Windows Insiders
Canary: [https://aka.ms/canarychannellatest](https://aka.ms/canarychannellatest) Dev: [https://aka.ms/DevLatest](https://aka.ms/DevLatest) Beta (Win11): [https://aka.ms/BetaLatest](https://aka.ms/BetaLatest) Beta (Win10): [https://aka.ms/BetaLatestWindows10](https://aka.ms/BetaLatestWindows10) Release Preview (Win11): [https://aka.ms/ReleasePreviewWindows11](https://aka.ms/ReleasePreviewWindows11) Release Preview (Win10): [https://aka.ms/WIPReleasePreview](https://aka.ms/WIPReleasePreview)
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.1350 (KB5041871)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. Details as follows: This update is delivered in a format that offers a preview of enhancements to servicing technology on Windows 11, version 24H2. To learn more, see [https://aka.ms/CheckpointCumulativeUpdates](https://aka.ms/CheckpointCumulativeUpdates). ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * When installing an MSIX package either locally or via the web (ms-appinstaller://?source=), we are beginning to roll out a change where Microsoft SmartScreen is used to verify the source of the MSIX package and if it’s safe to install. **[Windows Share]** * We are rolling out the ability to easily share content to an Android device from Windows share window. The feature requires you to pair your Android device to your Windows PC using the Link to Windows app on Android and Phone Link on your PC.  ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[Task Manager]** * Fixed the issue causing graphs on the Performance page in Task Manager to not show the correct colors when using dark mode again. ### Fixes for everyone in the Dev Channel ### **[Windows Sandbox]** * We fixed the issue causing Windows Sandbox to fail to launch with error 0x80370106. **[Voice Access]** * Fixed an issue where Voice Access commands weren’t working for [non-English supported languages](https://support.microsoft.com/topic/voice-access-command-list-dac0f091-87ce-454d-8d57-bef38d3d8563). ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT]** Windows Insiders joining the Dev Channel on PCs running Windows 11, version 24H2 Build 26100.xxxx will see “(repair version)” noted next to the latest Dev Channel build from Windows Update. This is nothing to worry about as all it means is that an in-place upgrade will happen to update your PC to the latest build in the Dev Channel. * Adding additional languages or optional features may fail with error 0x800f081f. **[Task Manager]** * Navigating between different pages in Task Manager may crash Task Manager. **[Input]** * We’re working on the fix for an issue causing text suggestions for the hardware keyboard to not work properly (selecting one unexpectedly concatenates).
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4010 (KB5041869)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * The more simplified system tray with shortened date/time change that began rolling out with [Build 22635.3930](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/12/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3930-beta-channel/) is now beginning to roll out again to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel after [temporarily disabling](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/22/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3936-beta-channel/) the experience to address some issues.  * For Insiders in the Beta Channel who have the experience where we show jump lists when you hover your mouse cursor over apps on the taskbar that have jump lists that began rolling out with [Build 22635.4000](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/26/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-4000-beta-channel/), there is a setting to turn this off should you want to via Settings \> Personalization \> Taskbar under “Taskbar behaviors”. ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Taskbar]** * Fixed a recent issue where if you pressed the Shift key when you right clicked on an app icon on the taskbar, it was opening another instance of the app rather than opening the expected menu. As part of this fix, we also fixed an issue where if you pressed the Shift key when right-clicking on an app icon on the taskbar would sometimes crash explorer.exe. **[Task Manager]** * Fixed an issue where the dropdown at the top of the GPU section of Performance wasn’t showing in dark mode when dark mode was enabled. ### Known issues ### **[Taskbar]** * We’re working on the fix for an issue causing explorer.exe to crash for some Insiders when closing apps from the taskbar in the latest builds. **[File Explorer]** Insiders in the Beta Channel [with the updated Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/12/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3930-beta-channel/) on the File Explorer homepage may see the following known issues: * Keyboard focus may be lost on selection of an unselected tab item. **[Input]** * We are working on the fix for an issue causing the emoji panel to close when trying to switch to the kaomoji and symbols sections, or after selecting an emoji. ### Paint Update ### We are rolling out an update for Paint (version 11.2406.36.0 and newer) to Windows Insiders in the Beta and Release Preview Channels that introduces the following improvements: * **Pen back button eraser support:** In the new update, users can now seamlessly switch from their current tool to erase by pressing on the eraser button or flipping to the back of the stylus pen to erase. * **Pen support lasso select in pen side button:** In the latest update, users can click on the side button when they hover the stylus pen over the screen to use the free-form selection tool and select anything on the canvas quickly. **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) [under Apps \> Paint](https://aka.ms/paintfeedback).
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is beginning to roll out the August 2024 update for the Microsoft Store to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels. The update will be available for Windows 11 devices (version 22407.xxxx.x and higher). ### An updated library experience ### In this update, we are introducing changes to the library page. First, we have improved the default filters to show all the products you own, not just products that are installed (you can still toggle this filter if you wish). Next, we’ve added a search bar that will help you find the name or the publisher of products you’re looking for. Combined with the first change, this new experience is powerful: you can easily find any app and game you’ve ever acquired with your Microsoft account.  ### A new page for updates and downloads ### We are also moving the list of updates and downloads from the top section of the library to its own dedicated page. This new page displays your list of active downloads or pending updates, and it shows the list of recent installs or updates. Version notes will also be displayed for a pending update or active download.  To all Microsoft Store developers, we invite you to update the “What’s new” section of your app or game submissions with up-to-date information. Those version notes will appear here for your customers to see. ### Limited time events ### We are experimenting with a new section on the Games page in some regions that will showcase select partners with in-app events. We have partnered with game publishers to highlight real events that will be occurring during the test period.  ### The updated Microsoft Store badge is here! ### We’ve refreshed the design of the Microsoft Store badge with a more refined call-to-action to give users more confidence to acquire your app.  These changes are live on the [badge creator page](https://apps.microsoft.com/badge), as well as on any website that currently uses the Microsoft Store badge. For developers that have already been using these externally, you’ll automatically get the new badge. If you haven’t been using them, now’s a great time to get one for your app and increase reach. To learn more about the new badge, including creating one and best practices, head over to our [Microsoft Learn](https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/apps/publish/microsoft-store-app-badge) page. *[These features are beginning to roll out, so they may not be available to all Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels just yet as we plan to monitor feedback and see how it lands before pushing them out to everyone.]* Please try out these changes and let us know what you think. Our team is always listening for feedback! **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Microsoft Store.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.1340 (KB5040557)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. Details as follows: This update is delivered in a format that offers a preview of enhancements to servicing technology on Windows 11, version 24H2. To learn more, see [https://aka.ms/CheckpointCumulativeUpdates](https://aka.ms/CheckpointCumulativeUpdates). ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[Input]** * We are updating Settings \> Bluetooth & Device \> Mouse to now include the option to turn off enhanced mouse pointer precision for those that would prefer to not use it and have added a new option for changing mouse scrolling direction.  **[Voice Access]** * We are making improvements for the spelling and corrections experience in voice access. You can now use the experience for the entire voice access session. The spelling experience will now enable you to dictate the characters at a faster speed and offer more editing flexibility inside the experience with dictation commands, namely selection, deletion and text navigation commands. **[Energy Saver]** * For laptops on battery, a notification will pop up asking you to plug in your laptop if the battery level reaches 20% while Energy Saver is set to “Always On”. **[Settings]** * We are beginning to roll out a new energy recommendation for turning off HDR to conserve energy on PCs with HDR displays under **Settings \> Power & battery \> Energy recommendations**.  ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[Settings]** * Fixed an issue where the items under “Let desktop apps access your location” section in Settings \> Privacy & Security \> Location might visibly flicker although there were no changes displayed. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT]** Windows Insiders joining the Dev Channel on PCs running Windows 11, version 24H2 Build 26100.xxxx will see “(repair version)” noted next to the latest Dev Channel build from Windows Update. This is nothing to worry about as all it means is that an in-place upgrade will happen to update your PC to the latest build in the Dev Channel. * Adding additional languages or optional features may fail with error 0x800f081f. **[Windows Sandbox]** * Windows Sandbox will fail to launch with error 0x80370106. **[Task Manager]** * Navigating between different pages in Task Manager may crash Task Manager. * We’re working on the fix for an issue causing graphs on the Performance page in Task Manager to not show the correct colors when using dark mode again. **[Input]** * We’re working on the fix for an issue causing text suggestions for the hardware keyboard to not work properly (selecting one unexpectedly concatenates).
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4005 (KB5040555)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * Fixed an issue which was causing sporadic explorer.exe for some Insiders while using your PC in the latest flights. ### Known issues ### **[Taskbar]** * **[NEW]** We’re working on the fix for an issue causing explorer.exe to crash for some Insiders when closing apps from the taskbar in the latest builds. **[File Explorer]** Insiders in the Beta Channel with [the updated Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/12/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3930-beta-channel/) on the File Explorer homepage may see the following known issues: * Keyboard focus may be lost on selection of an unselected tab item. **[Input]** * We are working on the fix for an issue causing the emoji panel to close when trying to switch to the kaomoji and symbols sections, or after selecting an emoji.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.1330 (KB5040543)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[File Explorer]** * We’re rolling out the ability to duplicate a tab by right-clicking on a tab in File Explorer.  **[Narrator]** * We have made several changes to improve the performance of Narrator scan mode. This is expected to make scan mode responses much quicker, especially while using Microsoft Edge, and reading through large documents. To try out scan mode, turn on Narrator first (Win key + Ctrl + Enter), and then turn scan mode ON by pressing Caps Lock + Spacebar during a Narrator session. **[Settings]** * We’re beginning to roll out improvements to Settings \> System \> Power & battery including the ability to set your Power Mode for both when your PC is plugged in when it’s on battery along with a few other UI improvements to the page.  **[For Developers]** * Updated the logic for the “End Task” option in the taskbar so that it no longer shows a Not Responding dialog to give confirmation before ending the task. **[Other]** * Updated System Info (msinfo32) to now follow your text size preference under Settings \> Accessibility \> Text Size. ### Fixes for everyone in the Dev Channel ### **[Settings]** * Fixed an issue where the Windows Update page in Settings was not displaying correctly for Insiders using certain languages (no text showed). If you are impacted by this on Build 26120.1252, updating to this flight should still happen on its own, however you may need to wait a little bit. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT]** Windows Insiders joining the Dev Channel on PCs running Windows 11, version 24H2 Build 26100.xxxx will see “(repair version)” noted next to the latest Dev Channel build from Windows Update. This is nothing to worry about as all it means is that an in-place upgrade will happen to update your PC to the latest build in the Dev Channel. * **[NEW]** The BitLocker Recovery screen issue [documented here](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/release-health/status-windows-11-23h2#3358msgdesc) may also impact Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel. * Adding additional languages or optional features may fail with error 0x800f081f. **[Windows Sandbox]** * Windows Sandbox will fail to launch with error 0x80370106. **[Task Manager]** * Navigating between different pages in Task Manager may crash Task Manager. * **[NEW]** We’re investigating an issue causing graphs on the Performance page in Task Manager to not show the correct colors when using dark mode again. **[Input]** * **[NEW]** We’re working on the fix for an issue causing text suggestions for the hardware keyboard to not work properly (selecting one unexpectedly concatenates).
