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Received — 24 June 2026 ⏭

Balancing Equity and Efficiency with Atkinson’s Welfare

✇Science Mag
By: SCIENMAG
24 June 2026 at 14:39

In the evolving landscape of global water resource management, addressing the persistent tension between equitable distribution and cooperative efficiency remains a paramount challenge. A pioneering study recently published in Nature Water introduces an innovative Atkinson social welfare function (SWF)-based framework that operationalizes distributive equity alongside systemic efficiency within transboundary water systems. By embedding equity explicitly as a normative design criterion, this framework leverages an adjustable inequality aversion parameter, providing policymakers with a powerful tool to balance social justice with optimal resource use.

At the heart of this advancement lies the mathematical backbone of the Atkinson SWF, a function well-regarded for its flexibility in capturing societal preferences for inequality reduction. The framework transforms equity from a nebulous ideal into a quantifiable, adjustable dimension directly integrated within multi-objective optimization. Applied to the Zambezi Watercourse—a complex shared basin impacting multiple countries—the model reveals that introducing inequality aversion yields only modest reductions in total hydropower output, around 1–2.7%, while significantly lowering disparities in country-level generation by 3 to 8 points on the Atkinson index.

This nuance is crucial because natural constraints such as water availability and turbine capacity inherently limit the scope for redistributing hydropower output to improve equity. Instead, the model shows that inequality aversion primarily affects firm generation capacity, where Zimbabwe and Zambia experience substantial percentage increases during critical periods, reflecting strategic operational shifts. Mozambique’s generation remains relatively stable. Such findings underscore a pragmatic approach to equity: rather than static allocation, operational strategies can target support during vulnerable drought conditions, effectively marrying resilience with justice.

Importantly, the concave utility assumption underlying inequality aversion parallels risk aversion concepts in economic theory. This alignment suggests that what often appears as an efficiency sacrifice in pursuit of equity may, in fact, represent a system more robust to uncertainty and stressors. In water resource contexts marked by ecological variability and competing demands, this insight reframes equity not as a zero-sum trade-off but as integral to sustainable cooperation.

A key innovation of the framework is its dynamic adaptiveness during optimization, eschewing rigid allocation rules or static weightings. For instance, when factoring in floating photovoltaic (FPV) investments alongside traditional hydropower, Mozambique assumes the full cost of preserving near-natural environmental flows in its delta—sacrificing 41% of hydropower generation and facing frequent low-output periods. Yet, this environmental stewardship shifts investment priorities away from Zambia to Mozambique without requiring prior distributional knowledge, thereby reducing inequality by 25 Atkinson index points with a modest overall production trade-off of 4.2%. This responsiveness is a critical advancement for transboundary water management, where power dynamics and environmental conditions are perpetually in flux.

The study deliberately calibrates its inequality aversion parameter, epsilon (ϵ), at 2—a level representing strong equity preference—to demonstrate the framework’s capabilities. However, it recognizes stakeholder perspectives may differ widely. Rather than treating epsilon as a technical constant, the authors advocate viewing it as a parameter for deliberation, surfacing explicit negotiation choices among diverse actors. Structured choice experiments could translate complex mathematical trade-offs into intuitively understandable options, enabling stakeholders to reveal implicit equity preferences through participatory processes. This approach dovetails with the multi-objective optimization’s Pareto frontier, which transparently spans the spectrum from maximal efficiency to maximal equity, thus facilitating informed trade-offs.

The researchers embed a normative assumption in their baseline welfare function: treating each country as an equally weighted actor, reflecting sovereignty principles inherent in international water law and institutional arrangements like ZAMCOM, the Zambezi Watercourse Commission. This aligns with the ‘one state, one vote’ doctrine, appropriate for interstate governance frameworks. Yet, the team acknowledges the normative and practical implications of population-weighted alternatives. Incorporating population in the welfare aggregate could, for example, prioritize individual welfare across riparian states rather than equal state-level standing. Such distinctions have profound implications—especially in basins like the Zambezi where the most populous country, Mozambique, has the lowest per-capita hydropower generation.

