Windows 11 beta Archives

Winsage

June 10, 2026

Windows 11 Beta Build 26220.8575: Microsoft fixes audio, Settings, and annoying freezes

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8575 on June 8, 2026, focusing on stability rather than new features. This build introduces the ability to extend update pauses indefinitely, which is important for maintaining system integrity in test environments. It also fixes an audio malfunction affecting some users and improves the reliability of the “Settings > Apps > Installed apps” feature. Additionally, the build addresses freezing issues in core applications like Search and Notepad. The Beta channel has been restructured to provide more stability and predictability, with features no longer rolled out gradually. Overall, this build enhances update management, resolves audio issues, stabilizes app handling, and addresses freezes in essential components.

Winsage

June 9, 2026

Microsoft launches new Windows 11 Beta channel for next-gen Arm PCs powered by Snapdragon X2 and RTX Spark chips

Microsoft has launched a new Beta channel for Windows 11 version 26H1 devices, allowing differentiation between experimental and beta features, similar to the existing setup for version 25H2. This Beta channel is the first to fully support Snapdragon X2 and RTX Spark PCs. Previously, only version 25H2 had access to the Beta channel, while version 26H1 users were limited to the Experimental Channel, which features less stable and early-stage developments. Currently, Windows 11 versions 25H1 and 26H1 are coexisting, with efforts to achieve feature parity between them, particularly to enhance support for next-generation Arm System on Chips from Qualcomm and NVIDIA.

Winsage

April 7, 2026

Windows 11 beta introduces haptic feedback support for mice and touchpads

Members of the Windows Insider Program are testing a new Windows 11 update that introduces haptic feedback support for compatible mice and touchpads. This update provides subtle vibrations during desktop activities, enhancing user interactions. The haptic feedback activates during actions like window snapping and resizing, offering tactile confirmation for tasks. Users can customize or disable these responses through Windows Settings. The update also includes improvements to the initial setup process and enhanced startup performance for applications. A broader release is expected later this spring, pending feedback from testers.

Winsage

September 30, 2025

Windows 11’s new beta update removes a feature for seemingly no reason

The Windows 11 Beta and Dev builds have removed Emoji 16.0 without explanation. A built-in network speed test has been added to the taskbar, allowing users to assess network performance. A new Microsoft 365 Copilot page has been integrated into the Get Started experience for users with an active Microsoft 365 subscription. Improvements to Windows Search are being rolled out, particularly for Copilot+ PCs. New StorageProvider APIs for cloud providers have been introduced in File Explorer. A new setting in voice access allows for customizable delays before executing commands. Various fixes have been implemented, including issues with screen readers, battery icon syncing, and crashes in Settings. Known issues include problems with Click to Do, taskbar animations, search results, camera previews with Windows Studio Effects, and Xbox Controllers experiencing bugchecks.

Winsage

September 7, 2025

Microsoft makes it easier for Windows 11 users to type em and en dashes with keyboard shortcuts

Recent updates in the Insider builds of Windows 11 have introduced new keyboard shortcuts for inserting em dashes and en dashes. These shortcuts are available in Windows 11 Dev build 26200.5761 or higher and Windows 11 Beta build 26120.5770 or higher. Users need to enable these features using a tool called ViVeTool by running the command vivetool /enable /id:58422150. The new shortcuts are as follows: Windows key + dash key (-) for en dash and Windows key + Shift + dash key (-) for em dash.

Winsage

August 9, 2025

Windows 11’s annoying post-installation prompts are being simplified

Microsoft has updated the beta version of Windows 11 to improve the installation process by redesigning the Second Chance Out-of-Box Experience (SCOOBE). The new SCOOBE features a single-screen interface with a concise list of toggles for optional features and buttons labeled “Keep current settings” and “Accept and continue,” allowing users to bypass multiple prompts and transition more quickly to their desktop. This change is particularly beneficial for users who frequently reset their Windows installations. Microsoft states that some Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels will see this refreshed SCOOBE screen, which aims to be more intuitive and streamlined.

Winsage

August 3, 2025

If you thought Microsoft wouldn’t add AI to the Windows taskbar, it may yet prove you wrong

Microsoft is exploring the introduction of AI functionalities within the Windows 11 taskbar, as indicated by recent findings from beta builds. Code explorers have discovered references to a "Taskbar Companion," suggesting a potential widget system that could utilize AI to enhance user experience. The concept of "agentic companions," which refers to AI that can take initiative with minimal user input, was first identified in Windows Server Build 26454. If implemented, these companions could provide AI-powered widgets such as a news aggregator, app recommendations, and suggestions for Xbox Game Pass games.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

The newest Windows 11 Beta and Dev builds make searching for images a lot easier

Microsoft has introduced a grid view feature in the Windows 11 Beta and Dev branches that enhances the image search experience by displaying thumbnails of search results, making it easier for users to identify and locate desired images. Other updates include configuration options for lock screen widgets, expanded notification center functionality for secondary monitors, and a fix for CPU reporting in Task Manager.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Microsoft unveils big Windows Recall update — now showcases your most used apps and websites

Microsoft has released a new preview build of Windows 11, featuring an updated version of the Windows Recall app. The app now includes a redesigned home page that showcases recent snapshots and highlights snapshots from the user's three most frequently used apps and websites, based on the past 24 hours. The new interface aims to enhance user experience by making it easier to navigate previous tasks. Currently, the app is being tested among Insiders in the Windows 11 Beta and Dev Channels, with a wider rollout expected soon. Additionally, Microsoft is introducing features for Copilot+ PCs that require a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) of 40+ tops, including an AI model named Mu, which will allow users to search for or describe settings using natural language.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

The Windows 11 beta build adds a new UI effect, and people already hate it

The recent beta update for Windows 11 introduced a new touchscreen effect where a trail of bubbles follows the user's finger movement. User feedback has been largely negative, with many comparing the effect to "defect monitor ghosting" and expressing a preference for the previous design. Some users have suggested that Microsoft should allow an option to revert to the old touch input visuals. There is also a growing concern among users about the overall direction of Windows 11, with some feeling that certain aspects are not improving.