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4000 (KB5040546)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * We’re beginning to try out showing jump lists when you hover your mouse cursor over apps on the taskbar that have jump lists and are inactive. Should you see this experience, let us know what you think via Feedback Hub. **[Voice Access]** * We are making improvements for the spelling and corrections experience in voice access. You will now be able to use the experience for the entirety of voice access session. The spelling experience will now enable you to dictate the characters at a faster speed and offer more editing flexibility inside the experience with dictation commands, namely selection, deletion and text navigation commands. **[Widgets]** * We are rolling out an update to the Widgets Board to improve security and the APIs for creating widgets and feeds for users in EEA regions. As part of this update, the Microsoft Start Experiences app will power the Microsoft Start widget and feed experiences. Also, as part of this update, some existing widgets will be removed and others will be modified, temporarily affecting their functionality. This update sets the foundation for new widgets and other features in development, set to roll out soon. ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * Fix and underlying issue causing the Notification Center to get stuck and not open sometimes for some Insiders with the latest builds. This is also believed to be the same underlying cause as some Insiders finding that the Add a Device dialog didn’t appear when trying to add Bluetooth devices in Settings. ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to everyone in the Beta Channel ### **[File Explorer]** * Fixed some issues causing Narrator to not work as expected when navigating through the Recent, Favorites, and Shared tab items for Insiders with the recent updates to Home in File Explorer. * Fixed an issue causing the context menu in Home or Gallery to open in the wrong position when using Arabic or Hebrew display languages. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * We’re investigating a couple of issues causing an increase in explorer.exe crashes for some Insiders with the latest builds. **[File Explorer]** Insiders in the Beta Channel [with the updated Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/12/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3930-beta-channel/) on the File Explorer homepage may see the following known issues: * Files shared with you may not appear if there has been no interaction with that file. * Keyboard focus may be lost on selection of an unselected tab item. **[Input]** * We are working on the fix for an issue causing the emoji panel to close when trying to switch to the kaomoji and symbols sections, or after selecting an emoji.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft isbeginning to gradually roll out the ability to see your Android phone in File Explorer to Windows Insiders with Android phones across all Insider Channels. With this new experience, you will be able to wirelessly browse through all your folders and files, including media that is on your Android phone. You can open them, copy them to your PC, copy PC files to your phone, rename files, move them, and delete them.  To use this feature, you’ll need to meet the following requirements: * Your Android phone has at least Android 11 or higher. * You are running the BETA version of Link to Windows app on your Android phone (version 1.24071 and higher). * You are registered for the Windows Insider Program, your PC is running Windows 11, and your PC is opted into any of the 4 Insider Channels. To enable this experience, go to **Settings \> Bluetooth & devices \> Mobile Devices** and choose “Manage devices” and allow your PC to access your Android phone. You’ll then be able to see a toggle to show your phone in File Explorer. If you do not see this toggle, that means the experience hasn’t yet rolled out to you yet.  ### Known issues ### * When you delete phone files on your PC, they are moved to a new Recycle Bin folder on your phone. Currently, these deleted files remain in the Recycle Bin for 5 days, even though the dialog indicates 30 days. An update is being made to ensure automatic deletion after 30 days. * Occasionally, deleted files in the new Recycle Bin folder on your phone may not appear in File Explorer on your PC. This issue will be resolved in a future update. * Sometimes, operations performed on phone files from your PC may not sync back to the phone. As a workaround, you can log out of your Windows account on your PC and log back in. **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Devices and Drivers \> Linked devices.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Builds 26100.1297 (KB5040529)** to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel on Windows 11, version 24H2 (Build 26100). Details as follows: ### Gradual rollout ### These might not be available to all users because they will **roll out gradually**. * **[Lock screen]** ***New!*** Sports, traffic, and finance content will appear along with weather. To turn on this feature, go to Settings \> Personalization \> Lock screen. * **[Start menu]** * * ***New!*** The new account manager is on the Start menu. When you use a Microsoft account to sign in to Windows, you will get a glance at your account benefits. This feature also makes it easy to manage your account settings. * * ***New!*** You can now also pin apps from the Start menu to the taskbar by dragging and dropping items directly to taskbar from the pinned section in the Start menu. * **[File Explorer]** ***New!*** You can now use your mouse to drag files between breadcrumbs in the File Explorer address bar. A breadcrumb shows the path to your current file location in the address bar. For example, there are three breadcrumbs in the path **This PC \> Windows (C:) \> Program Files**. * **[Emoji]** ***New!*** This update adds support for[ Emoji 15.1](https://blog.unicode.org/2023/01/whats-new-in-emoji-151.html). Windows supports Unicode symbol-like shapes for family groupings. But Windows will keep using people for them. Also, you can choose the right or left facing direction for some people emoji. The new emoji are: * * Horizontal and vertical head shake * * Phoenix * * Lime * * Brown mushroom * * Broken chain * **[Windows Share]** * * ***New!*** This update adds a feature that stops you from accidentally closing the Windows share window. Clicking outside of the window will no longer close it. To close it, select the close button at the upper-right corner. * * ***New!*** You can directly share to specific Microsoft Teams channels and group chats in the Windows share window. To do so, you must sign in using a Microsoft Entra ID. * * ***New!*** You can now create quick response (QR) codes for webpage URLs and cloud files from the Windows share window. Select the share button in the Microsoft Edge toolbar and choose “Windows share options.” Then, you can share the URLs and files across your devices. * * ***New!*** You can now send email to yourself from the Windows share window. You will receive the email at the email address that is in your Microsoft account. * * ***New!*** You can now copy files from the Windows Share window. Just click the new **Copy** * **[Windows Backup]** ***New!*** Windows will now back up many of your sound settings (this includes your sound scheme). This only occurs if you turn on **Remember my preferences** and select the checkboxes for **Personalization** and **Other Windows settings**. To find these, go to **Settings \> Accounts \> Windows backup**. Then, you can use the Windows Backup app to restore those settings on a new device. * **[Settings]** * * ***New!*** This update adds a new Game Pass recommendation card on the Settings home page. This home page shows on Home and Pro editions when you sign in to Windows using your Microsoft account. The card appears if you actively play games on your PC. * * ***New!*** This update adds a page to Settings \> Accounts called Linked devices. On it, you can manage your PCs and Xbox consoles. This page only shows on Home and Pro editions when you sign in to Windows using your Microsoft account (MSA). * * ***New!*** This update puts the “Add now” button in Settings \> Account. When you select it, you can add a recovery email address if you have not added one for your Microsoft account yet. The button only shows if you sign in to your Microsoft account. * * ***New!*** This update includes updated visuals for the “Rename your PC” and “Change date and time” dialogs to match the Windows 11 visuals. * **[Task Manager]** * * This update changes the units for DDR speed from MHz to MT/s. * * This update addresses an issue that affects USB devices. Ejecting them using the Safely Remove Hardware option fails. This occurs when Task Manager is open. * * This update affects process handles. Task Manager releases them more quickly when it stops a process. * * This update makes Task Manager more reliable. * * This update affects the sort order of processes in Task Manager. Performance is better when you change the order. * * This update makes Task Manager more accessible by improving: Keyboard focus, Tab key navigation, Text scaling, The readout of item names by screen readers, High contrast heatmaps and more. * * This update makes resizing the Task Manager window easier when you grab the top of its window. ### Normal rollout ### This update includes the following features and improvements that are rolling out as part of this update. bolded in brackets indicate the area of the change being documented. * **[[PC Manager](https://pcmanager.microsoft.com/)]** ***New!*** This update adds PC Manager to devices in China. * **[Widgets]** ***New!*** The Widgets icons on the taskbar are no longer pixelated or fuzzy. This update also gives you a larger set of animated icons. * **[Azure Virtual Desktop]** ***New!*** You can now use OneDrive as a RemoteApp in Azure Virtual Desktop. * **[Virtual Filtering Platform (VFP)]** ***New!*** In Windows nodes, VFP has more support for packet drop collection. This will make it easier to troubleshoot issues. * **[Windows Server vNext]** In the latest build, the cache size display behavior is not what you expect. * **[Group Policy Preferences Item Level Targeting (ILT) and Local Users and Groups]** You cannot choose a group from the target domain for ILT. Also, you cannot choose an account from Local Users and Groups. The forest does not appear. This issue occurs when you deploy multiple forests, and the target domain has a one-way trust with the domain of the admin. This issue affects Enhanced Security Admin Environment (ESAE), Hardened Forests (HF), or Privileged Access Management (PAM) deployments. * **[Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist file (DriverSiPolicy.p7b)]** This update adds to the list of drivers that are at risk for Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks. * **[Share button]** On USB controllers, the button might not work with Game Bar. * **[Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS)]** It fails at times when you set Field Engineering logging to 5. * **[NetAdapterCx module]** Devices that use certain WLAN cards stop responding.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26257** to Insiders in the Canary Channel. Details as follows: Developers, please note that for a short period of time, we will not be releasing an SDK for builds we flight to the Canary Channel. ### Changes and Improvements ### **[File Explorer]** * We’re rolling out the ability to duplicate a tab by right-clicking on a tab in File Explorer.  **[Networking]** * If you use the **netsh wlan show networks** command, you should be able to read SSIDs that are UTF-8 encoded. This means that Wi-Fi SSIDs with Unicode characters (like emojis) should be properly displayed in netsh output. This change is beginning to roll out so not all Insiders in the Canary Channel will see it right away. **[For Developers]** * Updated the logic for the “End Task” option in the taskbar so that it no longer shows a Not Responding dialog to give confirmation before ending the task. **[Other]** * Updated System Info (msinfo32) to now follow your text size preference under Settings \> Accessibility \> Text Size. ### Fixes ### **[General]** * Fixed an underlying issue causing some Insiders to see bugchecks in recent builds citing KERNEL\_SECURITY\_CHECK\_FAILURE. **[File Explorer]** * Did some work to help address an issue where the address bar dropdown might appear unexpectedly while you were using File Explorer. **[Settings]** * Fixed an underlying issue leading to some of the pop-up windows in Settings unexpectedly appearing left aligned, for example, the window for selecting a custom color for Dynamic Lighting. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT NOTE]** We are investigating reports that some Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are stuck on Build 26040 or Build 23620. The investigation is ongoing, however if you are impacted by this and really want to get onto the latest build in the Canary or Dev Channel today – you can download the latest ISO and do a clean install and opt your device back into flighting in the Canary or Dev Channels. **[Windows Sandbox]** * **[NEW]** Windows Sandbox will fail to launch with error 0x80370106. **[Input]** * **[NEW]** We are working on the fix for an issue causing the emoji panel to close when trying to switch to the kaomoji and symbols sections, or after selecting an emoji.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3936 (KB5040535)** to Insiders in the (x) Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * We are trying out updated designs for the “Open with” dialog where the group headers are removed, among a few other changes. **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * We have temporarily disabled the more simplified system tray with shortened date/time change that began rolling out with [Build 22635.3930](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/12/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3930-beta-channel/) to address several issues. We will begin re-enabling this on a future flight. If you saw this change previously, it will likely disappear after updating to this build today. ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Input]** * Fixed an issue causing text suggestions for the hardware keyboard to not work properly in recent builds (selecting one unexpectedly concatenated). * Fixed a few high hitting ctfmon.exe crashes, which could impact the ability to input text. * Fixed an issue which could cause certain mice and keyboards to not work in safe mode. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[NEW]** We’re investigating a couple of issues causing an increase in explorer.exe crashes for some Insiders with the latest builds. * **[NEW]** We’re working on the fix for an issue causing the Notification Center to get stuck and not open sometimes for some Insiders with the latest builds. **[File Explorer]** Insiders in the Beta Channel [with the updated Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/07/12/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3930-beta-channel/) on the File Explorer homepage may see the following known issues: * Files shared with you may not appear if there has been no interaction with that file. * Keyboard focus may be lost on selection of an unselected tab item. * Narrator may not work as expected when navigating through the Recent, Favorites, and Shared tab items. **[Widgets]** Insiders in the Beta Channel who have [the new position for the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/03/29/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3420-beta-channel/) may see the following known issues: * Swipe invocation for Widgets may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * Unpinning Widgets from the taskbar may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * The Widgets board is incorrectly positioned when Copilot is in side-by-side mode. **[Input]** * **[NEW]** We are working on the fix for an issue causing the emoji panel to close when trying to switch to the kaomoji and symbols sections, or after selecting an emoji. ### Microsoft Store Update ### Windows Insiders across all Insider Channels running version 22406.xxxx.x of the Microsoft Store and higher will see the following improvement rolling out: **Store Search suggestions:** When you’re searching for content in the Store Search box, a new flyout at the bottom of the search display suggests content you may be interested in. Check it out by navigating to the Search box!  **Browsing games per category:** From the Gaming page, you can now navigate easily and quickly through different game categories such as strategy, role-playing, shooter, sport, puzzle, and simulation. We are trying this out in the US, UK and CA.  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Microsoft Store.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.1252 (KB5038603)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. This update is delivered in a format that offers a preview of enhancements to servicing technology on Windows 11, version 24H2. To learn more, see [https://aka.ms/CheckpointCumulativeUpdates](https://aka.ms/CheckpointCumulativeUpdates). Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * **We are beginning to enable again [the set of new features we started to enable on 6/28 but paused on 6/30](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/06/28/beginning-to-enable-a-set-of-new-features-to-windows-insiders-in-the-dev-channel-on-build-26120-961/).** We’re starting the enablement of these at a small percentage at first so not all Insiders in the Dev Channel with this toggle turned on will see all these features right away. And some features may show up while others might not just yet. **[Start menu]** * You can now also pin apps from the Start menu to the taskbar by dragging and dropping items directly to taskbar from the pinned section in the Start menu. **[File Explorer]** * Drag-and-drop files with your mouse functionality between breadcrumbs is now available in the File Explorer Address Bar – thanks again Insiders that shared feedback about this! **[Lock screen]** * We’re beginning to roll out **Weather and more** to your lock screen starting with this build in the Dev Channel. Stay informed and efficient with dynamic updates that bring finance, traffic, and sports to your Lock screen, alongside weather. The card design has been improved with acrylic blur, card size, spacing, and font optimizations. To turn on this feature, go to **Settings \> Personalization \> Lock screen**. To learn more, see [Personalize your lock screen](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/personalize-your-lock-screen-81dab9b0-35cf-887c-84a0-6de8ef72bea0?preview=true).  ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[File Explorer]** * Fixed an issue which could make explorer.exe crash when navigating away from Home. **[Input]** * Fixed an issue where if you went through Windows Setup (OOBE), pinyin would be unexpectedly displayed twice in the list of available input methods. **[Other]** * Fixed an underlying issue believed to be the cause of Insiders seeing error 0x80370106 when trying to launch Windows Sandbox after the latest flights. * Fixed an issue which was causing the preferred audio volume (under Settings \> System \> Sound \> Volume Mixer) for Microsoft Edge to not persist across restarting the app. ### Fixes for everyone in the Dev Channel ### **[General]** * Fixed an issue causing some Insiders to see a bugcheck with error KERNEL\_SECURITY\_CHECK\_FAILURE in recent flights. * Fixed an issue believed to be the underlying cause of some Insiders noticing stutters in some animations recently (dropping frames), particularly with Task View. **[Input]** * Fixed an issue causing a cyclical input crash in the previous flight for a small number of Insiders, which impacted various input experiences. * Fixed an issue where the Input Method Editor (IME) candidate list may fail to show or showed in the wrong position. * Fixed an issue causing Insiders to see errors when attempting to use Voice Typing with certain languages such as Chinese. **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * Updated the app icon flashing in the taskbar to be a bit easier to see. **[Settings]** * Fixed an issue where Settings \> System \> Power & Battery unexpectedly had duplicate text when showing a warning about a slow charger. * Fixed an issue causing Insiders to see errors when attempting to use Voice Typing with certain languages such as Chinese. **[Other]** * This update brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators. * Fixed the underlying issue causing some Insiders to see a Pcasvc.dll error dialog pop-up with the message “Missing entry: PcaWallpaperAppDetect” after upgrading from Windows 11, version 22H2/23H2 to a 26xxx build. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT]** Windows Insiders joining the Dev Channel on PCs running Windows 11, version 24H2 Build 26100.xxxx will see “(repair version)” noted next to the latest Dev Channel build from Windows Update. This is nothing to worry about as all it means is that an in-place upgrade will happen to update your PC to the latest build in the Dev Channel. * **[NEW]** There’s an issue in this build where the Windows Update page in Settings is not displaying correctly for Insiders using certain languages (no text shows). If you are impacted by this, the update when the next flight goes out should still happen on its own, however you may need to wait a little bit. * **[NEW]** Adding additional languages or optional features may fail with error 0x800f081f. **[Task Manager]** * Navigating between different pages in Task Manager may crash Task Manager.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3930 (KB5040550)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### New features gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **Shared Content in File Explorer Home** File Explorer will now provide you with quick access to files that have been shared with you. If you are signed into Windows with your Microsoft account, you will be able to view files that have been shared with your account, such as email, Teams chat, etc. If you are a commercial customer who is signed-in with your Microsoft Entra ID account, you will additionally be able to view files that they have shared with others. You can access this feature by launching File Explorer Home and clicking on the ‘Shared’ tab item. You will also be able to view a broader set of file types in their Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections on the homepage. For example, if you’ve recently opened/edited files in Designer, Loop, Power BI, Forms, etc. these files will now be available in your Recent list.  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Files Folders and Online Storage \> File Explorer. ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * We are trying out a more simplified system tray to highlight the date/time in a shortened form and to show the notifications bell icon based on DND status. Without the notification bell icon, you can get to your notifications by clicking the date and time to Notification Center. You can revert to the long form of the date/time and bell icon visuals by toggling the values in the Settings via Settings \> Date and Time under “Show time and day in the system tray” and Settings \> System \> Notifications under “Notifications”. These settings are also accessible through the context menu shown by right clicking the system tray clock/bell icon button.  * We’ve updated the previews that show when you mouse-over/hover over apps on the taskbar. We have also improved the animations for when these previews show on the taskbar based on Insider feedback.  * Updated the taskbar to now support first letter navigation, so when keyboard focus is set to the taskbar (WIN + T), you can press a letter, and it will jump to the open or pinned app whose name starts with that letter. Pressing the letter multiple times will jump to the subsequent app which starts with that letter, if there are multiple apps for that letter. For those using uncombined taskbar, rather than app name, the first letter navigation will use window name. Along with this, pressing Home and End will now move keyboard focus to the first and last (respectively) items in the taskbar. **[Windows Studio Effects]** * [Windows Studio Effects](https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/ai/studio-effects/) delivers AI-based camera and audio enhancements on devices equipped with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Today, you can access Studio Effects in Quick Settings from the system tray of the taskbar. To further streamline your experience, an icon will now appear in the system tray when using any application with a Studio Effects-enabled camera. Simply click on this icon to launch the Studio Effects page in Quick Settings. Additionally, hovering over the icon will display a tooltip indicating which application is utilizing the camera.  **[Windows Share]** * We are updating the UI in the Windows share window for sharing content to an Android device that began rolling out with Build 22635.3785. The option is also move to be under “Nearby Share” in the Windows share window. The feature requires you to pair your Android device to your Windows PC using the Link to Windows app on Android and Phone Link on your PC.  **[Narrator]** * We have made several changes to improve the performance of Narrator scan mode. This is expected to make scan mode responses much quicker, especially while using Microsoft Edge, and reading through large documents. To try out scan mode, turn on Narrator first (Win key + Ctrl + Enter), and then turn scan mode ON by pressing Caps Lock + Spacebar during a Narrator session. **[Other]** * Updated System Info (msinfo32) to now follow your text size preference under Settings \> Accessibility \> Text Size. ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### [Start menu] * Fixed an issue where the All apps list wasn’t being read out by screen readers in recent flights. * Fixed an issue causing some apps to not be sorted correctly in the All apps list when using certain display languages. **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * Fixed an issue where keyboard focus might get lost when using Shift + Tab to move through the taskbar. ### Fixes for everyone in the Beta Channel ### **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * We fixed the issue causing you not to be able to view or interact with the taskbar after you install [KB5039302](https://support.microsoft.com/help/5039302). This issue occurs on devices that run the Windows N edition. This edition is like other editions but lacks most media-related tools. The issue also occurs if you turn off “Media Features” from the Control Panel. ### Known issues ### **[Taskbar & System Tray]** Insiders in the Beta Channel who have the more simplified system tray with shortened date/time may see the following known issues: * **[NEW]** If the “Show notification icon” is greyed out under Settings \> System \> Notifications – just toggle “Notifications” off and back on again and it should no longer be greyed out. **[File Explorer]** Insiders in the Beta Channel with the updated Recent, Favorites, and Shared sections on the File Explorer homepage may see the following known issues: * **[NEW]** Files shared with you may not appear if there has been no interaction with that file. * **[NEW]** Keyboard focus may be lost on selection of an unselected tab item. * **[NEW]** Narrator may not work as expected when navigating through the Recent, Favorites, and Shared tab items. **[Text input]** * We’re working on the fix for an issue causing text suggestions for the hardware keyboard to not work properly with the previous flight (selecting one unexpectedly concatenates). **[Widgets]** Insiders in the Beta Channel who have [the new position for the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/03/29/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3420-beta-channel/) may see the following known issues: * Swipe invocation for Widgets may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * Unpinning Widgets from the taskbar may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * The Widgets board is incorrectly positioned when Copilot is in side-by-side mode.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4713 (KB5040525)** to Insiders in BOTH the Beta Channel and Release Preview Channels for Insiders who are on Windows 10, version 22H2. Details as follows: The Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel will receive the same Windows 10 builds; however, the Beta Channel is where we will try new features out with Insiders that we’re working on that are not yet ready for all Windows 10 customers. [You can read our announcement for opening the Beta Channel for Windows Insiders on Windows 10 here](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/06/04/opening-the-beta-channel-for-windows-insiders-on-windows-10/). ### For Windows Insiders on Windows 10 in the Beta Channel, we’re beginning to roll out the following improvements ### **[Search on the Taskbar]** * We are beginning to roll out a fix where you will see search box on your secondary monitors when the setting for search on the taskbar is set to “Search box”. Insiders in the Beta Channel on Windows 10 who want to be the first to get features gradually rolled out to you can [turn ON the toggle to get the latest updates as they are available](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/get-windows-updates-as-soon-as-they-re-available-for-your-device-4911c7af-2644-41f7-a800-6660f9212448) via **Settings \> Updated & Security \> Windows Update**. Over time, we will increase the rollouts of features to everyone with the toggle turned on. Should you keep this toggle off, new features will gradually be rolled out to your device over time once they are ready. ### This update includes the following features and improvements for Windows Insiders in BOTH the Beta and Release Preview Channels ### Items bolded in brackets indicate the area of the change being documented: * **[FrameShutdownDelay]** The browser ignores its value in the “HKLM\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Internet Explorer\\Main” registry key. * **[Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3)]** In the Group Policy editor, HTML preview rendering fails. * **[Group Policy Preferences Item Level Targeting (ILT) and Local Users and Groups]** You cannot choose a group from the target domain for ILT. Also, you cannot choose an account from Local Users and Groups. The forest does not appear. This issue occurs when you deploy multiple forests, and the target domain has a one-way trust with the domain of the admin. This issue affects Enhanced Security Admin Environment (ESAE), Hardened Forests (HF), or Privileged Access Management (PAM) deployments. * **[Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)]** The TCP send code often causes a system to stop responding during routine tasks, such as file transfers. This issue leads to an extended send loop. * **[Print Support App]** When you use the app with a USB device, the app stops responding and does not print. This issue also limits the functions of the user interface. * **[Universal Print clients]** They fail to communicate with the Universal Print service. This affects printing functions. This issue occurs when you turn on Web Proxy Auto Discovery (WPAD). * **[Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC)]** * * This update prevents a stop error that occurs when you apply more than 32 policies. * * A memory leak occurs that might exhaust system memory as time goes by. This issue occurs when you provision a device. * * WDAC fails to verify the policies of some apps. * **[Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist file (DriverSiPolicy.p7b)]** This update adds to the list of drivers that are at risk for Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks. * **[Windows Backup]** Backup sometimes fails. This occurs when a device has an Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) system partition (ESP). * **[DHCP Option 235 (known issue)]** Some Windows devices use this option to find Microsoft Connected Cache (MCC) nodes in their network. But you might not be able to use these nodes when you find them. Instead, these devices download updates and apps from the public internet. Because of this, download traffic increases.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Builds 22621.3951 and 22631.3951 (KB5040527)** to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel for Windows 11. Details as follows: This update includes the following features and improvements (note that items with an asterisk (\*) are gradually rolling out) and items bolded in brackets indicate the area of the change being documented: * **[Notification for Windows Share in China]** \* ***New!*** For nearby sharing to work, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be on. If they are off when you turn on nearby sharing, Windows will ask you to allow them to be turned on. This feature might not be available to all users because it will roll out gradually. * **[File Explorer]** \* ***New!*** When you right-click a tab, you have the choice to duplicate it. This feature might not be available to all users because it will roll out gradually. * **[Start menu]** \* ***New!