Extending the framework to a population-weighted SWF or a per-capita welfare input introduces normative choices about justice, as these measure equity through fundamentally different lenses: aggregate human welfare versus national sovereignty. In scenarios where population rankings and per-capita generation rankings conflict, these alternatives may pull policy preferences in divergent directions, underscoring the need for societal dialogue to resolve such trade-offs.

While the study focuses on interstate equity, it also addresses the crucial gap of intrastate disparities, which country-level metrics risk obscuring. Implementing the framework at subnational scales would necessitate coupling basin-wide hydrological models with detailed power system dispatch simulations and geospatial electrification mapping. Though technically complex, such integration promises to capture localized inequalities in access and generation more effectively. Preliminary attempts, such as those conducted in Ghana, employ inequity metrics like the Gini index but lack Atkinson’s adjustable inequality aversion—an essential feature for nuanced policy negotiation. The authors argue that their SWF framework offers scalable advantages for applying distributive justice across regional or even community scales, especially in data-scarce, transboundary environments.

A particularly thought-provoking question arises around accommodating group-specific inequality aversion across demographic or vulnerability categories—such as gender-differentiated impacts or subregional disparities within countries. From a methodological standpoint, the study identifies significant hurdles. Introducing distinct epsilon parameters for multiple groups compromises the anonymity and Pigou-Dalton consistency properties fundamental to welfare economics and adds layers of unquantifiable normative complexity. Instead, the authors advocate maintaining a single inequality aversion parameter, deferring subgroup analyses to disaggregated data where possible and allowing these insights to inform participatory negotiations.

Complementary approaches, including incorporation of needs-referenced thresholds consistent with prioritarian ethics, face challenges tied to the Atkinson function’s strict positivity constraints and the difficulty of justifying group-specific thresholds beyond narrowly defined legal or vulnerability classifications. Ultimately, the study emphasizes that the framework’s power lies in making equity visible and operationally relevant, rather than complicating aggregation with layered value parameters.

Beyond hydropower and water management, this Atkinson SWF-based approach holds broader applicability. Many resource allocation challenges characterized by monotonic, concave utilities—such as renewable energy deployment, biodiversity conservation, or climate adaptation finance—stand to benefit from formalized equity-efficiency trade-offs. Threshold effects or objectives with increasing returns require separate treatment within multi-objective optimization, but many relevant environmental and social goals fit the concavity assumption well.

As climate change intensifies variability in precipitation and water availability, the necessity of cooperative frameworks balancing equity and efficiency becomes ever more urgent to prevent breakdowns in international water agreements. By operationalizing the principle of ‘equitable and reasonable utilization,’ this research translates normative international water law doctrines into tangible, evidence-based decision tools that directly relate to real-world human welfare and environmental sustainability outcomes. The Atkinson SWF, with its adaptable inequality aversion and capacity for participatory negotiation, emerges as a promising lynchpin for future transboundary water governance.

In conclusion, this study marks a notable advance towards integrating distributive justice within multi-actor optimization models for shared water systems. It demonstrates how explicit normative assumptions can coexist with rigorous technical analysis to produce outcomes that are both efficient and equitable. The dynamic responsiveness embedded in the framework addresses the complexity and uncertainty of water sharing arrangements, facilitating adaptive cooperation even as political and climatic conditions evolve. This balanced approach, supported by empirical application to the Zambezi basin, could serve as a blueprint for operationalizing equity in other transboundary resource settings worldwide.

As demands on common-pool resources mount, such integrative approaches will be indispensable for sustaining long-term cooperation. By linking sophisticated welfare economics with participatory policy processes and cutting-edge water system simulations, this research provides both the theoretical foundation and practical pathway to reconcile competing values on the international stage. The Atkinson SWF-based equity framework thus represents a crucial step towards more just, resilient, and sustainable shared water futures.

Subject of Research:
Optimization of distributive equity and cooperative efficiency in transboundary water resource systems using Atkinson’s social welfare function.

