Preview build Archives

Winsage

September 19, 2026

Windows 11 is getting a better way to find your mouse cursor, and we tried it

Microsoft has released a modernized version of the Mouse Indicator in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26340.9502 on September 18, 2026. This update features a new animation that can be activated through Accessibility settings, allowing users to keep the indicator on until they press the Esc key. Users can choose to activate the Mouse Indicator with a single or double Ctrl press. The previous version displayed a simplistic circle around the pointer briefly, while the new version offers a smoother, more dynamic animation. The feature is currently available only in the Insider build for the Experimental channel, and users can enable it by navigating to Settings > Accessibility > Mouse pointer and touch > Mouse indicator.

Winsage

September 14, 2026

Windows 11 Update Finally Fixes A Classic Feature That Should Have Never Been Changed

Many users are transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 but are facing issues, leading some to consider alternatives like Linux due to performance, privacy, and AI integration concerns. The right-click menu in Windows 11 has been criticized for being cluttered and slow. Microsoft is addressing these issues with an update to streamline the context menu, making it more organized and faster-loading. This redesigned menu is currently available to users of the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26340.9212, released on August 17, 2026, with broader availability expected in the upcoming Windows 11 version 26H2 or later updates. The new context menu will feature a lighter design with frequently used functions like Cut, Copy, and Rename at the top, and options will be simplified and reorganized. Users will also be able to customize their right-click menus through the Settings menu and revert to the traditional Windows 10 context menus if desired.

Winsage

September 13, 2026

Microsoft is finally tackling Windows 11’s annoying Bluetooth problem

Microsoft has released updates to enhance Bluetooth functionality in Windows 11, specifically in the Insider Release Preview Build 26100.9539/26200.9539 for versions 24H2 and 25H2. Key improvements include: - Improved connection stability to minimize disruptions. - Enhanced device compatibility for a broader range of devices. - A streamlined pairing process for quicker and more intuitive connections. - Bug fixes addressing previous performance issues.

Winsage

September 12, 2026

Windows 11’s useless Copilot key finally does something, you can map it to right-click

Recent updates from Microsoft allow users to remap the Copilot key on Windows 11 to either the Right Ctrl key or the Context Menu key. This feature is part of the Release Preview Build 26100.9539 for 24H2 and 26200.9539 for 25H2, rolled out on September 10, 2026. Users can access this remapping option under Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard. The Copilot key was introduced in January 2024 but received criticism for being cumbersome. Microsoft acknowledged the challenges posed by the Copilot key, particularly for users relying on the Right Ctrl or Context Menu keys for shortcuts and assistive technologies. If remapped to the Right Ctrl key, certain shortcut combinations may not function as expected. The feature is expected to be fully rolled out on October 12, 2026.

Winsage

September 11, 2026

Windows 11 can now reinstall itself from the cloud — Cloud Rebuild revives dead systems without secondary boot media, wipes broken installation and downloads a fresh copy of the OS

Microsoft has introduced Cloud Rebuild, a new recovery feature for Windows 11 users, available in beta through the Windows 11 Insider Beta Preview Build 26220.9343. Cloud Rebuild simplifies the reinstallation process by downloading a fresh image of Windows and necessary drivers via Windows Update, independent of the current installation's health. Users can access it through the Windows Recovery Environment by selecting Troubleshoot > Recovery and uninstall > Cloud rebuild. The feature also includes enhanced networking support, allowing PCs to connect to the internet using saved Wi-Fi profiles during recovery. Once connected, Cloud Rebuild checks for the appropriate Windows build and prompts users to confirm details before proceeding with reinstallation.

Winsage

September 9, 2026

No more USB installation: Windows 11 Insiders now able to fully reset their system via cloud download even when the OS won’t boot

The Windows 11 Beta Preview Build version 26220.9343 has introduced a new recovery option called "cloud rebuild," which allows users to efficiently restore their operating system. This feature reflects Microsoft's commitment to enhancing user experience and responsiveness to feedback.

Winsage

August 29, 2026

Windows 11 Now Supports Emoji 17.0

Microsoft has begun rolling out Emoji 17.0 support for select users via a Windows 11 Release Preview update, which includes 163 new emojis—13 new concepts and 150 skin tone variations. This update is part of a servicing update leading to the upcoming Windows 11 version 26H2. The 2D Fluent emoji set has also been updated, but the 3D Fluent design is now the standard experience across Windows 11. Several emoji designs have been modified for consistency with other platforms, including changes to the Saluting Face, Face with Peeking Eye, and others. The update is available as a complimentary upgrade for select users in specific regions, with a wider rollout expected soon. Users on Windows Insider builds may have already accessed Emoji 17.0 support.

AppWizard

August 29, 2026

I played just one hour of Total War: Warhammer 40,000 and it was the highlight of my year

Creative Assembly revealed new details about Total War: Warhammer 40,000 during Gamescom. The game features a dynamic gameplay experience, where the battlefield evolves and players must adapt their strategies. Positioning is crucial, with options for flanking, distractions, and breaching defenses. The game retains core Total War mechanics while introducing new features and emphasizing ranged combat. Players can enjoy the chaos of battle, even without a background in the Warhammer universe. The preview session provided an engaging experience that left players excited about the game's future.

Winsage

August 28, 2026

Windows Search still can’t find half my files, because Microsoft fixed the wrong part

Windows 11's native Search feature has been improved with a new indexing system that automatically indexes frequently accessed folders. The latest build, 26100.9267, allows search results to appear after two keystrokes and is more forgiving of typographical errors. Users can choose between web or store suggestions. However, issues persist, such as files remaining invisible in indexed folders. Users have two indexing options: Classic mode, which covers limited locations, and Enhanced mode, which indexes all partitions but may affect battery life and CPU usage. Many users prefer third-party alternatives like Everything, which indexes files directly from the NTFS Master File Table without requiring mode selection. Despite improvements, the overall search experience in Windows remains unsatisfactory.

Winsage

August 26, 2026

Microsoft tests new privacy controls for Windows 11 desktop apps

Microsoft is enhancing privacy controls in Windows 11, allowing users to manage camera, microphone, and location permissions for individual desktop applications. This feature is being tested in the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26340.9233. Users can access these settings through Settings > Privacy & security > Camera, Microphone, or Location, where they can grant or revoke access. Microsoft advises users to only grant access to trusted applications. This update follows a previous announcement about smartphone-style app permission prompts, aiming to give users more control over their personal data and device features. The rollout of these features will occur in phases, with adjustments based on user feedback. Additionally, Microsoft is testing a new accessibility setting to automatically maximize app windows upon opening.