Windows 11 build Archives

Winsage

January 28, 2026

Windows 11 26H2: Expected features, platform changes, and potential release schedule

Windows 11 follows an annual feature update schedule, with the 26H2 update expected to launch in late 2026. This update will be the next major version after 25H2 and will continue to use the Germanium platform. It may function as an enablement package, activating existing features rather than introducing new ones. Anticipated features include increased AI capabilities in applications like Paint and Notepad, refined dark mode options, a revamped Run dialogue box, an AI-powered search feature, and the Xbox Full Screen experience. The build number will increase to 26300. The 26H2 update is projected for a September or October release in 2026.

Winsage

January 17, 2026

A bright idea: Latest Windows Insider build addresses file explorer’s ‘flash bang’ bug

Windows Insiders are receiving an update with Windows 11 build 28020.1371, which addresses a 'flash bang' effect in dark mode that has been troubling users, particularly on large OLED monitors. The update resolves an issue causing File Explorer to show a white flash when navigating between pages. It also introduces features such as Bluetooth LE audio support for two pairs of headphones and an internet speed check from the taskbar. Additionally, the Copilot app has been updated to version 1.25095.161. There are discussions about the reluctance of Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 due to stringent system requirements, although tools like Rufus allow some to bypass these limitations.

Winsage

December 28, 2025

Microsoft tests File Explorer search optimisation to reduce RAM usage in Windows 11

Microsoft is enhancing the Windows 11 File Explorer to reduce its memory usage, currently being tested in Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 and above for Insider preview participants. The updates aim to optimize search functionality by eliminating duplicate file indexing operations, which have historically caused high RAM and CPU consumption. Additionally, Microsoft is refining the File Explorer interface by relocating less frequently used options in the right-click context menu into a dedicated sub-menu, labeled either “Manage file” or “Other actions.” A broader rollout of these updates is expected around late January or February.

Winsage

December 26, 2025

Microsoft says Windows 11 File Explorer will soon use less RAM when you search files

Windows 11 is updating its File Explorer to improve search efficiency and reduce memory usage during file searches, currently being tested in Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 for Windows Insider participants. The new search functionality eliminates duplicate file indexing operations, resulting in faster searches and lower system resource usage. The File Explorer Search relies on the Windows Search Indexer, which will now avoid redundant indexing, leading to reduced disk I/O, lower CPU cycles, and decreased RAM usage. Additionally, Microsoft is decluttering the context menu by relocating features like “Compress to” and “Copy as path” into a new sub-menu called “Manage file,” or “Other actions” on different machines. These updates are expected to be rolled out by the end of January or in February.

Winsage

December 10, 2025

A staple Windows 11 is finally being given a modern, sleek design

The upcoming Windows 11 Build 26534 will introduce a redesigned Run dialogue featuring a modern interface with subtle edges and updated styling. Users will be able to access previous commands directly above the input box, and the new design is optimized for Dark Mode. However, the 'Browse' button will be absent, and there are concerns about potential performance issues compared to the previous version. Users will have the option to disable the new dialogue, which may be turned off by default.

Winsage

December 9, 2025

Windows PC gaming in 2025: Handheld innovation, Arm progress and DirectX advances

Windows has been a key platform for PC gaming, evolving significantly by 2025 with advancements in handheld gaming and performance. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, powered by AMD Ryzen Z2 Series processors, were introduced, enhancing handheld gaming experiences. The Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE) was launched for these devices, optimizing gaming interfaces. Advanced Shader Delivery (ASD) was implemented, reducing load times by over 80% for some titles. System-level performance improvements included tuned power management and lower CPU overhead. Windows also focused on Arm devices, enabling local game installations through the Xbox PC app and expanding compatibility with the Prism emulator. Native anti-cheat support was introduced for Arm devices, enhancing competitive gaming. DirectX 12 advancements included features that improved ray tracing performance by up to 2.3×. Bluetooth LE Audio support was added to enhance audio quality for gamers. Upcoming innovations include expanding FSE to more Windows devices, further ASD support, and a preview of Auto Super Resolution for improved visuals in games.

Winsage

December 1, 2025

Microsoft Warns: Windows 11 Agentic Features May Hallucinate

Windows 11 will introduce "Experimental agentic features" with the installation of Build 26220.7262, which users must manually enable. These features are in an experimental phase and may affect device performance. Microsoft warns of potential security vulnerabilities, particularly from emerging attack techniques like cross-prompt injection, which can lead to harmful commands being executed. The agents operate within an "Agentic Workspace" with scoped, auditable accounts, but unlike Windows Sandbox, they persist across sessions, increasing the attack surface. By default, agents have read and write access to common folders, which presents additional vulnerabilities. Microsoft is working on improving security measures, including more granular permissions and defenses against prompt injection.

Winsage

November 19, 2025

Windows 11’s November Insider update brings new features and reveals a new version

Microsoft has unveiled several preview builds for Windows 11 in November 2025, including versions 25H2 and 26H1. The notable updates include: - Windows 11 build 26220.7070 introduces a redesigned Widgets board with a new "Discover" section, improved navigation, and alert badges on icons. - The Quick Machine Recovery feature now scans for fixes only once and offers alternative recovery options if no solution is found. - Smart App Control can now be toggled on or off without reinstalling Windows 11. - New widget options have been added to the Lock Screen settings, allowing customization of displayed widgets. - A drag tray feature in the Canary Channel simplifies file sharing from File Explorer or the desktop. - Build 28000 in the Canary Channel is the first preview of Windows 11 version 26H1, focusing on compatibility with newer hardware. - New agentic AI components are being integrated into Windows 11, allowing applications like Copilot to automate tasks. - Haptic feedback capabilities have been introduced for digital pen users. - The Narrator and Magnifier features now use high-definition voices for improved clarity and support structured math reading in Word.

Winsage

November 19, 2025

New Windows 11 AI agents can work in the background but create new security risks

Microsoft has introduced "experimental agentic features" in the latest Windows 11 build for Windows Insider Program testers, which includes a feature called Copilot Actions. These agentic features are designed to autonomously perform tasks such as organizing files, scheduling meetings, and sending emails, acting as an "active digital collaborator" to enhance user productivity. The features are currently optional, off by default, and available only in early test builds. To address potential risks, Microsoft has implemented a strategy where AI agents operate under separate user accounts, ensuring they cannot make significant system changes without user approval. Agents maintain activity logs for accountability, and users can supervise their operations.

Winsage

November 18, 2025

Windows Insider Program Releases Copilot Actions, New Release Preview Builds

The Windows Insider Program has introduced Copilot Actions, an AI feature in the Copilot app for Windows 11, allowing users to specify tasks for an AI agent to perform. This feature is currently experimental and requires the latest version of the Copilot app (1.25112.74 or higher) to access. Additionally, new Release Preview builds for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 have been released, transitioning users to build 26200.7296 (25H2) or 26100.7296 (24H2) with cumulative update KB5070311. Key features in these builds include Windows Studio Effects for USB webcams, enhancements to Click to Do, improvements in the Agent in Settings, updates to File Explorer, Desktop Spotlight enhancements, Drag Tray improvements, Settings updates, Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security for external fingerprint sensors, Share enhancements for OneDrive files, mobile device management improvements, Quick Machine Recovery updates, and Widgets enhancements. A new Canary build for Windows 11 version 26H1 (build 28000.1199) is also available, but it does not introduce new features or significant changes.