Article Title:
Balancing equity and efficiency in transboundary water systems with Atkinson’s welfare function.

Article References:
Arnold, W., Giuliani, M. & Castelletti, A. Balancing equity and efficiency in transboundary water systems with Atkinson’s welfare function. Nat Water (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44221-026-00671-4

Image Credits:
AI Generated

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1038/s44221-026-00671-4

GitHub Actions hardens checkout security to block ‘pwn request’ attacks

✇InfoWorld
23 June 2026 at 00:43

Stung by a surge in cyberattacks that have run amok in developer environments, GitHub has strengthened the security of actions/checkout to block ‘pwn request’ attacks that exploit insecure use of the pull_request_target workflow trigger to run an attacker’s code with the workflow’s full privileges.

Announced on June 18, actions/checkout v7 now automatically blocks and fails workflows when used inside pull_request_target or workflow_run events when attempting to fetch unreviewed fork pull request code.

From now on, the only away around these checks will be for developers to implement an opt out by adding an explicit allow-unsafe-pr-checkout to actions/checkout, GitHub said in its V7 changelog.

The change signals the beginning of a new ‘secure by default’ era in which security will be defined by the GitHub system rather than being left to discretion of developers. As part of that effort, on July 16, the new defaults will be backported to all supported major versions.

“Workflows pinned to a floating major tag (e.g., actions/checkout@v4) will automatically pick up the change. Workflows pinned to a specific SHA, minor, or patch version aren’t affected by the backport and will need to upgrade using Dependabot or through established upgrade processes,” GitHub explained.

However, because pwn request attacks can happen in other ways, “further hardening of additional events may be explored in future releases,” the changelog added.

Blind spot

If there’s a criticism that can be levelled at GitHub over this, it’s that it has taken so long to address a weakness that’s been known about for years.

The issue is with GitHub Actions, which allows triggers to run workflows, including pull_request, which processes third-party forks without giving access to secrets such as API keys, service tokens, and credentials. The downside is that this restriction prevents some automations from working, which is why developers turn to an alternative trigger, pull_request_target, which grants the required access.

At some point, attackers realized that where pull_request_target was configured carelessly with actions/checkout to pull in untrusted fork code, it offered a back door into repositories and their secrets.

In other words, the weakness in pull_request_target isn’t the trigger itself, which is legitimate and secure when correctly used, but in its  incorrect use. As GitHub’s changelog puts it: “Checking out the head of an unreviewed pull request from a fork inside one of these workflows typically lets attacker-controlled code execute with the workflow’s full privileges.”

The arrival of actions/checkout v7, however, should make this harder, automatically blocking risky workflows regardless of their configuration.

Unfortunately, a lot of damage has already been done. Open source repositories have recently come under sustained attacks from the TeamPCP hacking group, using a variety of techniques, including pwn requests.

A notable example was its attack last month, which compromised 170 node package manager (npm) packages, including the TanStack Router ecosystem, thanks to a pwn request exploit. Embarrassingly, in a separate incident not involving a pwn request, GitHub itself was breached and the attackers exfiltrated source code from around 3,800 of the company’s internal repositories.

Better late than never, GitHub has sprung into action, plotting a series of security reforms on the platform, including, earlier this month, limiting automatic install script execution in npm.

Scientists Have Found “The Heaven Sword” After Years of Looking

✇SciTechDaily
By: Deborah Pirchner · Frontiers
22 June 2026 at 21:48
Giant Forest in TaiwanA decade-long search through Taiwan’s remote forests led to the discovery of East Asia’s tallest tree and hundreds of other towering giants. An 84-meter-tall tree is surprisingly easy to miss. Hidden within Taiwan’s steep mountains and dense old-growth forests are some of the tallest trees on Earth, including giant conifers that rise higher than a [...]

Windows 11 Insider Previews: What’s in the latest build?

