Microsoft has unveiled the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535 (KB5072046), now available to users in both the Dev and Beta Channels. This release marks a significant step forward, as both channels are aligned with the Windows 11 version 25H2, while a limited opportunity remains for Dev Channel users to transition to the Beta Channel.
Enhancements in Accessibility and Copilot Management
The update emphasizes accessibility enhancements, streamlined Copilot management for administrators, and a series of bug fixes alongside subtle user interface adjustments. As is customary with Insider builds, several features will be rolled out gradually, necessitating that users enable the “get the latest updates as they are available” toggle for full access.
Narrator Gains Copilot-Powered Image Descriptions
One of the standout features in this build is the integration of Copilot with Narrator across all Windows 11 devices. This collaboration allows users to generate comprehensive descriptions of images and visual elements. Users can easily request descriptions for a specific image or the entire screen, with Copilot providing context-aware insights and enabling follow-up inquiries.
For those utilizing Copilot+ PCs, on-device AI descriptions function seamlessly without the need to transmit data to the cloud. This Copilot-assisted functionality extends to non-Copilot+ systems, ensuring a broader reach. Importantly, image sharing is only initiated when users explicitly request a description, although this feature is currently unavailable within the European Economic Area.
Admins Can Uninstall Copilot on Managed Devices
With Build 26220.7535, Microsoft introduces a new Group Policy option titled Remove Microsoft Copilot App. This feature empowers administrators to uninstall the Copilot app from specific users or devices under certain conditions, such as when the app has not been user-installed or has not been recently launched. This policy is applicable to Enterprise, Pro, and Education editions, while users retain the ability to manually reinstall Copilot post-removal.
Additional Changes and Fixes
The update also brings a minor refresh to the Windows Spotlight desktop icon, along with a variety of bug fixes. These address several issues, including:
- Problems within the Start menu
- File Explorer crashes related to context menus
- Inconsistencies in the printing dialog
- Pen input flashes in the Snipping Tool
- Hangs during Windows Update
However, some known issues persist, such as interaction difficulties in the Start menu for certain Insiders, inconsistencies in the system tray, taskbar auto-hide behavior, and crashes in Settings when managing audio devices.
Microsoft has advised that features included in this build are subject to controlled rollouts and may undergo changes or removal prior to a general release.