*** You can drag apps from the Pinned section of the menu and pin them to the taskbar. This feature might not be available to all users because it will roll out gradually. * **[File Explorer]** \* Improves File Explorer reliability, by addressing multiple crashes and hangs. Also, addressed multiple other issues listed as follows. Fixes for these issues might not be available to all users because they will roll out gradually: * * File Explorer leaks memory leak when interacting with archive folders. * * The spacing between your desktop icons unexpectedly may become extremely wide. * * Starting a search from Home in File Explorer may unexpectedly show no results the first time you attempt a search. * * The address bar dropdown appears unexpectedly sometimes while you are using File Explorer, for example when renaming a file. * * After a DWM crash, when you open File Explorer it may just show a blank area on top instead of rending the area correctly. * * File Explorer doesn’t react when using the back and forward buttons on a mouse while hovering over the Recommended Files section of Home. * * The search box doesn’t show the correct folder name when you are in Gallery. * * Pictures in File Explorer Gallery might flash or flicker when scrolling. * * When using the save dialog, if you try to save a file to Gallery in File Explorer shows an error. * **[End Task]** \* Updated the logic for the “End Task” option in the taskbar so that it no longer shows a Not Responding dialog to give confirmation before ending the task. This option is available for users who have enabled End Task under Settings \> System \> For Developers. * **[FrameShutdownDelay]** The browser ignores its value in the “HKLM\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Internet Explorer\\Main” registry key. * **[Group Policy Preferences Item Level Targeting (ILT) and Local Users and Groups]** You cannot choose a group from the target domain for ILT. Also, you cannot choose an account from Local Users and Groups. The forest does not appear. This issue occurs when you deploy multiple forests, and the target domain has a one-way trust with the domain of the admin. This issue affects Enhanced Security Admin Environment (ESAE), Hardened Forests (HF), or Privileged Access Management (PAM) deployments. * **[Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCPIP)]** The issue causes high CPU usage and loss of packets. It also affects TCP connection success rates. * **[NetAdapterCx module]** A system stops responding when large amounts of data travel over Wi-Fi. This issue occurs on devices that have certain wireless network cards. * **[Universal Print clients]** They fail to communicate with the Universal Print service. This affects printing functions. This issue occurs when you turn on Web Proxy Auto Discovery (WPAD). * **[Print Support App]** When you use the app with a USB device, the app stops responding and does not print. This issue also limits the functions of the user interface. * **[Autopilot]** Using it to provision Surface Laptop SE devices fails. * [Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC)] * * A memory leak occurs that might exhaust system memory as time goes by. This issue occurs when you provision a device. * * WDAC fails to verify the policies of some apps. * **[Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist file (DriverSiPolicy.p7b)]** This update adds to the list of drivers that are at risk for Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks. * **[Bluetooth]** You cannot put calls on hold from Bluetooth peripherals. * **[Windows Backup]** Backup sometimes fails. This occurs when a device has an Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) system partition (ESP). * **[Cache manager]** It might stop responding. This occurs when you use Hyperthreading on Windows Server 2022.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26252** to Insiders in the Canary Channel. Details as follows: **Developers, please note that for a short period of time, we will not be releasing an SDK for builds we flight to the Canary Channel.** ### Changes and Improvements ### **[Lock screen]** * We’re beginning to roll out **Weather and more** to your lock screen starting with this build in the Canary Channel. Stay informed and efficient with dynamic updates that bring finance, traffic, and sports to your Lock screen, alongside weather. The card design has been improved with acrylic blur, card size, spacing, and font optimizations. To turn on this feature, go to **Settings \> Personalization \> Lock screen**. To learn more, see [Personalize your lock screen](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/personalize-your-lock-screen-81dab9b0-35cf-887c-84a0-6de8ef72bea0?preview=true).  **[Start menu]** * You can now also pin apps from the Start menu to the taskbar by dragging and dropping items directly to taskbar from the pinned section in the Start menu. **[Settings]** * Evaluation copy expiry date information is now visible under **Settings \> System \> About**.  * We are beginning to roll out a new energy recommendation for turning off HDR to conserve energy on PCs with HDR displays under **Settings \> Power & battery \> Energy recommendations**.  ### Fixes ### **[Input]** * Fixed an issue causing Insiders to see errors when attempting to use Voice Typing with certain languages such as Chinese. * Fixed an issue where if you went through Windows Setup (OOBE), pinyin would be unexpectedly displayed twice in the list of available input methods. **[Task Manager]** * Fixed an issue causing colors in the Performance section to not display correctly in dark mode. **[Settings]** * Fixed an issue causing the icons in Settings \> Apps \> Startup too be way too large for the available space for some users, causing them to be cut off. * Fixed an issue where Settings \> System \> Power & Battery unexpectedly had duplicate text when showing a warning about a slow charger. * Fixed an issue where the Windows Update page in Settings was not displayed correctly for some Insiders after the previous flight (no text shows). If you are impacted by this, the update to this build with the fix should still happen on its own, however you may need to wait a little bit. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT NOTE]** We are investigating reports that some Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are stuck on Build 26040 or Build 23620. The investigation is ongoing, however if you are impacted by this and really want to get onto the latest build in the Canary or Dev Channel today – you can download the latest ISO and do a clean install and opt your device back into flighting in the Canary or Dev Channels.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is beginning to enable the following new features, changes and improvements, and fixes to the Dev Channel for Insiders on **Build 26120.961**. Details as follows: ### New features gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **Narrator users can now use voice access to dictate text hands-free** Narrator users can start using [voice access in Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/topic/get-started-with-voice-access-bd2aa2dc-46c2-486c-93ae-3d75f7d053a4) to dictate text with voice and hear what is dictated. In addition, you can also use voice access to give Narrator commands. For example, “Turn on Narrator,” “speak faster,” “read selection,” “read next line,” etc. To know the entire list of Narrator commands supported with voice access, click help icon (?) on the voice access bar, select “View all commands” and choose “Narrator commands.” What will work: * Start and set up voice access which includes downloading a speech model. * Read a list of voice access commands and Narrator commands from voice access help menu. * Changing voice access microphone state. * Dictating text with voice and hearing back what was dictated. Tips: * If you don’t use headphones for listening to the screen reader, the audio output from the screen reader may get picked up by voice access microphone, leading to unwanted behavior. **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility \> Narrator. **Auto Restart for Voice Access & New Voice Access Command for Windows Search** We are introducing auto restart for [voice access in Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/topic/get-started-with-voice-access-bd2aa2dc-46c2-486c-93ae-3d75f7d053a4). This feature ensures that voice access will automatically restart if it encounters any issues so that individuals with limited mobility can get back to using voice access as quickly as possible. Customers will no longer need to rely on alternative assistive technologies or assistance from others to reactivate voice access. Should voice access automatically restart due to a crash, we are making it easier to report those crashes once voice access restarts so the team can investigate and work on fixes. We are introducing a new command for searching directly with Windows search. Users can now say the command Search “Entity”; Search Windows for “Entity”; or Search for “Entity” to search for their desired application or file in Windows (“Entity” is replaced with whatever application or file you want to search.) **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility \> Voice access. ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[Start menu]** * This update starts the roll out of the new account manager on Start menu. When you sign in with a Microsoft account, the new design gives you a quick glanceable view of your account benefits and makes it easy to manage account settings.  **[Windows Share]** * We are beginning to roll out the ability to copy files from the Windows share window. Just click the new copy button.  * Users will be able to now generate QR codes for URLs and cloud file links through the Windows share window to seamlessly share webpages and files across their devices. To try this out in Microsoft Edge, just click the share button in the Edge toolbar and choose “Windows share options”.  * To prevent accidentally closing the Windows share window, clicking outside the Windows share window will no longer close it. To close the Windows share window, just press the close button at the top right corner. * If your Microsoft account uses a Gmail address, you can now send email to yourself from Windows share window and receive it in your Gmail account.  **[Emoji]** * We’re adding support for Emoji 15.1 which introduces a small number of brand-new emoji such as head shaking horizontally and vertically, phoenix, lime, brown mushroom and broken chain. Other changes for Emoji 15.1 include Unicode’s decision to revert family combinations to symbol-like shapes. Windows has chosen to stay with our existing style that uses people in family combinations. We are also supporting the new directionality updates for person/man/woman walking, kneeling, with cane, running, manual wheelchair and motorized wheelchair. You can now select right facing or the original left facing orientation for these emoji.    **[Windows Backup]** * If you have both Personalization and Other Windows settings toggled on under **Settings \> Accounts \> Windows backup**, many of your sound settings (including chosen sound scheme) will be backed up which can be restored via the Windows Backup app. **[Settings]** * To ensure you don’t lose access to your Microsoft account, we’re beginning to roll out a new banner with a “Add now” button under Settings \> Account for adding a recovery email address if you haven’t added one for your Microsoft account yet. This will only show if you are signed in with a Microsoft account. * We are beginning to roll out updated visuals for the “Rename your PC” and “Change date and time” dialogs to match the Windows 11 visuals.  ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[Task Manager]** * Updated the units (from MHz to MT/s) for DDR speed. * Fixed an issue where the Safely Remove Hardware option for ejecting USB devices wouldn’t work if Task Manager was open. * Did some work to ensure Task Manager releases process handles quickly when terminating processes. * Made some more improvements to help with Task Manager reliability. * We have improved the performance when changing the sort order. * Made multiple improvements to overall accessibility of Task Manager, including improving keyboard focus, tab navigation, text scaling, names of items read out by screen readers, and more. * We made it a little easier to resize Task Manager when trying to resize by grabbing the top of the window. **[Graphics]** * Fixed an issue where some monitors would get stuck at a 60Hz refresh rate and couldn’t be set higher even though the monitor supported it, because dynamic refresh rate was stuck. **[Multiple desktops]** * Fixed an issue where the option to set a different wallpaper on each desktop wasn’t working. **[Other]** * Fixed an underlying issue which could lead to some apps not starting on startup even though they were enabled as startup apps in Setting. * Fixed an underlying issue which could lead to the pop up asking for permission to use location not appearing, which could lead to app issues without location access. * Fixed an issue causing some Insiders to see a bugcheck with error DRIVER\_IRQL\_NOT\_LESS\_OR\_EQUAL in recent flights.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26244** to Insiders in the Canary Channel. Details as follows: **Developers, please note that for a short period of time, we will not be releasing an SDK for builds we flight to the Canary Channel.** ### Changes and Improvements ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. **[Windows Backup]** * If you have both Personalization and Other Windows settings toggled on under **Settings \> Accounts \> Windows backup**, many of your sound settings (including chosen sound scheme) will be backed up which can be restored via the Windows Backup app. **[Settings]** * To ensure you don’t lose access to your Microsoft account, we’re beginning to roll out a new banner with a “Add now” button under Settings \> Account for adding a recovery email address if you haven’t added one for your Microsoft account yet. This will only show if you are signed in with a Microsoft account. * We are introducing a new Game Pass recommendation card on the Settings homepage. The Game Pass recommendation card on Settings Homepage will be shown to you if you actively play games on your PC. As a reminder – the Settings homepage will be shown only on the Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 and if you’re signed into Windows with your Microsoft account.  * We’re beginning to roll out a change that redirects links for the Fonts Control Panel page to the Fonts settings page at Settings \> Personalization \> Fonts. Insiders who see this change can still access the Fonts Control Panel UI by navigating to the system fonts folder in File Explorer and a link to the system fonts folder is also provided on the Font settings page. ### Fixes ### **[Other]** * Fixed the underlying issue causing some Insiders to see a Pcasvc.dll error dialog pop-up with the message “Missing entry: PcaWallpaperAppDetect” after upgrading from Windows 11, version 22H2/23H2 to a 26xxx build. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT NOTE]** We are investigating reports that some Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are stuck on Build 26040 or Build 23620. The investigation is ongoing, however if you are impacted by this and really want to get onto the latest build in the Canary or Dev Channel today – you can download the latest ISO and do a clean install and opt your device back into flighting in the Canary or Dev Channels. **[Windows Update]** * **[NEW]** We’re investigating reports that the Windows Update page in Settings is not displaying correctly for Insiders using certain languages after the previous flight (no text shows). If you are impacted by this, the update should still happen on its own, however you may need to wait a little bit. **[Task Manager]** * We’re working on the fix for an issue where the colors in the Performance section aren’t displaying correctly in dark mode. **[Voice Typing]** * **[NEW]** We’re working on the fix for an issue causing Insiders to see errors when attempting to use Voice Typing with certain languages such as Chinese.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3858 (KB5039327)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[File Explorer]** * The preview thumbnail title in the taskbar, ALT + Tab and Task View for File Explorer windows will now indicate if that window includes multiple tabs. **[Windows Share]** * We’re rolling out some minor UI changes to simplify the Windows share window which removes the search box. **[For Developers]** * Updated the logic for the “End Task” option in the taskbar so that it no longer shows a Not Responding dialog to give confirmation before ending the task. **[Other]** * Updated the Run dialog to now follow text scaling (Settings \> Accessibility \> Text size). ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[File Explorer]** * Addressed several accessibility issues where File Explorer, Common File Dialog (CFD), and Browse/Shortcuts Dialogs did not respond appropriately to your text size / scaling preferences. Including, but not limited to, fixed an issue where file name was getting clipped in the CFD and the Browse/ Shortcuts dialog. * Addressed several accessibility issues in File Explorer impacting screen reader users, related to content being read out correctly, and also keyboard focus not going to the correct place. Some examples include, keyboard focus getting lost sometimes when using Shift + Tab, and Narrator stuttering during the search process * Fixed an issue causing some people to see a thin line between the tab and address bar in File Explorer. * Fixed an issue impacting File Explorer reliability for a small number of people. * Fixed an issue where the OneDrive icon in the address bar was blurry sometimes for some people. ### Fixes for everyone in the Beta Channel ### **[Voice Typing]** * Fixed an issue believed to be the underlying cause of some Insiders seeing errors when attempting to use Voice Typing in certain languages such as Chinese with recent flights. **[Taskbar]** * Updated the app icon flashing in the taskbar to be a bit easier to see. **[Other]** * You can now use OneDrive as a RemoteApp in Azure Virtual Desktop. * This update improves the Virtual Filtering Platform (VFP) within Windows nodes. Now, VFP has more support for packet drop collection. This will make it easier to troubleshoot issues. * Fixed an issue where Group Policy would fail to detect when[ a network’s speed is slow](https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/ask-the-directory-services-team/group-policy-slow-link-detection-using-windows-vista-and-later/ba-p/397210). Instead, it assumed that a fast link was present. * Fixed an issue causing a deadlock which could stop you from signing in to Azure Virtual Desktop sessions. * Fixed an issue occurring when using Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) and Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA). When you used them with SMBdirect in your networks, the networks would fail, and you would lose the ability to manage clusters. * Fixed and issue where a firewall profile might drop from domain to public. This would occur when multiple interfaces existed, and you added or removed an interface. * Fixed an issue where GPUs did not enter the idle state that stops them from consuming power. * Fixed an issue where when using Snipping Tool to record videos on some PCs, the audio would have distortions. * This update adds the registry key **HKLM\\Software\\Microsoft\\Windows\\DWM ForceDisableModeChangeAnimation (REG\_DWORD)**. When you set its value to 1 (or a non-zero number), it turns off the display mode change animation. If the value is 0 or the key does not exist, the animation is set to on. * This update brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators. * Fixed an issue occurring in the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) driver. This issue could lead to high system CPU usage. It also reduced throughput under a heavy load. This update boosts network packet processing in WFP. This helps to stop performance from degrading. This update also adds batch processing to reduce CPU load. * Fixed an issue where the Input Method Editor (IME) candidate list might fail to show or showed in the wrong position. ### Known issues ### **[Start menu]** * We are investigating an issue where the All apps list isn’t being read out by screen readers. * We’re working on the fix for an issue causing some apps to not be sorted correctly in the All apps list when using certain display languages. **[Text input]** * **[NEW]** We’re working on the fix for an issue causing text suggestions for the hardware keyboard to not work properly with the previous flight (selecting one unexpectedly concatenates). **[Widgets]** Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel who have the new position for the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars may see the following known issues: * Swipe invocation for Widgets may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * Unpinning Widgets from the taskbar may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * The Widgets board is incorrectly positioned when Copilot is in side-by-side mode.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3790 (KB5039307)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Phone Link]** * We are gradually rolling out a new feature, which allows you to use your mobile device directly from the Start menu on your Windows 11 PCs, to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel. With this feature, you can stay connected and effortlessly access your mobile device’s functionalities right from the Start menu. [See this blog post for more details](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/06/21/previewing-for-accessing-phone-link-features-from-the-start-menu-with-windows-insiders/).  **[Copilot in Windows]** * The evolved Copilot experience on Windows where it is pinned to the taskbar and behaves like an app is now rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel on Windows 11. [We updated last week’s Beta Channel flight blog post with more details](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/06/14/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3785-beta-channel/). ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[File Explorer]** * Addressed contrast issues of certain elements in File Explorer (left navigation pane, view pane/folder view, status bar buttons on the bottom right) in light, dark, and high contrast themes. E.g., adjustments to make it easier to see when a file or folder is selected. ### Fixes for everyone in the Beta Channel ### **[General]** * We fixed the issue where Settings was crashing when trying to look at wi-fi properties. **[Settings]** * Fixed an issue where when attempting to install an optional feature via Settings \> System \> Option features, it might crash Settings in the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview build in the Beta Channel. ### Known issues ### **[Start menu]** * **[NEW]** We are investigating an issue where the All apps list isn’t being read out by screen readers. * **[NEW]** We’re working on the fix for an issue causing some apps to not be sorted correctly in the All apps list when using certain display languages. **[Voice Typing]** * **[NEW]** We’re working on the fix for an issue causing some Insiders to see errors when attempting to use Voice Typing. **[Widgets]** Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel who have [the new position for the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/03/29/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3420-beta-channel/) may see the following known issues: * Swipe invocation for Widgets may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * Unpinning Widgets from the taskbar may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * The Widgets board is incorrectly positioned when Copilot is in side-by-side mode.
blogs.windows.com
We are gradually rolling out a new feature, which allows you to use your mobile device directly from the Start menu on your Windows 11 PCs, to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel. With this feature, you can stay connected and effortlessly access your mobile device’s functionalities right from the Start menu. Key features include: * **Effortless Connectivity:** View your phone’s battery status and connectivity right from the Start menu on your Windows 11 PC. * **Unified Communication:** Access your phone messages, calls, and photos directly from Start, ensuring you never miss an important update or moment. * **Continuity of Experience:** Pick up where you left off with the latest activities from your phone, all seamlessly integrated into your Start menu experience.  This feature is gradually rolling out to the Windows Insider community and available only for Android users on Windows 11 who are already connected via Phone Link. iOS support will be coming at a later date. This experience can be managed via **Settings \> Personalization \> Start** (support [link](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/phone-link-requirements-and-setup-cd2a1ee7-75a7-66a6-9d4e-bf22e735f9e3)). **Requirements:** * Windows 11 Insider Preview [Build 22635.3790](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/06/21/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3790-beta-channel/) and higher in the Beta Channel. (Other Insider Channels coming at a later date.) * Phone Link **version 1.24052.124.0** and higher. **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Desktop Environment \> Start Menu. Give it a try and let us know your feedback and suggestions. You can also join the conversation on our Windows Insider community forums and social media channels.
blogs.windows.com
As part of our ongoing effort to improve your experience with the Microsoft Photos app on Windows 11, we have some exciting updates to share. We listened to your feedback and made some changes to the Viewer and Media Import features that we think you will love. We’re beginning to roll this update out to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels. Here are some of the highlights of what’s new and improved. ### Viewer & Import Enhancements ### In this update, the Photos Viewer has been upgraded with a variety of new enhancements that will make your photo viewing more enjoyable and convenient. * **Easy Access to Key Photos Actions:** Important actions such as “Start slideshow” and “Share” are now right on the main viewing screen instead of hidden inside the overflow menu. * **Dedicated section for Microsoft apps:** We have grouped all the Microsoft apps shortcuts together so you can quickly and easily navigate to the full photo gallery from the viewer, open in Clipchamp or open in OneDrive.  **Dynamic Zoom Slider:** Rather than being limited to only pre-set image sizes, we’ve introduced a slider that lets you view your images anywhere from 10% to 800% of their original size. Effortlessly achieve your desired image size with our easy-to-use draggable slider, enabling precise adjustments for a better photo viewing experience. **Photo Metadata Information:** The size and dimensions of your photos are now visibly displayed at the screen’s lower edge, fulfilling a feature many users have asked for.  **Device Import Options:** We’ve introduced a new feature that lets you choose and manage when to begin transferring photos and videos from local devices at your convenience.  **Viewer Performance:** This release also comes with our new multi-process performance lifts that improve viewer load time by 2.1 times. To get the latest Photos experience, update your app to **version 2024.11060.20004.0 or higher**. This update is currently rolling out, so it may not be available right away. We appreciate your comments and suggestions, so please share your feedback with us! **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Apps \> Photos.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Build 26100.994 (KB5039304)** to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel. Details as follows: This update includes the following features and improvements: * This update addresses an issue that affects Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC). It fails to verify the policies of some apps. * This update addresses an issue that affects WDAC. It reports a certain class of its policies as not active or not authorized. * This update addresses an issue that might cause **DWM.exe** to stop responding. * This update brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators. * This update addresses an issue that affects Unified Write Filter (UWF). Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) API calls to shut down or restart a system throws an access denied exception. * This update addresses an issue believed to be the underlying cause of some Insiders noticing stutters in some animations recently (dropping frames), particularly with Task View.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26241** to Insiders in the Canary Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. **[File Explorer]** * Drag-and-drop files with your mouse functionality between breadcrumbs is now available in the File Explorer Address Bar – thanks again Insiders that shared feedback about this! ### Fixes ### **[Taskbar]** * Updated the app icon flashing in the taskbar to be a bit easier to see. **[File Explorer]** * As some Insiders have noticed, we’ve updated File Explorer so it’s a little easier to see when you have files or folders selected, by adding a thin border to the selected area. * Fixed an underlying issue causing File Explorer to crash when going to Home for some Insiders in the last few flights. **[Notifications]** * We’ve updated the underlying logic for when we suggest turning off notifications for certain apps, so that it requires a longer period of time without engaging with notifications from that app in order to trigger. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT NOTE]** We are investigating reports that some Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are stuck on Build 26040 or Build 23620. The investigation is ongoing, however if you are impacted by this and really want to get onto the latest build in the Canary or Dev Channel today – you can download the latest ISO and do a clean install and opt your device back into flighting in the Canary or Dev Channels. **[Task Manager]** * We’re investigating an issue where the colors in the Performance section aren’t displaying correctly in dark mode.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.961 (KB5038575)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. ### Microsoft Store Update ### Windows Insiders in the Canary, Dev, and Beta Channels running version 22405.xxxx.x of the Microsoft Store and higher will see the following improvement rolling out: **Fast, safe checkout with Microsoft Wallet:** Make quick and easy purchases in Store using Microsoft Wallet. Not only can you earn Microsoft Rewards points in the Store, but you can also easily redeem your points for a gift card during checkout to apply towards your purchase. Wallet is fast, safe, and easy to use!  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Microsoft Store.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3785 (KB5039319)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Start menu]** * When right-clicking on apps pinned to the Start menu, jump lists will be shown for apps that have them such as PowerPoint.  **[Desktop Spotlight]** * We are trying out some new adjustments to the Windows Spotlight experience on the desktop to make it easier for Spotlight users to engage with this feature to change images, like or not like an image etc. There will be several changes that Insiders will notice highlighted in the images below.   **[Windows Share]** * We are rolling out the ability to easily share content to an Android device from Windows share window. The feature requires you to pair your Android device to your Windows PC using the Link to Windows app on Android and Phone Link on your PC.  ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Taskbar & System Tray]** * Fixed an issue causing the taskbar to not appear for a small number of Insiders in the last couple flights. **[File Explorer]** * Fixed an issue causing screen readers to not announce when you were opening or navigating items in the breadcrumb flyouts of the open or save dialog. * Fixed an issue causing screen readers to not announce anything when opening or navigating items in the column header flyout in File Explorer. **[Start menu]** * Fixed the issue from the last flight where if you clicked your profile icon on the Start menu and chose “Change account settings”, it would not open account settings ### Fixes for everyone in the Beta Channel ### **[Other]** * This update addresses an issue that might stop your system from resuming from hibernate. This occurs after you turn on BitLocker. * This update addresses an issue that affects **exe**. It leaks memory. This occurs during a Local Security Authority (Domain Policy) Remote Protocol (LSARPC) call. * This update addresses an issue that affects **exe**. It stops responding. This occurs after you install the April 2024 security updates on Windows servers. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * We are investigating an issue where Internet Information Services (IIS) and Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) may not work after installing this update. * We’re investigating an issue where Settings is crashing when trying to look at Wi-Fi properties. **[Start menu]** * The “Most used” section at the top of the Start menu All apps list is showing even though the setting for it under Settings \> Personalization \> Start and “Show most used apps” is toggled off. **[Settings]** * Attempting to install an optional feature via Settings \> System \> Option features may crash Settings. Should you need to install an optional feature, please do so before taking the update to Build 22635.3720. **[Widgets]** Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel who have[ the new position for the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/03/29/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3420-beta-channel/) may see the following known issues: * Swipe invocation for Widgets may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * Unpinning Widgets from the taskbar may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * The Widgets board is incorrectly positioned when Copilot is in side-by-side mode. ### Snipping Tool Update ### We are rolling out an update for Snipping Tool (version 11.2405.31.0 and newer) to Windows Insiders in the Beta and Release Preview Channels that introduces **automatic save for screen recordings**. This feature works the same as automatic save for screenshots. Your recordings will automatically be saved to Screen Recordings folder (inside your Videos folder). You can choose to turn this off in Snipping Tool settings.  