✇Computerworld
22 June 2026 at 07:44

Windows 11 25H2 has been publicly released, but behind the scenes, Microsoft is constantly working to improve the newest version of Windows. The company frequently rolls out preview builds to members of its Windows Insider Program, allowing them to test out — and help shape — upcoming features.

Skip to the latest builds

Our story “How to preview and deploy Windows 10 and 11 updates” details how the Insider program has worked until now. However, Microsoft recently announced sweeping changes to the program that will include the ability to select which new features to test. As the first step, the company is introducing a new channel system and transitioning Insiders like so:

  • Beta Channel > Beta
  • Beta Channel (for devices on Windows 11 version 26H1) > Beta (26H1)
  • Dev Channel > Experimental
  • Canary Channel (28000 series) > Experimental (26H1)
  • Canary Channel (29500 series) > Experimental (Future Platforms)
  • Release Preview Channel > Release Preview 24H2/25H2
  • Release Preview Channel (for devices on Windows 11 version 26H1) > Release Preview (26H1)

This transition is happening over time, starting with the Dev Channel. See Microsoft’s blog post for more information about the transition.

Below you’ll find information about the Windows 11 preview builds that have been announced by Microsoft in the past six months. For each build, we’ve included the date of its release, which Insider channel it was released to, a summary of what’s in the build, and a link to Microsoft’s announcement about it.

Note: If you’re looking for information about updates being rolled out to all Windows 11 users, not preview builds for Windows Insiders, see “Windows 11: A guide to the updates.”

The latest Windows 11 Insider preview builds

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8690

Release date: June 19, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

This update improves the reliability of the Start menu and of Settings > Apps > Startup. It also fixes one virtualization bug that could result in bug checks citing HYPERVISOR_ERROR (0x20001) and KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED (0x1E) errors after installing the latest flights on some devices during system restarts, virtual machine operations, or while running some gaming applications.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8690.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2308

Release date: June 19, 2026

Released to: Beta 26H1 Channel

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 11 26H1. It also improves the reliability of the inbox HD Audio driver.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2308.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8697

Release date: June 19, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

Several minor new features are being rolled out gradually in this build, including improving visual consistency and reliability of the Copy dialog in Dark mode. It also fixes one virtualization bug that could result in bug checks citing HYPERVISOR_ERROR (0x20001) and KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED (0x1E) errors after installing the latest flights on some devices during system restarts, virtual machine operations, or while running some gaming applications.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8697.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28120.2315

Release date: June 19, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 11 26H1. It also improves the reliability of the inbox HD Audio driver and improves caption style responsiveness by redrawing captions immediately for caption style changes.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28120.2315.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29613.1000

Release date: June 19, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build gradually rolls out adjustments to Settings > System > Sounds, by updating the “All sound devices” page with the ability to change default devices from this page and other enhancements.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29613.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Release Preview Builds 26100.8728 and 26200.8728

Release date: June 12, 2026

Released to: Release Preview 24H2/25H2 Channel

A wide variety of features and enhancements are being gradually rolled out in this build, including increased reliability of the Windows networking stack. It reduces bug checks (blue screen errors) related to Wi-Fi power and improves cellular (WWAN) connectivity, including support for IPv6 VPNs. Compatibility with third-party VPN software and SR-IOV configurations on server hardware is also improved. Network adapter settings and bindings are now preserved across OS upgrades.

Immediately rolling out are several quality improvements, including additional high-confidence device targeting data, increasing coverage of devices eligible to automatically receive new Secure Boot certificates. Devices receive the new certificates only after demonstrating sufficient successful update signals, maintaining a controlled and phased rollout.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26100.8728 and 26200.8728.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28000.2333

Released to: Release Preview 26H1 Channel

Release date: June 12, 2026

This build, for Insiders using Windows 11 26H1, gradually rolls out a wide variety of new features, including improved visibility into NPU usage in Task Manager. New optional NPU and NPU Engine columns are available on the Processes, Users, and Details pages, along with NPU Dedicated Memory and NPU Shared Memory optional columns on the Details page. Neural engines that are part of a GPU now appear on the Performance page, providing a more complete view of AI-related activity. A new optional Isolation column on the Processes and Details pages shows which apps are running in an AppContainer. You can add any of the new columns by right-clicking a column header in Task Manager and selecting them from the menu.

