As July draws to a close, Microsoft has been busy refining Windows 11, unveiling a series of enhancements that promise to streamline user experience. The latter half of the month saw the introduction of several notable features, many of which echo improvements from previous builds, as the company works to harmonize its various channels. Key updates include a revamped Start menu, intuitive touchpad gestures, an overhauled Account Control interface, and enhancements to File Explorer, among others. Additionally, adjustments to Widgets and Windows Search have been rolled out, further enriching the user experience.
Biggest improvements from the Windows Insider Program in July 2026
Here are the standout changes introduced by Microsoft since the last update.
Windows Search Automatic Locations
The latest build, 26300.9032, brings an updated version of Windows Search that intelligently identifies and searches additional folder locations based on user activity. This feature, aptly named “Automatically find additional relevant locations,” leverages signals from frequently accessed files and locations, simplifying the search process without the need for manual indexing. Users can find this option under Settings > Privacy & security > Search.
Phone Link Changes
In build 26300.9032, the Phone Link companion flyout in the Start menu has been enhanced, allowing users to hover over recent messages or notifications in the “Recent” section for a quick preview. This feature requires the Phone Link app version 1.26021.3.0 or higher.
Adaptive Hibernate Policy Update
The Experimental channel’s build 26300.9032 introduces an adaptive hibernate policy that prevents hibernation when the battery is above 80 percent while initiating hibernation when it drops below 10 percent. This update aims to enhance battery preservation and increase instances of instant-on resumes from Modern Standby.
File Explorer Performance Boost
Build 26300.8935 enhances File Explorer with three key improvements: faster deletion of large and fragmented files, a quicker Home page, and touch scrolling support in the “Recommended” section. Furthermore, starting with build 26220.8925, the “Details” view now displays file sizes in appropriate units such as KB, MB, and GB.
Windows Update Changes
In build 28120.2630, Microsoft has streamlined the update process, reducing the frequency of system restarts by consolidating driver, .NET, and firmware updates into a single monthly reboot. Users will also benefit from expanded update pause controls, allowing for multiple extensions of update pauses.
Touchpad Gestures
New gesture controls for Precision Touchpads have been introduced in builds 28120.2630 and 28020.2623. These enhancements allow users to adjust scroll and zoom speeds, as well as implement accelerated scrolling for a more efficient navigation experience.
Smart Card Policy
Beginning with build 28120.2546, Microsoft has added support for removing smart card policies in Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365 sessions that utilize Microsoft Entra ID authentication. This update enhances security by enabling automatic disconnection of remote sessions upon the removal of a redirected smart card.
Narrator Changes
Build 28120.2546 also improves the usability of refreshable Braille displays with Narrator, allowing for instant connectivity over USB or Bluetooth. This feature is particularly beneficial during the initial Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE).
Taskbar Positioning
With build 26220.9022, users can now reposition the Taskbar to the top, left, right, or bottom of the screen, enhancing personalization options. This new setting, found under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar, retains functionality across all positions while allowing for a smaller Taskbar size.
Voice Isolation for Voice Access
In build 29634, Windows 11 introduces Voice Isolation for Voice Access, enhancing speech recognition in noisy environments. This feature employs on-device processing to filter background noise, offering three speech recognition models for user flexibility.
Reflecting on the developments from the second half of July, it’s clear that while some features may not be groundbreaking, they signify Microsoft’s commitment to refining the user experience across its platforms. As the company continues to align its Insider channels, the focus remains on delivering enhancements that users will appreciate.
More Resources
For those eager to delve deeper into Windows 11, a wealth of how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips await exploration.
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