Hello Windows Insiders, today marks the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7961 (KB 5079382) to the Beta Channel, bringing with it a host of new features and improvements designed to enhance user experience.
Changes in Beta Channel builds and updates are categorized into two distinct sections: new features and improvements, including notable fixes. These updates are gradually rolled out for Insiders who have opted to receive the latest updates as they become available through Settings > Windows Update. For further details, please refer to the Reminders section at the end of this post.
New features gradually being rolled out with toggle on*
[Administrator Protection]
The reintroduction of administrator protection aims to safeguard free-floating admin rights for users with administrative privileges. This feature allows administrators to perform all necessary functions while utilizing just-in-time admin privileges. It is turned off by default but can be activated via OMA-URI in Intune or through group policy settings.
Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out with toggle on*
[Sharing]
In response to user feedback, we are refining the drag tray functionality. The updates include a smaller peek view, which minimizes accidental activations and simplifies the dismissal process when interacting near the top of the screen.
[File Explorer]
- Voice typing (activated by pressing Windows key plus H) is now available when renaming files in File Explorer.
- The previously noticeable white flash when launching new File Explorer windows or tabs has been eliminated, particularly when set to open to This PC. Additionally, white flashes during the resizing of File Explorer elements have been removed.
- We have enhanced the reliability of unblocking files downloaded from the internet, allowing for smoother previews within File Explorer.
Reminders for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel
- Updates are based on Windows 11, version 25H2, delivered through an enablement package (Build 26220.7961).
- Many features are rolled out using Controlled Feature Rollout technology, initially targeting a subset of Insiders and gradually expanding as we assess feedback.
- The desktop watermark located at the lower right corner of the desktop is a standard feature for Windows Insider pre-release builds.
- For those eager to receive features gradually rolled out to you, ensure the toggle is turned ON to access the latest updates via Settings > Windows Update. Over time, we will increase the rollout of features to all users with the toggle enabled. If the toggle remains off, new features will be introduced to your PC gradually as they become ready.
- It is important to note that some features and experiences included in these builds may not be released publicly, as we explore various concepts and gather feedback. Features may evolve, be removed, or replaced, and may not extend beyond the Windows Insiders program. Some of these innovations could appear in future Windows releases when they’re ready.
- Features currently under active development may not be fully localized, with localization occurring over time as features are finalized. Should you encounter localization issues in your language, we encourage you to report them through the Feedback Hub.
- For a comprehensive overview of which build is in which Insider channel, please visit Flight Hub.
Thank you,
Windows Insider Program Team