Being rolled out immediately is improved Netlogon secure channel connections between domain controllers, enabling successful connections from member servers to domain controllers set up before 2025.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28000.2333.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8680

Release date: June 12, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

This update offers a wide variety of changes and improvements, including a new set of default Widget settings designed to reduce unexpected alerts and visual interruptions. They include:

  • Disabling Open on hover by default
  • Turning off Taskbar badging by default
  • Opening to widgets experience on first launch
  • Placing Weather as the only default widget on the lockscreen
  • Restricting the number of Taskbar alerts that can be sent daily
  • Limiting Taskbar alerts until you choose to open and engage with the Widgets experience

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8680.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2298

Release date: June 12, 2026

Released to: Beta 26H1 Channel

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 11 26H1. It also introduces the new screen tint accessibility setting. In addition, Task Scheduler will now persist column width adjustments in task list view across sessions.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2298.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8687

Release date: June 12, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

Several minor new features and enhancements are being rolled out gradually in this build, including improved reliability of loading the system tray area of the taskbar and a new recovery remote management plug-in for extending WinRE management capabilities for MDM providers.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8687.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28120.2302

Release date: June 12, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 11 26H1. It also accelerates app launch and core shell experiences such as Start menu, Search, and Action Center.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28120.2302.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29599.1000

Release date: June 12, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build gradually rolls out several minor changes and improvements, including improved performance when navigating to see storage on large volumes via Settings > System > Storage > Advanced Storage Settings > Disks & Volumes.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29610.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8575

Release date: June 8, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

This update adds the ability to extend Windows Update as many times as you need. It also fixes three bugs: one that caused audio not to work, another that impacted the reliability of Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, and a third that caused freezes with search, Notepad, and other parts of Windows.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8575.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2236

Release date: June 8, 2026

Released to: Beta 26H1 Channel

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 11 version 26H1.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2236.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28120.2242

Release date: June 8, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 11 version 26H1.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28120.2242.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8544

Release date: May 29, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

Several minor new improvements and fixes are being rolled out in this build, including consistent solid (donut) spinners across key Windows scenarios including Boot, Logon, Restart, Shutdown, and Update. This update replaces legacy spinner visuals to deliver a more cohesive experience aligned with Windows design standards. Users will now see a unified spinner behavior with corresponding status text (e.g., “Restarting”, “Working on updates”, “Welcome”).

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8544.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8553

Release date: May 29, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

Several minor new features are being rolled out gradually in this build, including a number of changes to the Start menu. These were first outlined in the May 15 Insider blog post Making Taskbar and Start more personal. They include:

  • “Recommended” section renamed to “Recent” in Start and Settings page
  • Section-level toggles to independently show or hide Pinned, Recommended, and All
  • Choose between a small and large Start menu, in addition to already available “Automatic (default)” setting
  • Option to hide your name and profile picture in Start
  • Redesigned Start menu settings page

One known issue, in which resetting your PC may have gotten stuck when using “Reset this PC,” has been fixed.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8553.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2207

Release date: May 29, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This update, in Microsoft’s words, “includes a small number of minor bug fixes and improvements.”

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2207.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29599.1000

Release date: May 29, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build gradually rolls out several minor changes and improvements that, in the words of Microsoft, include “platform changes in moving to a new active development build.” The update also gradually rolls out a fix for a bug in which some Insiders unexpectedly saw an erroneous message saying they weren’t connected to internet (when they actually were) when signing into their Microsoft account in certain apps. It also improves CPU speed display on the Performance page of Task Manager for VMs, so it doesn’t show higher than unexpected numbers after resuming from hibernate.

