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Windows 11’s huge July 14 update is loaded with new features — these are the 13 that matter most
Winsage
June 26, 2026

Windows 11’s huge July 14 update is loaded with new features — these are the 13 that matter most

Microsoft will launch the Windows 11 July 2026 Security Update on July 14, 2026, introducing new features and bug fixes. Key features include the Point-in-time Restore recovery feature, which allows users to revert to a stable system state using restore points, and enhancements to Bluetooth, network virtualization, and touchpad functionality. The update will be available for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, managed through Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) technology. The update enhances the "Pause updates" functionality with a calendar view for pausing updates for up to 35 days. The Magnifier tool will allow users to input exact zoom percentages, and printer installations will default to the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP). Location settings will be simplified, and File Explorer will see performance improvements, including new options on the Home page. Bluetooth enhancements will improve reliability and audio performance, while Phone Link will refine call handling between Windows 11 and smartphones. Voice Typing and Voice Access will be improved for real-time text refinement and support multiple languages. Networking improvements will focus on reliability and performance, particularly in virtualized environments, and touchpad customization options will allow adjustments to the right-click area.
Microsoft Releases a Record Seven Windows 11 Insider Builds
Winsage
June 12, 2026

Microsoft Releases a Record Seven Windows 11 Insider Builds

Microsoft's Windows Insider program has released seven Insider builds across all Channels, including two builds on the Beta and Release Preview Channels and three builds for the new Experimental Channel. The updates focus on the Experimental (25H2), Beta (25H2), and Release Preview (25H2) Channels. The new 26H1 builds mainly feature elements from the 25H2 builds and are intended for new ARM-based PCs. Key features include: - A less disruptive Windows Update experience requiring only one monthly restart. - Improved Windows Search capabilities for better typo handling. - A new screen tint accessibility feature to reduce eye strain. - Quieter Widgets that do not open on hover and have a smaller memory footprint. - Magnifier tool enhancements with preset zoom increments and direct input options. - Bluetooth connectivity improvements for better compatibility with select devices. - Voice Access and Voice Typing now available in French, German, and Spanish. - Customizable right-click settings for touchpads. The Release Preview Channel is testing an optional update for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, set for release in late June.
Windows quality update: May
Winsage
May 29, 2026

Windows quality update: May

Recent visits to Hyderabad and Taipei have reinforced Windows' commitment to improving user experience, with insights from local Windows Insiders informing preparations for the upcoming Build event. This month focuses on momentum in performance and refinement, with advancements in core functionalities like File Explorer and search capabilities, supported by architectural enhancements. New personalization features for the Taskbar and Start menu have been rolled out, allowing users to reposition the taskbar, choose icon alignment, and utilize app labels. The Start menu has been updated to better align with workflows, offering controls to show or hide sections and adjust size for privacy. The Driver Quality Initiative (DQI) was unveiled at WinHEC 2026 to improve driver quality, reliability, and security, along with Cloud Initiated Driver Recovery for better driver maintenance. Significant updates to File Explorer include improved reliability, readability, and usability, such as support for specific path formats and enhanced dropdown functionality. Accessibility enhancements include Voice Isolation in Voice Access to improve command recognition in noisy environments, expanded personalization options like screen tint adjustments, and new gesture controls for precision touchpads. The Microsoft Build keynote is scheduled for 9:30 AM PT on Tuesday, and a new podcast series, Inside Windows, has been launched to provide insights into ongoing work in Windows.
Valve Steam Controller Review
AppWizard
May 12, 2026

Valve Steam Controller Review

Valve's Steam Controller builds on insights from the Steam Deck and aims to enhance the PC gaming experience. It features an asymmetrical thumbstick layout, ergonomic design, and weighs 292 grams. The controller lacks a headphone jack but includes Grip Sense technology for gyroscope activation. Its charging system combines a 2.4 GHz wireless transmitter and magnetic charging dock, with a battery life rated at 35 hours. The controller offers extensive customization options, including dual trackpads, drift-resistant joysticks, and programmable buttons through Steam Input. It performs well across various games, although some non-Steam titles may require additional setup. The Steam Controller is designed for comfort and versatility, making it suitable for living room gaming, despite its premium price.
Windows 11 testers say new touchpad upgrades and File Explorer fixes finally make Insider builds feel smoother
Winsage
May 10, 2026