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) [under Apps \> Snipping Tool](https://aka.ms/snippingtoolfeedback). ### Microsoft Store Update ### Windows Insiders in the Canary, Dev, and Beta Channels running version 22405.xxxx.x of the Microsoft Store and higher will see the following improvement rolling out: **Fast, safe checkout with Microsoft Wallet:** Make quick and easy purchases in Store using Microsoft Wallet. Not only can you earn Microsoft Rewards points in the Store, but you can also easily redeem your points for a gift card during checkout to apply towards your purchase. Wallet is fast, safe, and easy to use!  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Microsoft Store.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4593 (KB5039299)** to Insiders in **BOTH** the Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel for Insiders who are on Windows 10, version 22H2. Details as follows: Going forward, the Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel will receive the same Windows 10 builds; however, the Beta Channel is where we will try new features out with Insiders that we’re working on that are not yet ready for all Windows 10 customers. [You can read our announcement for opening the Beta Channel for Windows Insiders on Windows 10 here](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/06/04/opening-the-beta-channel-for-windows-insiders-on-windows-10/). Today we are trying out this process. ### For Windows Insiders on Windows 10 in the Beta Channel, we’re beginning to roll out the following improvements: ### **[Search on the Taskbar]** * We’re made some fixes to improve the overall stability of searching for apps in the search box on the taskbar. **[Windows Backup]** * You will be able to seamlessly backup and restore personalization preferences of Activity History and Printer Device Settings that are not hardware or accessory dependent such as “Let Windows manager my default printer” and “Store my activity history on this device”. The goal is to ensure that the most used preferences of these settings are backed up, while avoiding those that are tied to specific hardware, to facilitate a seamless transition to a new PC. * We are making some important bug fixes to enhance the backup and restore functionality. As part of this work, the issue causing backup failures when desktop and lock screen backgrounds were backed up twice has been resolved. Insiders in the Beta Channel on Windows 10 who want to be the first to get features gradually rolled out to you can [turn ON the toggle to get the latest updates as they are available](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/get-windows-updates-as-soon-as-they-re-available-for-your-device-4911c7af-2644-41f7-a800-6660f9212448) via **Settings \> Updated & Security \> Windows Update**. Over time, we will increase the rollouts of features to everyone with the toggle turned on. Should you keep this toggle off, new features will gradually be rolled out to your device over time once they are ready. ### This update includes the following features and improvements for Windows Insiders in BOTH the Beta and Release Preview Channels: ### * This update addresses an issue that affects MSIX applications. When you install them from an HTTPS URI, they fail to open. This issue occurs when the download of the application is not complete. This damages the package. * This update affects mobile device management (MDM). When you enroll a device, the MDM client sends more details about the device. The MDM service uses those details to identify the device model and the company that made it. * This update addresses an issue that affects the default Japanese Input Method Editor (IME). The candidate window stops responding when you do not expect it. Then, it goes back to a former composition state at random. * This update addresses an issue that affects Direct Composition batched presentations. A brief flash of triangles or boxes show on the screen. This issue affects browsers, like Microsoft Edge, and other apps. * This update brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators. * This update addresses an issue that might stop your system from resuming from hibernate. This occurs after you turn on BitLocker. * This update addresses an issue that affects Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC). The issue copies unsigned WDAC policies to the Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) disk partition. It is reserved for signed policies. * This update addresses an issue that affects an app’s jump list on the taskbar. Completing actions from that list might fail. A jump list is a menu that appears when you right-click an app on the taskbar or Start menu. It gives you quick access to recently or frequently used app items. * This update addresses an issue that affects a folder context menu. When you choose the command that removes items, the command adds items instead. This occurs when a third-party service implements a sync feature.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Builds 22621.3807 and 22631.3807 (KB5039302)** to Insiders in the Release Preview Channel. Details as follows: This update includes the following features and improvement (note that items with an asterisk (\*) are gradually rolling out): * (\*) **New!** We are advancing the Copilot experience on Windows. It is now pinned to the taskbar and will behave like an app. This gives you the benefits of a typical app experience. For example, you can do things like resize, move, and snap the window. * (\*) **New!** This update adds a new Game Pass recommendation card on the Settings home page. This home page shows on Home and Pro editions when you sign in to Windows using your Microsoft account. The card appears if you actively play games on your PC. * (\*) **New!** The **show desktop** button is on the taskbar again by default. To change this, right-click the taskbar and choose **Taskbar settings**. At the lower part of the page, you will find **Taskbar behaviors**. * (\*) **New!** This update affects File Explorer. You can now create 7-Zip and Tape Archive (TAR) files using the context menu. When you right-click a file, a **Compress to** item gives you ways to compress a file using tools like gzip, bzip2, and more. There is also a new compression wizard in **Additional options**. It will help you choose more formats and add details. You can use different types of compression to add many files to archives in other TAR formats. You can also change the compression level and choose the types of data to store in each archive. * (\*) **New!** This update adds support for [Emoji 15.1](https://blog.unicode.org/2023/01/whats-new-in-emoji-151.html). Windows supports Unicode symbol-like shapes for family groupings. But Windows will keep using people for them. Also, you can choose the right or left facing direction for some people emoji. The new emoji are: * * Horizontal and vertical head shake * * Phoenix * * Lime * * Brown mushroom * * Broken chain 48617543 * (\*) **New!** You can now copy files from the Windows Share window. Just click the new **Copy** * (\*) **New!** This update affects OneDrive. You can now use it as a RemoteApp in Azure Virtual Desktop. * (\*) This update changes the units for DDR speed from MHz to MT/s. * (\*) This update addresses an issue that affects USB devices. Ejecting them using the Safely Remove Hardware option fails. This occurs when Task Manager is open. * (\*) This update affects process handles. Task Manager releases them more quickly when it stops a process. * (\*) This update makes Task Manager more reliable. * (\*) This update affects the sort order of processes in Task Manager. Performance is better when you change the order. * (\*) This update makes Task Manager more accessible by improving: * * Keyboard focus * * Tab key navigation * * Text scaling * * The readout of item names by screen readers * * High contrast heatmaps and more. * (\*) This update makes resizing the Task Manager window easier when you grab the top of its window. * This update addresses an issue that affects Group Policy. It fails to detect when a network’s speed is slow. Instead, it assumes that a fast link is present. * This update addresses an issue that affects Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) and Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA). When you use them with SMBdirect in your networks, the networks fail. You also lose the ability to manage clusters. * This update addresses an issue that affects GPUs. They do not enter the idle state that stops them from consuming power. * This update adds the registry key **HKLM\\Software\\Microsoft\\Windows\\DWM ForceDisableModeChangeAnimation (REG\_DWORD)**. When you set its value to 1 (or a non-zero number), it turns off the display mode change animation. If the value is 0 or the key does not exist, the animation is set to on. * This update brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators. * This update addresses an issue that affects Snipping Tool. When you use it to record videos on some PCs, the audio has distortions. * This update addresses an issue that affects Azure Virtual Desktop sessions. A deadlock stops you from signing in to them. * This update addresses an issue that affects the touch keyboard. You cannot use it to enter special characters. This occurs when you use the Japanese 106 keyboard.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26236** to Insiders in the Canary Channel. Details as follows: **Developers, please note that for a short period of time, we will not be releasing an SDK for builds we flight to the Canary Channel.** ### Changes and Improvements ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. **[Start menu]** * This update starts the roll out of the new account manager on Start menu. When you sign in with a Microsoft account, the new design gives you a quick glanceable view of your account benefits and makes it easy to manage account settings.  ### Fixes ### **[Taskbar]** * Fixed an issue causing the taskbar to not appear for a small number of Insiders in the last couple flights. **[Audio]** * Fixed an underlying issue which was causing the preferred audio volume (under Settings \> System \> Sound \> Volume Mixer) for Microsoft Edge to not persist across restarting the app. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT NOTE]** We are investigating reports that some Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are stuck on Build 26040 or Build 23620. The investigation is ongoing, however if you are impacted by this and really want to get onto the latest build in the Canary or Dev Channel today – you can download the latest ISO and do a clean install and opt your device back into flighting in the Canary or Dev Channels. **[Task Manager]** * **[New]** We’re investigating an issue where the colors in the Performance section aren’t displaying correctly in dark mode. ### Microsoft Store Update ### Windows Insiders in the Canary, Dev, and Beta Channels running version 22405.xxxx.x of the Microsoft Store and higher will see the following improvement rolling out: **Fast, safe checkout with Microsoft Wallet:** Make quick and easy purchases in Store using Microsoft Wallet. Not only can you earn Microsoft Rewards points in the Store, but you can also easily redeem your points for a gift card during checkout to apply towards your purchase. Wallet is fast, safe, and easy to use!  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Microsoft Store.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3720 (KB5039312)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### New features gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **Narrator users can now use voice access to dictate text hands-free** Narrator users can start using [voice access in Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/topic/get-started-with-voice-access-bd2aa2dc-46c2-486c-93ae-3d75f7d053a4) to dictate text with voice and hear what is dictated. In addition, you can also use voice access to give Narrator commands. For example, “Turn on Narrator,” “speak faster,” “read selection,” “read next line,” etc. To know the entire list of Narrator commands supported with voice access, click help icon (?) on the voice access bar, select “View all commands” and choose “Narrator commands.” What will work: * Start and set up voice access which includes downloading a speech model. * Read a list of voice access commands and Narrator commands from voice access help menu. * Changing voice access microphone state. * Dictating text with voice and hearing back what was dictated. Tips: * If you don’t use headphones for listening to the screen reader, the audio output from the screen reader may get picked up by voice access microphone, leading to unwanted behavior. **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility \> Narrator. **Auto Restart for Voice Access & New Voice Access Command for Windows Search** We are introducing auto restart for [voice access in Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/topic/get-started-with-voice-access-bd2aa2dc-46c2-486c-93ae-3d75f7d053a4). This feature ensures that voice access will automatically restart if it encounters any issues so that individuals with limited mobility can get back to using voice access as quickly as possible. Customers will no longer need to rely on alternative assistive technologies or assistance from others to reactivate voice access. Should voice access automatically restart due to a crash, we are making it easier to report those crashes once voice access restarts so the team can investigate and work on fixes. We are introducing a new command for searching directly with Windows search. Users can now say the command Search “Entity”; Search Windows for “Entity”; or Search for “Entity” to search for their desired application or file in Windows (“Entity” is replaced with whatever application or file you want to search.) **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility \> Voice access. ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[Search on the Taskbar]** We are beginning to roll out the ability to share local files directly from within the search results shown in the search box on the taskbar.  **[Windows Share]** * If you are in China and turn on nearby sharing, you will receive a notification asking to allow turning on Wi-Fi and or Bluetooth should these settings be off as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are required to be enabled for nearby sharing to work. ### Fixes gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[File Explorer]** * Fixed an issue where when pressing WIN + E, a screen reader might unexpectedly say a pane had focus, or focus may not be set within File Explorer at all. * Fixed an issue which was causing CTRL + F to sometimes not start a search in File Explorer. * Fixed an issue where keyboard focus might get lost sometimes when doing Shift + Tab in File Explorer. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * We are investigating an issue where Internet Information Services (IIS) and Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) may not work after installing this update. * We’re investigating an issue where Settings is crashing when trying to look at Wi-Fi properties. **[Start menu]** * **[NEW]** Clicking your profile icon on the Start menu and choosing “Change account settings” will not open account settings. Should you need to adjust your account settings, you can navigate directly to them via Settings \> Accounts. **[Settings]** * **[NEW]** Attempting to install an optional feature via Settings \> System \> Option features may crash Settings. Should you need to install an optional feature, please do so before taking the update to Build 22635.3720. **[Widgets]** Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel who have [the new position for the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/03/29/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3420-beta-channel/) may see the following known issues: * Swipe invocation for Widgets may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * Unpinning Widgets from the taskbar may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * The Widgets board is incorrectly positioned when Copilot is in side-by-side mode. ### Introducing Suggested Replies in Phone Link for Android ### We’re excited to announce the addition of a new feature to the Phone Link app for Android users: **Suggested Replies**. Powered by our cloud-based intelligent suggestion model, this feature is designed to make your messaging experience seamless and more efficient.  With Suggested Replies, you’ll see 3 contextually relevant reply bubbles to choose from when you receive a message. The feature is turned on by default, so you can start using it right away. Simply select a suggested reply and it’ll be sent immediately. Suggested Replies are beginning to roll out to Windows Insiders across all channels with **Phone Link version 1.24051.98 and higher**. **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Apps \> Phone Link.