There is one known issue that causes crashes with AMD machines supporting System Guard, so these devices in Windows Information Protection will not be offered the build.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29599.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8491

Release date: May 22, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

This update, in Microsoft’s words, “includes a small number of minor bug fixes and improvements.” It introduces Voice Isolation, a new option in Voice Access that helps the tool focus on your voice, even when others are speaking nearby, by filtering out other voices and background noise.

Microsoft says the single known issue with this release, in which your PC could have gotten stuck when using “Reset this PC,” has been fixed.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8491.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8497

Release date: May 22, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

A variety of new features are being rolled out gradually in this build, including several to improve accessibility. Among them are making it easier to connect the Braille display to Narrator by using the HID open industry standard for Braille displays. If your display supports HID, connect it via USB, with no additional setup required. For Bluetooth, pair your HID Braille display in Settings > Bluetooth & devices just like any other accessory. Another new feature is Voice Isolation in Voice Access, as detailed for Beta Channel Build 26220.8491 above.

The build has one known issue, in which your PC may get stuck when using “Reset this PC.” To complete the reset successfully, choose the cloud download option (Cloud PBR) instead of local.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8497.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2149

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

Release date: May 22, 2026

This build, for Insiders using Windows 11 26H1, gradually rolls out a wide variety of new features, including one that improves the reliability of explorer.exe when closing the input switcher, and when switching between multiple desktops.

Microsoft says the single known issue with this release, in which your PC could have gotten stuck when using “Reset this PC,” has been fixed.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2149.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29595.1000

Release date: May 22, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build, in the words of Microsoft, “includes platform changes in moving to a new active development build.”

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29595.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8474

Release date: May 15, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

Several minor new improvements are being rolled out in this build, including one that improves the reliability of Simple Service Discovery Protocol (SSDP) notifications to help prevent the service from becoming unresponsive.

It has one known issue in which your PC may get stuck when using “Reset this PC.” To complete the reset successfully, choose the cloud download option (Cloud PBR) instead of local.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8474.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8493

Release date: May 15, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

A variety of new features are being rolled out gradually in this build, including the ability to change the position of taskbar on your screen. In Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar Behaviors, you can select the side of the screen you want your taskbar on: bottom, top, left, or right. In these other positions, tooltips, flyouts, and animations will still come from the taskbar, and most customization settings like “small taskbar” and “never combine taskbar icons” will work with all locations.

It has one known issue in which your PC may get stuck when using “Reset this PC.” To complete the reset successfully, choose the cloud download option (Cloud PBR) instead of local.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8493.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2134

Release date: May 15, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This build gradually rolls out an improvement in the reliability of Simple Service Discovery Protocol (SSDP) notifications to help prevent the service from becoming unresponsive. It also rolls out gradual changes to updating Windows, including the ability to skip updates immediately during the out of box experience (OOBE) and to extend update pauses as many times as you need.

It has one known issue in which your PC may get stuck when using “Reset this PC.” To complete the reset successfully, choose the cloud download option (Cloud PBR) instead of local.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2134.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29591.1000

Release date: May 15, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build introduces new features for Windows Update, including the ability to skip updates immediately during the out of box experience (OOBE) and to extend update pauses as many times as you need. New Windows update features also include having always available options to shut down and restart with updating, and additional insight about available updates to make more informed installation decisions.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29591.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26200.8514/26200.8514

Release date: May 14, 2026

Released to: Release Preview 24H2/25H2 Channel

A wide variety of features and enhancements are being gradually rolled out in this build, including a new shared audio feature that allows two people to listen to the same audio from a single Windows 11 PC at the same time. In addition, Task Manager now offers improved visibility into NPU usage on PCs with an NPU. New optional NPU and NPU Engine columns are available on the Processes, Users, and Details pages, along with NPU Dedicated Memory and NPU Shared Memory optional columns on the Details page. 

