Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (KB5053660) to the Dev and Beta Channels, bringing a host of new features and improvements to the operating system. This update focuses on enhancing user experience, productivity, and accessibility across various aspects of Windows 11.
File Explorer Enhancements
One of the most notable changes in this build is the introduction of the “Recommended” section to the Home page of File Explorer. This new feature aims to streamline file access and improve productivity.
Key improvements:
- A carousel of recommended files with thumbnail previews.
- Quick access to recent files from your computer and cloud storage.
- Display of recent downloads and images added to the Gallery.
This feature is available for personal Microsoft accounts and offers expanded recommendations for work or school accounts. Users in the European Economic Area won’t have access to this feature initially, but Microsoft plans to roll it out in the future.
Note: When the Recommended section is enabled, Quick Access folders won’t be displayed. However, you can disable this feature if you prefer the previous layout.
Start Menu Updates
The Start menu now includes a new “snap group” feature, which suggests pairs of apps you’re likely to use together. This enhancement aims to improve multitasking and workflow efficiency.
Taskbar Improvements
Microsoft has introduced several updates to the taskbar to improve user interaction and accessibility:
- A new Emoji panel button in the System Tray for quick access to emojis, GIFs, and kaomoji.
- Improved support for web search providers in the European Economic Area.
- A new toast notification reminding users to add a secondary email or recovery phone number to their Microsoft account.
Settings App Enhancements
The About page in the Settings app has been redesigned to provide a more informative overview of your system:
- New “Top Cards” display key hardware specifications.
- Quick access to information about your processor, RAM, storage, and graphics card.
This update makes it easier for users to understand their PC’s capabilities and identify potential areas for hardware upgrades.
Accessibility Improvements
Windows 11 continues to prioritize accessibility with the following updates:
- Real-time translation for Live Captions on AMD and Intel Copilot+ PCs.
- Support for over 20 languages, including Chinese (Simplified), Arabic, German, Japanese, and more.
- Improved text scaling support in File Explorer, including Open/Save dialogs and Wizard dialogs.
Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements
This build also addresses several issues to improve overall system stability:
- Fixed a Snap Bar display issue where corners were unexpectedly visible.
- Resolved a ctfmon.exe crash that affected typing.
- Fixed crashes in the Settings app related to color profiles and Microsoft Account sign-ins.
- Addressed a PDC_WATCHDOG_TIMEOUT Blue Screen of Death occurring during sleep resumption.
- Resolved an issue with windows.storage.dll that caused app crashes when opening files.
How to Install Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380
Step 1: Enroll your device in the Dev or Beta Channel through the “Windows Insider Program” settings in the Update & Security section.
Step 2: Once enrolled, navigate to the “Windows Update” settings.
Step 3: Enable the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option.
Step 4: Click the “Check for Updates” button to download and install the new build.
Remember that the Beta Channel offers this update as an optional install, allowing users to upgrade at their convenience. Microsoft plans to make these updates recommended later in the year, which will lead to automatic upgrades for Beta Channel users.
This Windows 11 Insider Preview build showcases Microsoft’s commitment to refining the user experience and introducing new productivity features. As always, Insiders play a crucial role in shaping the future of Windows by providing feedback on these new features and improvements.