Key Points
- Microsoft released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4151 to the Beta Channel, automatically upgrading Insiders from version 23H2 to 24H2.
- The update introduces AI actions in File Explorer, enabling users to interact with files using AI-powered tools like image editing and document summarization.
- Advanced Settings have been revamped, offering new features such as Git integration in File Explorer and Virtual Workspaces for easier access to developer tools.
Microsoft has announced the release of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4151 (KB5058486) to the Beta Channel. This update marks a significant milestone, as all Insiders in the Beta Channel will now be automatically upgraded from Windows 11, version 23H2 to version 24H2. This transition ensures that participants in the Beta Channel receive the latest updates and features for testing.
New Features and Improvements
The latest build introduces AI actions in File Explorer, a notable enhancement that allows users to engage more deeply with their files. By right-clicking on a file, users can access AI-powered tools, such as:
- Bing Visual Search: Search the web using images to find similar content, products, or information.
- Blur Background, Erase Objects, and Remove Background: Editing tools that utilize AI to refine images directly within File Explorer, supporting .jpg, .jpeg, and .png files.
Additionally, Microsoft is rolling out AI actions for Microsoft 365 files, including:
- Summarize: Generate summaries of documents stored on OneDrive and SharePoint without opening them individually (requires a Microsoft 365 subscription with Copilot).
- Create an FAQ: Automatically produce Q&A lists from selected files, streamlining knowledge base creation and meeting preparation (initially limited to commercial Microsoft 365 subscribers with Copilot).
Advanced Settings Redesign
The update also features a redesigned Advanced Settings page (Settings > System > Advanced), which replaces the previous "For Developers" page. This revamped section introduces:
- Enable long paths: Removes the MAX_PATH limitation for file and directory functions.
- Virtual workspaces: Simplifies the enablement of virtual environments like Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox.
- File Explorer + version control: Seamlessly integrates Git information within File Explorer, displaying repository details such as branch names, commit messages, and diff counts.
Additional Updates and Fixes
- Taskbar & System Tray: Added text descriptions for assistive technologies in the Accessibility flyout to enhance usability.
- Search on the Taskbar: Introduced notifications for incomplete search results due to indexing, along with clear indicators for file and folder availability (online or local).
- Voice access: Temporarily disabled Chinese support to address issues, with plans for reinstatement in future updates.
- Widgets: A new visual experience for the widgets board, incorporating Copilot-curated stories from trusted publishers, though some features like pinning are still in development.
- Power & Battery: Introduced User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management to conserve power during inactivity, automatically restoring full performance upon user interaction.
- Windows Share: Simplified the image compression scale selection (High, Medium, Low) in the Windows share window.
- Windows Backup: Experimenting with variations of the landing page for the Windows Backup app.
- Snipping Tool: Enhanced the text extractor feature, accessible via the shortcut Win + Shift + T, for quicker text copying without screenshots.
Known Issues and Reminders
Microsoft has acknowledged several known issues, including:
- PC reset displaying incorrect build versions after the update, which will be resolved in future releases.
- Xbox Controller connectivity issues via Bluetooth, with a provided workaround involving Device Manager adjustments.
- Narrator and Voice Access limitations in specific scenarios, such as scanning mode functionality and descriptive language support.
The company reminds Windows Insiders that features in the Beta Channel are subject to change, removal, or replacement based on feedback. Some updates may not be fully localized, and accessibility features might not work seamlessly with all preview functions. Insiders are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub and to monitor Flight Hub for the latest build information across Insider channels.
This update reinforces Microsoft’s commitment to refining the Windows 11 experience through collaborative testing with the Insider community, emphasizing AI integration, developer tool accessibility, and overall system refinement. As the development process continues, users can expect further enhancements and adjustments in preparation for the public release of Windows 11, version 24H2.
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