One new feature is being rolled out immediately, in which Windows quality updates now include additional high-confidence device targeting data, increasing coverage of devices eligible to automatically receive new Secure Boot certificates. Devices receive the new certificates only after demonstrating sufficient successful update signals, maintaining a controlled and phased rollout.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26200.8514/26220.8514.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28000.2173

Released to: Release Preview 26H1 Channel

Release date: May 14, 2026

This build, for Insiders using Windows 11 26H1, gradually rolls out a wide variety of new features, including one that expands the list of archive formats that can be used in File Explorer to include uu, cpio, xar, and NuGet Packages (nupkg). Also being gradually rolled out is a new way to monitor your agents from the taskbar. It supports agents across first- and third-party apps, with Researcher in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app as the first adopter.

One new feature is being rolled out immediately, in which Windows quality updates now include additional high-confidence device targeting data, increasing coverage of devices eligible to automatically receive new Secure Boot certificates. Devices receive the new certificates only after demonstrating sufficient successful update signals, maintaining a controlled and phased rollout.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28000.2173.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8370

Release date: May 8, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

Several minor new improvements are being gradually rolled out in this build, including improved reliability of Japanese IME usage when Administrator Protection is enabled. In addition, the build fixes a single bug, in which there were notification issues and certain apps hung on launch.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8370.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8376

Release date: May 8, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

A variety of new features are being rolled out gradually in this build, including new File Explorer address bar support for paths containing double backslashes and quotation marks (for example, C:\Users\user or “C:\Users\user”), improving compatibility with a wider range of inputs.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8376.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2075

Release date: May 8, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This build gradually rolls out, in Microsoft’s words, “a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 26H1. It also improves performance when opening clipboard history.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.2075.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29585.1000

Release date: May 6, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build gradually rolls out, in Microsoft’s words, “platform changes in moving to a new active development build.”

It also updates the experience when you use voice typing with the touch keyboard. To reduce distractions, the new design removes the previous full‑screen overlay and instead shows voice typing animations directly on the dictation key.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29585.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8340

Release date: May 1, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

Several minor new improvements are being gradually rolled out in this build, including making Windows ShareSheet more intelligent for Azure Active Directory (AAD) users, with a simple setting to turn promotional app recommendations on or off. Previously, that capability was only available to Windows users with Managed Service Accounts (MSA).

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8340.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8346

Release date: May 1, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

A variety of new features are being rolled out gradually in this build, including making Windows ShareSheet more intelligent for Azure Active Directory (AAD) users, with a simple setting to turn promotional app recommendations on or off. Previously, that capability was only available to Windows users with Managed Service Accounts (MSA). Another change “quiets” the default behavior for Widgets, with the goal of making them feel less distracting and overwhelming.

There are several known issues in this build, including one in which Insiders who use Feature flags to enable the new WIP experience may see the feature state incorrectly marked as current; however, changing state and applying changes will work as expected.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8346.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1921

Release date: May 1, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This build gradually rolls out several improvements to Task Manager, including one that provides better insight into NPU usage for PCs that include an NPU. Optional NPU and NPU Engine columns are now available on the Processes, Users, and Details pages, with optional NPU Dedicated Memory and NPU Shared Memory columns on the Details page to give you deeper visibility into how workloads are using NPU resources. Additionally, if there are neural engines that are part of a GPU, they will now appear on the Performance page, providing a more complete view of AI‑related system activity.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1921.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29580.1000

Release date: May 1, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build gradually rolls out, in Microsoft’s words, “a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders running this build on their PCs.”

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29580.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8283

Release date: April 24, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

Several minor new improvements and fixes are being gradually rolled out in this build, including improved detection of clicks at the leftmost edge of the taskbar to invoke the Start menu when the taskbar icons are left-aligned.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8283.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8289

Release date: April 24, 2026

Released to: Experimental Channel (formerly Dev)

In a phased rollout, Insiders in the Dev Channel are being moved to the new Experimental channel. Insiders who do not see the new experience on their device can enable it under Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program > Feature flags.

Several minor new features are also being rolled out gradually in this build, including improved detection of clicks at the leftmost edge of the taskbar to invoke the Start menu when the taskbar icons are left-aligned.

