Microsoft recently released new preview updates for Windows 11 24H2 and Windows 11 25H2, and they include a number of new features that general users will eventually receive with future updates.
The build numbers are 26100.8942 (for 24H2) and 26200.8942 (for 25H2). Significant new features include changes to File Explorer, Windows Search, Voice Access, touchpads, and Windows Hello.
What’s new in this preview update?
File Explorer is being redesigned to make it a little more practical to use. One quality-of-life improvement is file sizes in the details view automatically being converted to MB or GB instead of always showing as thousands or millions of KBs. You can also open folders directly in a new tab using the middle mouse button. In the “Recommended” section, the file preview display has also been improved.
When it comes to Voice Access and voice control, Microsoft is enhancing the input options with a number of new features. Voice Isolation is designed to filter out background noise from the environment, but other voices can also be (optionally) identified and suppressed.
In addition, Microsoft is working on improving Windows Search. It now takes into account file names consisting of just two letters. Furthermore, the search will find the correct app even if the name isn’t spelled out in full or if the query contains spelling mistakes.
Windows users who use a precision touchpad can also look forward to new settings that allow them to customize scroll and zoom speeds.
Microsoft is also making a few changes to the Windows 11 Start menu to make it easier to use with a keyboard. The account section now also displays the current subscription status for Microsoft services.
Users can also once again set a custom battery level at which the PC will switch to power-saving mode. The update also simplifies the use of widgets on the lock screen. For new users, only the weather widget is now displayed on the lock screen by default.
How to get the update
You can find a full list of all changes in the official release notes. Some of the new features are being rolled out gradually, while others will be available immediately once you install the preview update.
Note that this is a preview update, meaning it’s only available to Windows Insiders as of this writing. It will later be released to everyone as an optional update. If you want to try it now, you’ll need to join the (free) Windows Insider Program. Learn more about the pros and cons of becoming a Windows Insider.
By the way: If you’re using Windows 11 Home, you’re missing out on the many benefits of Windows 11 Pro. To learn more, see our comparison of Windows 11 Home and Pro. If you want to upgrade, snag it for cheap in the PCWorld Software Store: now just $59 instead of $99.