blogs.windows.com
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.770 (KB5039314)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. ### Snipping Tool Update ### We are rolling out an update for Snipping Tool (version 11.2405.24.0 and newer) to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels that introduces **automatic save for screen recordings**. This feature works the same as automatic save for screenshots. Your recordings will automatically be saved to Screen Recordings folder (inside your Videos folder). You can choose to turn this off in Snipping Tool settings.  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) [under Apps \> Snipping Tool](https://aka.ms/snippingtoolfeedback).
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26231** to Insiders in the Canary Channel. Details as follows: **Developers, please note that for a short period of time, we will not be releasing an SDK for builds we flight to the Canary Channel.** ### What’s new with Build 26231 ### **Narrator users can now use voice access to dictate text hands-free** Narrator users can start using [voice access in Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/topic/get-started-with-voice-access-bd2aa2dc-46c2-486c-93ae-3d75f7d053a4) to dictate text with voice and hear what is dictated. In addition, you can also use voice access to give Narrator commands. For example, “Turn on Narrator,” “speak faster,” “read selection,” “read next line,” etc. To know the entire list of Narrator commands supported with voice access, click help icon (?) on the voice access bar, select “View all commands” and choose “Narrator commands.” What will work: * Start and set up voice access which includes downloading a speech model. * Read a list of voice access commands and Narrator commands from voice access help menu. * Changing voice access microphone state. * Dictating text with voice and hearing back what was dictated. Tips: * If you don’t use headphones for listening to the screen reader, the audio output from the screen reader may get picked up by voice access microphone, leading to unwanted behavior. *[We are beginning to roll this out to Windows Insiders in the Canary Channel, so the experience isn’t available to all Insiders just yet as we plan to monitor feedback before pushing it out to everyone.]* **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility \> Narrator. **Auto Restart for Voice Access & New Voice Access Command for Windows Search** We are introducing auto restart for [voice access in Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/topic/get-started-with-voice-access-bd2aa2dc-46c2-486c-93ae-3d75f7d053a4). This feature ensures that voice access will automatically restart if it encounters any issues so that individuals with limited mobility can get back to using voice access as quickly as possible. Customers will no longer need to rely on alternative assistive technologies or assistance from others to reactivate voice access. Should voice access automatically restart due to a crash, we are making it easier to report those crashes once voice access restarts so the team can investigate and work on fixes. We are introducing a new command for searching directly with Windows search. Users can now say the command Search “Entity”; Search Windows for “Entity”; or Search for “Entity” to search for their desired application or file in Windows (“Entity” is replaced with whatever application or file you want to search.) *[We are beginning to roll this out to Windows Insiders in the Canary Channel, so the experience isn’t available to all Insiders just yet as we plan to monitor feedback before pushing it out to everyone.]* **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility \> Voice access. ### Changes and Improvements ### **[Windows Share]** * We are beginning to roll out the ability to copy files from the Windows share window. Just click the new copy button.  **[Settings]** * The change that updates the visuals for the “Rename your PC” and “Change date and time” dialogs to match the Windows 11 visuals that began rolling out with Build 26217 should now be available to everyone in the Canary Channel.  ### Fixes ### **[File Explorer]** * As some Insiders have noticed, we’ve done some work to improve how the [new icon labels in the context menu](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/02/14/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-26058-canary-and-dev-channels/) display for non-English languages. **[Task Manager]** * Updated the units (from MHz to MT/s) for DDR speed. * Fixed an issue where the Safely Remove Hardware option for ejecting USB devices wouldn’t work if Task Manager was open. * Did some work to ensure Task Manager releases process handles quickly when terminating processes. * Made some more improvements to help with Task Manager reliability. * We have improved the performance when changing the sort order. * Made multiple improvements to overall accessibility of Task Manager, including improving keyboard focus, tab navigation, text scaling, names of items read out by screen readers, and more. * We made it a little easier to resize Task Manager when trying to resize by grabbing the top of the window. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT NOTE]** We are investigating reports that some Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are stuck on Build 26040 or Build 23620. The investigation is ongoing, however if you are impacted by this and really want to get onto the latest build in the Canary or Dev Channel today – you can download the latest ISO and do a clean install and opt your device back into flighting in the Canary or Dev Channels. ### Snipping Tool Update ### We are rolling out an update for Snipping Tool (version 11.2405.24.0 and newer) to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels that introduces **automatic save for screen recordings**. This feature works the same as automatic save for screenshots. Your recordings will automatically be saved to Screen Recordings folder (inside your Videos folder). You can choose to turn this off in Snipping Tool settings.  **FEEDBACK:** Please file feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) [under Apps \> Snipping Tool](https://aka.ms/snippingtoolfeedback).
Hello Windows Insiders, At the end of last year, we [announced a change in approach for Windows 10](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/how-we-are-maximizing-value-in-windows-10-7dca25fa-be2f-492d-b99c-bf3342be7037) to make sure everyone can get the maximum value from their current Windows PC. To bring new features and more improvements to Windows 10 as needed, we need a place to do active feature development with Windows Insiders. **So today, we are opening the Beta Channel for Windows Insiders who are currently on Windows 10**. This will allow us to try out new features for Windows 10, version 22H2, with Insiders before releasing them to all Windows 10 customers. **If you are an Insider on Windows 10 today and want to try out new features for Windows 10 when we have them, we recommend that you join or switch to the Beta Channel.** You can do this by going to **Settings \> Update & Security \> Windows Insider Program**, clicking on the current Insider Channel selection to expand and see the full list of Insider Channels, and choosing Beta Channel.  **For Insiders on a Windows 10 PC that meet the [minimum system requirements for Windows 11](https://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-11-specifications):** * We will **not** automatically upgrade you to Windows 11 when you join the Beta Channel. The Windows 11 upgrade will be available as optional, where you can choose to upgrade when you are ready. * You will be able to switch to the Canary or Dev Channels but in doing so it will upgrade your PC to the latest Windows 11 build for those channels. * If you switch to the Canary or Dev Channels, you will have a small window to roll back to Windows 10 but once this window closes, the only way to go back to the Beta Channel and/or Windows 10 will be to do a clean install of Windows. **For Insiders on a Windows 10 PC that DO NOT meet the [minimum system requirements for Windows 11](https://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-11-specifications):** * You will not see the options to switch to the Canary or Dev Channels as these channels are only for Windows 11 Insider Preview builds. * The Windows 10 end of support date of October 14, 2025, is unchanged. Joining the Beta Channel on your Windows 10 PC does not change that. For more information on the Extended Security Update program for Windows 10, [see this blog post here](https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/windows-it-pro-blog/plan-for-windows-10-eos-with-windows-11-windows-365-and-esu/ba-p/4000414). Many features in the Beta Channel will be rolled out using [Control Feature Rollout technology](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/delivering-continuous-innovation-in-windows-11-b0aa0a27-ea9a-4365-9224-cb155e517f12), starting with a subset of Insiders and ramping up over time as we monitor feedback to see how they land before pushing them out to everyone in this channel. Insiders in the Beta Channel on Windows 10 who want to be the first to get features gradually rolled out to them can turn ON the toggle to get the latest updates as they are available via Settings \> Windows Update. Features and experiences included in the Windows 10 builds we flight to the Beta Channel might not ever get released as we try out different concepts and get feedback. Features may change over time, be removed, or replaced and never get released beyond Windows Insiders. Some of these features and experiences could show up in updates to Windows 10 for everyone **when they’re ready**. Insiders in the Beta Channel who want to be the first to get features gradually rolled out to you can [turn ON the toggle to get the latest updates as they are available](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/get-windows-updates-as-soon-as-they-re-available-for-your-device-4911c7af-2644-41f7-a800-6660f9212448) via **Settings \> Updated & Security \> Windows Update**. Over time, we will increase the rollouts of features to everyone with the toggle turned on. Should you keep this toggle off, new features will gradually be rolled out to your device over time once they are ready. Please note that once you opt your Windows 10 PC into the Beta Channel today, you will not receive a new build just yet. We’ll have a new build for you in the coming weeks. For more information on the 4 Insider Preview Channels,[ click here](https://www.microsoft.com/windowsinsider/preview-windows).
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.751 (KB5037874)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to everyone in the Dev Channel ### **[Copilot in Windows]** * As part of this update, we’re also evolving the Copilot experience on Windows as an app that will be pinned to the taskbar. This enables users to get the benefits of a traditional app experience, including the ability to resize, move, and snap the window – feedback we’ve heard from users throughout the preview of Copilot in Windows. This model also allows Microsoft to more agilely develop and optimize the experience based on user feedback. * As part of the Copilot experience’s evolution on Windows to become an app that is pinned to the taskbar, we are retiring the WIN + C keyboard shortcut. For new devices that ship with [a Copilot key](https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2024/01/04/introducing-a-new-copilot-key-to-kick-off-the-year-of-ai-powered-windows-pcs/), this key will open Copilot. For existing devices without that key, using the WIN + (number position for Copilot pinned to your taskbar) is a great way to open Copilot. **[Settings]** * We are beginning to roll out a new Linked devices page under Settings \> Accounts that allows you to manage PCs and Xbox consoles that you are signed in to with your Microsoft account. This settings page will only show on the Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 and if you’re signed into Windows with your Microsoft account.  ### Fixes for everyone in the Dev Channel ### **[Widgets]** * Fixed the issue causing the WIN + W keyboard shortcut to not work correctly and open the Widgets board. **[Other]** * This update brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators. * This update addresses an issue that affects the installation of a Windows update. It fails to complete. This occurs when you have to restart your device more than once. * This update addresses an issue that affects a device that uses an enablement KB (EKB). It might stop you from installing a new Windows update. ### Introducing Suggested Replies in Phone Link for Android ### We’re excited to announce the addition of a new feature to the Phone Link app for Android users: **Suggested Replies**. Powered by our cloud-based intelligent suggestion model, this feature is designed to make your messaging experience seamless and more efficient.  With Suggested Replies, you’ll see 3 contextually relevant reply bubbles to choose from when you receive a message. The feature is turned on by default, so you can start using it right away. Simply select a suggested reply and it’ll be sent immediately. Suggested Replies are beginning to roll out to Windows Insiders across all channels with **Phone Link version 1.24051.98 and higher**. **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Apps \> Phone Link.