Windows 11 testers say new touchpad upgrades and File Explorer fixes finally make Insider builds feel smoother

Windows Insiders can check for new builds weekly, with Microsoft releasing four Insider builds that include various enhancements. The Beta Channel Insiders have not yet transitioned to the new Beta experience. Users in the Dev Channel moving to the Experimental Channel will receive Build 26300.8376, while those in the Canary 28000 series will also transition to Experimental, receiving Build 28020.2075. Insiders from the Canary 29500 series will be updated to Build 29585.1000. A free upgrade path to Windows 11 Pro Education from Windows 11 Home is available for K-12 educational settings, allowing institutions to manage devices effectively. This upgrade is one-way only. Build 26300.8376 introduces new gesturing functionalities for precision touchpads, including control over scroll/zoom speed and automatic scrolling. File Explorer has received updates for improved address bar functionality, more readable file size formatting, and refinements to the renaming experience. Build 28020.2075 includes improved typing reliability with the ADLaM keyboard and enhanced clipboard history performance. Font improvements have been made for the Leelawadee UI font family. Build 29585.1000 features a streamlined voice typing experience with the touch keyboard, reducing distractions.
Windows Insider builds ship with touchpad upgrades, File Explorer fixes, and a free EDU upgrade path
Winsage
May 10, 2026

Windows Insider builds ship with touchpad upgrades, File Explorer fixes, and a free EDU upgrade path

Windows Insiders are advised to set weekly reminders to check for new builds, as Microsoft has released four Insider builds with various enhancements, including updates to the Touchpad and Touch Keyboard experiences, and a new upgrade pathway for education users. The changes differ by Insider Channel, necessitating users to understand updates specific to their channel. The Windows Insider Program is being restructured, with Beta Channel Insiders yet to transition to the new experience. Insiders moving from the Dev Channel to the Experimental Channel will receive Build 26300.8376, while those from the Canary 28000 series will receive Build 28020.2075, and those from the Canary 29500 series will be updated to Build 29585.1000. Users should refer to release notes for detailed information on features and updates. A free upgrade path to Windows 11 Pro Education is now available for K-12 educational settings, allowing institutions to upgrade Windows 11 Home devices to Pro Education at no cost. This upgrade is one-way only. The Experimental Preview Build 26300.8376 introduces new gesturing functionalities for precision touchpads, including scroll/zoom speed control, automatic scrolling, accelerated scrolling, and single-finger scrolling. Additionally, File Explorer has received updates to improve reliability, readability, and usability.
Microsoft Issues New Windows Insider Program Builds
Winsage
May 8, 2026

Microsoft Issues New Windows Insider Program Builds

Microsoft has released pre-release builds of Windows 11 for participants in the Beta, Experimental, and Experimental Beta channels of the Windows Insider Program. The rollout of new Windows Insider Program changes is expanding, with a transition for Insiders in the Canary 29500 Series Channel and Beta Channel expected in the coming weeks. The latest builds include two enhancements: 1. Touchpad Improvements (in Experimental): New gesture options for precision touchpads, including adjustable scroll and zoom speeds, automatic scrolling, accelerated scrolling, and single-finger scrolling. 2. Free Upgrade Path to Windows 11 Pro Education for K-12 (in Experimental Beta): Windows Insiders in K-12 education can upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro Education at no additional cost, allowing schools to purchase PCs with Windows 11 Home and upgrade them for centralized management.
Microsoft brings a Linux-style window trick to Windows 11 via PowerToys, and I can't go back
Winsage
May 1, 2026

Microsoft brings a Linux-style window trick to Windows 11 via PowerToys, and I can’t go back

Microsoft's PowerToys version 0.99 introduces two new tools: Grab And Move and Power Display, along with enhancements to the Command Palette Dock. Grab And Move allows users to reposition application windows by holding the Alt key and dragging anywhere on the window, facilitating easier window management. Users can customize the activation key and toggle the feature off during gaming sessions. There are also options to exclude specific applications from using this feature. Power Display enables users to manage monitor settings directly from the system tray, including brightness, contrast, volume, rotation, and color temperature adjustments. It supports multi-monitor setups with DDC/CI standards and includes a Profiles option for saving specific monitor settings. The Command Palette Dock now features a compact mode and customization options for pinned commands, improving user accessibility and screen space utilization.
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