Windows 11 preview build Archives

Winsage

May 12, 2026

Windows 11’s File Explorer is finally fixing an annoying file size quirk

Microsoft is reinstating the ‘Refresh’ and ‘Print’ options to the right-click context menu in Windows 11’s File Explorer in response to user feedback. These features are currently being tested in the Windows 11 preview Build 26300.8376, with a broader rollout expected soon. Additionally, file sizes in File Explorer will be displayed in megabytes or gigabytes for larger files, while smaller files will remain in kilobytes. These updates aim to improve user experience and are anticipated to be available to users in the coming weeks.

Winsage

May 4, 2026

Microsoft Debloats Windows 11 Widgets In Preview Builds, UI Significantly Improved

Windows 11 is undergoing enhancements under the initiative "Windows K2" in response to user criticism. The latest Preview Build 26300.8346 features a revamped widgets panel, introducing a new subsection titled “Widgets is quiet by default” to minimize distractions. Key changes include disabling open-on-hover for the widgets panel, turning off taskbar badging, limiting the widgets experience to the first launch, and minimizing taskbar alerts. These adjustments aim to create a more coherent presentation of information and address critiques of Windows 11’s user interface. Microsoft is facing competition from macOS and Linux, and concerns over reliability and performance have affected Windows 11’s reputation.

Winsage

February 28, 2026

Microsoft testing Windows 11 batch file security improvements

Microsoft has released new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds that enhance security and performance for batch files and CMD scripts. IT administrators can now activate a secure processing mode by adding the LockBatchFilesInUse registry value, which prevents modifications to batch files while they are running. This update also requires signature validation only once per batch file, improving performance. Additionally, the Shared Audio feature has been refined, allowing users to share audio across multiple devices with individual volume sliders and a new taskbar indicator. The feature now supports more Bluetooth LE Audio accessories, including Samsung Galaxy Buds 4, Sony WF-1000XM6, and Xbox Wireless Headset. These updates are available for Windows Insiders in the Beta and Dev channels with specific preview builds installed.

Winsage

January 11, 2026

Microsoft’s first Windows 11 preview build of 2026 brings more Copilot+ PC features to everyone

Microsoft has released its first Windows 11 preview build of the year, featuring an enhancement to the Narrator app that allows it to use Copilot for detailed image descriptions. This capability, previously available only to Copilot+ users, is now accessible to all Windows 11 devices, aiding blind and low-vision users. Additionally, Microsoft has improved the Cross Device Resume capability by introducing a new integration path via the Windows Notification System (WNS). The latest preview build is 26220.7535 (KB5072046) and is available through Windows Update for Insiders in the Dev or Beta Channel. Users are advised to switch to the Beta Channel to remain on the current 25H2 release, as the Dev Channel will soon change to higher build numbers, removing the option to switch between channels.

Winsage

November 26, 2025

Microsoft may soon let you update all your apps directly from Windows 11’s Settings

Microsoft is developing a new app updating feature in the latest Windows 11 preview build that aims to simplify the update process for users. This feature will provide a centralized app updating page, similar to Linux's KDE Discover or the Google Play Store, allowing users to monitor and manage updates more efficiently. The interface will include a status tracker for available updates, a "Check for updates" button, and customizable options for the update process. There are concerns that the functionality may be limited to apps installed via the Microsoft Store, which could restrict its effectiveness. If expanded to include third-party applications, it could significantly enhance how Windows users maintain their systems.

Winsage

November 25, 2025

Microsoft says it’s fixing a baffling way in which Windows 11 is much slower than Windows 10 – and it’s about time

Microsoft has released a new preview build of Windows 11 (build 26220.7271) in the Dev and Beta channels, focusing on improving File Explorer performance and the right-click menu. Key features include: - A preloading feature for File Explorer that allows it to load in the background during Windows 11 startup, reducing sluggishness when accessing folders for the first time. - A streamlined right-click menu in File Explorer, condensing options and relocating actions like 'Compress to ZIP' and 'Set as Desktop Background' to a new 'Manage file' flyout for better organization. Additionally, Microsoft is testing the Xbox Full Screen Experience for Windows 11 PCs, indicating potential future gaming feature integration. Users can opt to disable the preloading feature if desired.

Winsage

November 21, 2025

Microsoft is testing a Windows 11 tweak that preloads File Explorer in the background to make it faster

Microsoft is introducing a feature in Windows 11 that preloads File Explorer in the background to improve its launch performance. This change aims to reduce the delay users experience when opening File Explorer from a cold start, allowing the interface to load almost instantaneously. Windows president Pavan Davuluri acknowledged user feedback regarding performance and confirmed that enhancements are being made to the platform beyond recent AI advancements.

Winsage

September 30, 2025

Saved you a click: The latest Windows 11 24H2 Insider preview build offers internet speed check right from the taskbar

Bath is a city in the UK known for its Georgian architecture, but residents often face internet connectivity issues in listed buildings. The latest Windows 11 preview build (26220.6760) introduces an internet speed check feature accessible from the taskbar, currently available to Windows Insiders running version 24H2. Microsoft has partnered with Ookla since 2023 to integrate a speed test widget into Bing, and this new feature serves as a shortcut to that tool. Additionally, Microsoft will automatically install its AI assistant, Copilot, with Microsoft 365 starting in October, with no opt-out option for users. The File Explorer Search Box will receive updates to enhance search capabilities, allowing users to search by content description. The preview build includes several fixes and features but is not considered a groundbreaking update. Windows 11 surpassed Windows 10 in popularity in July, and official support for Windows 10 will end in October.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

Microsoft finally fixes Windows 11’s broken Dark mode after nearly a decade – The Times of India

Microsoft is updating dark mode in Windows 11 to address inconsistencies that have persisted since 2016. Recent preview build 26100.5061 shows dark themes applied to file operation dialogs, which previously remained bright. While the window backgrounds are now dark gray, some buttons still appear lighter, indicating ongoing work. The updates may be included in the Windows 11 25H2 update later this year. Despite the improvements, other legacy interface elements like the Registry Editor and Group Policy windows still need to be addressed for a consistent dark mode experience.

Winsage

August 5, 2025

Windows 11’s taskbar could be next for an AI overhaul – but I just don’t see the point

Microsoft is exploring the integration of artificial intelligence into the Windows 11 taskbar, with indications of a 'Taskbar Companion' feature and references to 'agentic companions.' A recent Windows 11 preview build includes a string related to managing the visibility of these AI companions on the taskbar. The AI capabilities may mirror those found in the Settings app for Copilot+ PCs, which allows for intelligent searches. Potential functionalities could include managing notifications, calendar events, or providing personalized application recommendations. However, the exact features and their utility remain unclear.