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26227** to Insiders in the Canary Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements ### **[Copilot in Windows]** * As part of this update, we’re also evolving the Copilot experience on Windows as an app that will be pinned to the taskbar. This enables users to get the benefits of a traditional app experience, including the ability to resize, move, and snap the window – feedback we’ve heard from users throughout the preview of Copilot in Windows. This model also allows Microsoft to more agilely develop and optimize the experience based on user feedback. * As part of the Copilot experience’s evolution on Windows to become an app that is pinned to the taskbar, we are retiring the WIN + C keyboard shortcut. For new devices that ship with [a Copilot key](https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2024/01/04/introducing-a-new-copilot-key-to-kick-off-the-year-of-ai-powered-windows-pcs/), this key will open Copilot. For existing devices without that key, using the WIN + (number position for Copilot pinned to your taskbar) is a great way to open Copilot. **[Emoji]** * We’re adding support for [Emoji 15.1](https://blog.unicode.org/2023/01/whats-new-in-emoji-151.html) which introduces a small number of brand-new emoji such as head shaking horizontally and vertically, phoenix, lime, brown mushroom and broken chain. Other changes for Emoji 15.1 include Unicode’s decision to revert family combinations to symbol-like shapes. Windows has chosen to stay with our existing style that use people in family combinations. We are also supporting the new directionality updates for person/man/woman walking, kneeling, with cane, running, manual wheelchair and motorized wheelchair. You can now select right facing or the original left facing orientation for these emoji.    **[Settings]** * We are introducing a new Linked devices page under Settings \> Accounts that allows you to manage PCs and Xbox consoles that you are signed in to with your Microsoft account. This settings page will only show on the Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 and if you’re signed into Windows with your Microsoft account.  ### Fixes for known issues ### **[General]** * Fixed an issue believed to be the underlying cause of some Insiders noticing stutters in some animations recently (dropping frames), particularly with Task View. * Fixed an underlying issue which could lead to some apps not starting on startup even though they were enabled as startup apps in Settings. It would show as Suspended in Task Manager, but not appear in the taskbar. * Fixed an underlying issue which could lead to the pop up asking for permission to use location not appearing, which could lead to app issues without location access. **[Windowing]** * Fixed an issue related to showing tabs in Alt + Tab, which could lead to frequent explorer.exe crashes if you had a very large number of tabs. **[Widgets]** * Fixed the issue causing the WIN + W keyboard shortcut to not work correctly and open the Widgets board. **[Other]** * Fixed explorer.exe crashes impacting live captions and voice access. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * **[IMPORTANT NOTE]** We are investigating reports that some Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are stuck on Build 26040 or Build 23620. The investigation is ongoing, however if you are impacted by this and really want to get onto the latest build in the Canary or Dev Channel today – you can download the latest ISO and do a clean install and opt your device back into flighting in the Canary or Dev Channels. ### Introducing Suggested Replies in Phone Link for Android ### We’re excited to announce the addition of a new feature to the Phone Link app for Android users: **Suggested Replies**. Powered by our cloud-based intelligent suggestion model, this feature is designed to make your messaging experience seamless and more efficient.  With Suggested Replies, you’ll see 3 contextually relevant reply bubbles to choose from when you receive a message. The feature is turned on by default, so you can start using it right away. Simply select a suggested reply and it’ll be sent immediately. Suggested Replies are beginning to roll out to Windows Insiders across all channels with **Phone Link version 1.24051.98 and higher**. **FEEDBACK:** Send us feedback in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Apps \> Phone Link.
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.3646 (KB5037858)** to Insiders in the Beta Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Beta Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. ### Fixes for everyone in the Beta Channel ### **[Other]** * ***New!*** This update adds [PC Manager](https://pcmanager.microsoft.com/) to devices in China. * This update addresses an issue that affects File Explorer. It takes up to two minutes to start when you pin a folder that is on a network share to Quick Access. This occurs when you upgrade from Windows 11, version 21H2 to Windows 11, version 22H2. * This update addresses an issue that affects TWAIN drivers. They might stop responding when you use them in a virtual environment. * This update addresses an issue that affects File Explorer. It stops responding when you swipe from a screen edge. This issue occurs after you turn off edge swiping. * This update addresses an issue that affects the display of a smart card icon. It does not appear when you sign in. This occurs when there are multiple certificates on the smart card. * This update addresses an issue that affects a folder context menu. When you choose the command that removes items, the command adds items instead. This occurs when a third-party service implements a sync feature. * This update addresses an issue that affects a server after you remove it from a domain. The **Get-LocalGroupMember** cmdlet returns an exception. This occurs if the local groups contain domain members. * This update affects the Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) **AmsiUtil** It helps to detect the bypass of the AMSI scan. This update also addresses some long-term issues that expose your device to threats. * This update addresses an issue that affects printers. They do not work as you expect when you use AppContainer or use them in a restricted environment. * This update addresses an issue that affects the out-of-box experience (OOBE). It fails to complete. This occurs when you turn on the “Prevent the use of security questions for local accounts” policy. * This update addresses an issue that affects the Host Networking Service (HNS). When the service restarts, load balancer policies are not brought back in the right way. * This update addresses an issue that affects Enhanced Fast Reconnect. It fails. This occurs when you use it with third-party remote desktop protocol (RDP) providers. * This update addresses an issue that affects Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio They do not show the option to connect or disconnect. * This update addresses an issue that affects an IPP-over-USB printer. After you delete it, it still appears as not available in Control Panel. * This update addresses an issue that affects Unified Write Filter (UWF) Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) API calls. Calls to shut down or restart the system throw an access denied exception. * This update addresses an issue that distorts parts of the screen. This occurs when you use a Chromium-based browser to play a video. * This update brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators. * This update addresses an issue that affects the Share button on USB controllers. It might not work with Game Bar. * This update addresses an issue that displays a hidden window. Its title bar has no content and no client area. This occurs when you share your screen using certain apps. * This update addresses an issue that affects handwriting panels and touch keyboards. They do not appear when you use a pen. * This update addresses an issue that affects an app that supports encrypted email. The app asks you to enter your credentials each time you open an encrypted email. This occurs even after you have entered your PIN at least once. ### Known issues ### **[General]** * We are investigating an issue where Internet Information Services (IIS) and Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) may not work after installing this update. * **[NEW]** We’re investigating an issue where Settings is crashing when trying to look at wi-fi properties. **[Widgets]** Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel who have [the new position for the Widgets entry-point on left-aligned taskbars](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/03/29/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22635-3420-beta-channel/) may see the following known issues: * Swipe invocation for Widgets may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * Unpinning Widgets from the taskbar may not work if taskbar is center-aligned instead of left-aligned. * The Widgets board is incorrectly positioned when Copilot is in side-by-side mode. * Turning on/off Widgets in taskbar settings may refresh the taskbar.
Today Microsoft is releasing this year’s annual feature update **Windows 11, version 24H2** (Build 26100.712) available in the Release Preview Channel for customers to preview ahead of general availability later this calendar year. Details as follows: Windows 11, version 24H2\* includes a range of new features such as the HDR background support, energy saver, [Sudo for Windows](https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/sudo/), Rust in the Windows kernel, support for Wi-Fi 7, voice clarity and more. It also includes many improvements across Windows. For example, we are introducing a scrollable view of the quick settings flyout from the taskbar, the ability to create 7-zip and TAR archives in File Explorer (in addition to ZIP), and improvements for connecting Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio devices. We will be sharing more details in the coming months on many of the new features and improvements included as part of Windows 11, version 24H2 leading up to general availability. Please note that the new AI features such as Recall announced earlier this week will not be available on your PC after installing this update today as they require a Copilot+ PC. For more information on those new AI features and Copilot+ PCs, [see this blog post here](https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2024/05/20/introducing-copilot-pcs/). As part of this update, we’re also evolving the Copilot\*\* experience on Windows as an app that will be pinned to the taskbar. This enables users to get the benefits of a traditional app experience, including the ability to resize, move, and snap the window – feedback we’ve heard from users throughout the preview of Copilot in Windows. This model also allows Microsoft to more agilely develop and optimize the experience based on user feedback. This change will be making is way to Insiders in the Canary, Dev, and Beta Channels shortly.  Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel can install Windows 11, version 24H2 via our “seeker” experience in Windows Update. This means if you are an Insider currently in the Release Preview Channel on a PC that meets the Windows 11 [hardware requirements](https://docs.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/windows-11-requirements), you can go to Settings and Windows Update and choose to download and install Windows 11, version 24H2 if you want. Once you update your PC to Windows 11, version 24H2, you will continue to automatically receive new servicing updates through Windows Update (the typical monthly update process). For instructions on how to join the Windows Insider Program and join your PC to the Release Preview Channel, [click here](https://insider.windows.com/en-us/getting-started). Commercial\*\*\* customers enrolled in the [Windows Insider Program for Business](https://insider.windows.com/for-business/) can begin validating Windows 11, version 24H2 on PCs in their organizations. For these customers, the Windows 11, version 24H2 feature update is available through Windows Update for Business (WUfB) and Windows Server Update Service (WSUS). [Azure Marketplace](https://azuremarketplace.microsoft.com/marketplace/apps/microsoftwindowsdesktop.windows11preview?tab=overview) will be coming soon. You can learn more about deploying pre-release feature updates using [these deployment methods here](https://docs.microsoft.com/windows/deployment/update/waas-manage-updates-wufb). Should any issues arise, IT admins in organizations deploying Release Preview updates can request [Microsoft Support](https://support.serviceshub.microsoft.com/supportforbusiness/create?sapId=39fc4a93-68cd-5a19-f91b-f0b349a098f3). And finally – ISOs will be available later today for Windows 11, version 24H2 via the Windows Insider ISO download page. *\*Please note that Cortana, Tips, and WordPad are removed after upgrading to Windows 11, version 24H2. [These apps are deprecated](https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/deprecated-features).* *\*\*Copilot in Windows is being rolled out gradually to Windows Insiders across our global markets. Customers in the European Economic Area will be able to download the Copilot in Windows experience as an app from the Microsoft Store (coming soon).* *\*\*\*We consider a device a commercial device if it is not running the Windows 11 Home edition AND is being managed by an IT administrator (whether via Microsoft Endpoint Manager or other management solution) or has a volume license key or commercial ID or is joined to a domain.*
Today Microsoft is releasing **Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.670 (KB5037869)** to Insiders in the Dev Channel. Details as follows: ### Changes and Improvements gradually being rolled out to the Dev Channel with toggle on ### **[General]** * This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs. ### Fixes for everyone in the Dev Channel ### **[Other]** * Fixed an issue where the Network Locations header was missing in the This PC section of File Explorer. * This update affects next secure record 3 (NSEC3) validation in a recursive resolver. Its limit is now 1,000 computations. One computation is equal to the validation of one label with one iteration. DNS Server Administrators can change the default number of computations. To do this, use the registry setting below. ○ Name: \**\\HKEY\_LOCAL\_MACHINE\\SYSTEM\\CurrentControlSet\\Services\\DNS\\Parameters\** ○ MaxComputationForNsec3Validation ○ Type: DWORD ○ Default: 1000 ○ Max: 9600 ○ Min: 1 * This update addresses an issue that might affect domain controllers (DC). NTLM authentication traffic might increase. * This update addresses an issue that affects the installation of a Windows update. It fails to complete. This occurs when you have to restart your device more than once. * This update addresses an issue that might affect Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) scenarios. They might fail. These scenarios include VPN, Windows Hello, Credential Guard, and Key Guard. ### Known issues ### **[Widgets]** * The WIN + W keyboard shortcut may not work correctly to open the Widgets board.