public releases to ensure uniform user experiences, and increasing transparency about decision-making processes.

Winsage

March 25, 2026

Windows 11 give less AI and more control over in Taskbar

Microsoft is set to release a significant update for Windows 11, incorporating user feedback. The update will reduce access points to Copilot in applications like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets, and Notepad, focusing on AI features that provide genuine utility. The taskbar will be customizable, allowing users to position it at the top or sides of their screens, and mandatory installations of system updates before restarting will be eliminated. Enhancements to File Explorer will improve launch speed and reliability. The update aims to optimize overall performance by reducing memory usage and enhancing system stability, driver quality, and USB/Bluetooth connections. This response addresses previous user issues, including shutdown problems and Outlook instability, which have led some to consider alternative operating systems. The update aims to offer less intrusive AI, more customization options, and improved system performance.

Winsage

March 19, 2026

AI Fatigue: Microsoft Pulls Back on Putting Microsoft Copilot Everywhere in Windows 11

Microsoft has decided to abandon plans to integrate Copilot more deeply into Windows 11 following user complaints. Features that would have introduced AI-driven notifications and enhancements are no longer being pursued. The company acknowledged user pain points and is shifting focus towards core stability fixes scheduled for 2026. Additionally, the launch of Windows Recall in 2024 faced privacy issues, leading to a revised version that includes data encryption and user authentication. Microsoft has also allowed administrators on Pro and Enterprise systems to uninstall the Copilot app under certain conditions, reflecting a response to user feedback and past update failures.

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Windows 11 25H2: When Release Preview suddenly plays beta

Users of Windows 11 25H2 in the Release Preview channel experienced an unexpected transition to the Beta channel after installing Build 26200.7921, as the Release Preview option disappeared from the selection menu due to a server configuration issue. This change forced Windows Update to download version 26220.7872 without user consent. The distinction between the channels is significant, with Release Preview operating within the 26200 band and Beta in the 26220 band. On February 25, 2026, Microsoft restored the Release Preview channel, allowing users to revert to it through a manual update. The Insider Program has evolved into a complex system involving build bands, server-side feature gates, telemetry evaluation, and dynamic channel assignment, which can lead to misconfigurations. Best practices for participants include regularly checking for updates, managing automatic installations, and maintaining recovery snapshots.