Key Points
- Microsoft released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 to the Dev Channel, marking the start of the 2025 annual feature update (25H2) and introducing passwordless login enhancements via 1Password integration.
- The update includes critical fixes for File Explorer, the Start menu, voice input, and known bugs associated with the lock screen and input tools.
- Insiders are advised of temporary known issues, such as potential rollback errors and touch compatibility problems with the redesigned Start menu, along with workarounds.
Microsoft announced the availability of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 (KB5060838) to participants in the Dev Channel today. This update reflects Microsoft’s shift to an annual feature update cadence for Windows 11, with the 25H2 version now designated as this year’s major release. The update introduces new features, improvements, and fixes, primarily targeting users who enable the "get latest updates" toggle in Settings > Windows Update. The company emphasized that these changes will eventually roll out to all Dev Channel users but may progress in phases.
A key addition is enhanced passwordless login capabilities, achieved through a partnership with 1Password. Insiders with the toggle enabled can now integrate 1Password’s passkey storage into Windows Hello for biometric authentication. Users must install the 1Password Beta app, activate the plugin credential manager in Settings > Passkeys > Advanced options, and verify their identity using fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN. Once configured, passkeys saved via 1Password or the system’s passkey manager can be used to log in to compatible websites. Developers are invited to join this initiative by implementing the plugin API at this link.
For broader system changes, the version number in Settings > System > About is now updated to 25H2, aligning with Microsoft’s plan to release annual updates in the second half of the calendar year. The company also adjusted the default browser experience: after setting a new browser via Settings > Apps > Default apps, it will automatically appear pinned on the Taskbar and Start menu unless users opt out.
Several critical fixes are included in the update:
- File Explorer’s Home section now avoids random crashes at startup and retains pinned favorites’ thumbnails.
- Start menu folders no longer display duplicate entries or incorrect animations.
- A recurring crash in ctfmon.exe, which affects typing tools in recent Insider builds, has been resolved.
- A memory leak in the lock screen slideshow mode is now patched to improve performance.
- Additional adjustments ensure system dialogs and messages support increased text scaling for accessibility.
Other fixes address an issue where Dev Channel users might have heard the Windows Vista boot sound instead of Windows 11’s default audio. Microsoft noted this was fixed in previous updates but required refinement in the latest release.
Despite these improvements, Microsoft has identified several known issues:
- Rollback errors: Some users may encounter a 0x80070005 error when installing the update. Affected Insiders can attempt the "Fix issues using Windows Update" tool in Settings > System > Recovery.
- Start menu limitations: Touch interactions, such as swipe gestures, are not functioning reliably. Drag-and-drop operations from "All" to "Pinned" sections also remain unstable.
- Xbox Controller instability: Bluetooth-connected controllers may cause system crashes. A temporary fix involves uninstalling the XboxGameControllerDriver.inf via Device Manager.
- AI feature delays: Click to Do (Preview) may lag on AMD or Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs during initial intelligent text actions.
- Accessibility challenges: Screen reader modes like Narrator have inconsistencies when summarizing AI action results for Microsoft 365 files. A workaround uses keyboard shortcuts (Caps + Right key).
- Widgets menu: A glitch may force users back to the previous version if pinning features are incomplete.
Microsoft reiterated that Control Feature Rollout technology governs the phased deployment of Dev Channel features, starting with select users before expanding. The company warned that some features, including those in Recall or Click to Do, may not be finalized for general release. Translators are requested to report localization errors, as partial language support is expected for ongoing developments.
The update aligns with Microsoft’s new flighting system, which separates the Dev Channel from parallel updates in the Beta Channel. A separate blog post explains the release strategy, and the Flight Hub dashboard offers details about which builds are active in each Insider channel.
The article ends with a reminder for Insiders to contribute feedback via Feedback Hub, particularly regarding security, browser defaults, and AI tools. Microsoft encouraged users to balance testing with caution, as experimental updates may impact stability. Changes in the 25H2 release will next transition to the Beta Channel ahead of the public rollout.
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