There is one known issue in this build: Insiders who use Feature flags to enable the new Insider experience may see the feature state incorrectly marked as current; however, changing the state and applying changes should work as expected.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8289.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28200.1873

Release date: April 24, 2026

Released to: Experimental 26H1 Channel (formerly Canary)

This build is gradually rolling out a variety of small improvements, including an updated voice typing experience for the touch keyboard. To reduce distractions, the new design shows voice typing animations directly on the dictation key rather than on a full-screen overlay.

It also fixes a bug in which Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage showed large, unrealistic values.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28200.1873.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29576.1000

Release date: April 24, 2026

Released to: Experimental Future Platforms Channel (formerly Canary optional 29500)

This build is gradually rolling out a variety of changes, including Point-in-time restore for Windows, which can quickly roll your device back to a previous state, potentially helping minimize downtime and simplify troubleshooting when disruptions strike. 

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29576.1000.)

Windows 11 Builds 26100.8313 and 26200.8313 (KB5083631) 

Release date: April 17, 2026

Released to: Release Preview Channel

This build introduces a wide variety of new features rolled out gradually, including a new way to monitor your agents from the taskbar. It supports agents across first- and third-party apps, with Researcher in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app as the first adopter. When Researcher works on a report, Windows shows progress on the taskbar so you can check updates at a glance.

For IT administrators, the update gradually rolls out support for a dynamic app removal list to the “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages” policy for Windows Enterprise and Education. It also removes default trust for cross‑signed third-party drivers, while drivers from the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) and an allow list of trusted legacy drivers remain allowed. Enterprise State Roaming can now be managed through Windows Backup for Organizations policies.

The update also immediately introduces two minor improvements for everyone. Windows quality updates now include additional high-confidence device targeting data, which increases coverage of devices eligible to automatically receive new Secure Boot certificates. In Windows Security, the name of the affected application is now included in event logging related to CVE‑2024‑30098. This change makes it easier to identify applications that rely on smart card certificates and may need updates following recent security changes.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Builds 26100.8313 and 26200.8313.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8271

Release date: April 17, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

Several minor new features were made available in this build for those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, including improved reliability and performance of Windows Hello fingerprint after your PC wakes from sleep.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8271.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8276

Release date: April 17, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

In this build, several minor new features are being gradually rolled for those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, including improved reliability and performance of Windows Hello fingerprint after your PC wakes from sleep.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8276.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1863

Release date: April 17, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build fixes a bug that prevented some apps from signing in due to a false report of no internet connectivity. The fix is rolling out gradually.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1863.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29570.1000

Release date: April 17, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel (29500 build series)

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates in the Canary Channel on the optional 29500 build series, this build has a variety of minor changes rolling out gradually, including more widget options and support for lock screen widget personalization, a new setting in Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touchpad that lets you can choose how large the right-click zone is, and support for a dynamic app removal list to the “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages” policy for Windows Enterprise and Education.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29570.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8165

Release date: April 10, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several minor features, including one in which the size limit for formatting FAT32 volumes via the command line has increased from 32GB to 2TB, and another in which the Windows Security app gets new badges and text that reflect your device’s Secure Boot state and certificate status.

It also gradually rolls out a fix for a bug that caused Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage to show large, unrealistic values.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8165.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8170

Release date: April 10, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several minor features, including one in which the size limit for formatting FAT32 volumes via the command line has increased from 32GB to 2TB, and another in which the Windows Security app gets new badges and text that reflect your device’s Secure Boot state and certificate status.

It also gradually rolls out a fix for a bug that caused Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage to show large, unrealistic values.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8170.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1812

Release date: April 10, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out general improvements and fixes, including a new setting that lets users choose the size of their touchpad’s right-click zone, as well as new badges and text in the Windows Security app that reflect your device’s Secure Boot state and certificate status.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1812.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29565.1000

Release date: April 10, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel (29500 build series)

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates in the Canary Channel on the optional 29500 build series, this build includes “platform changes in moving to a new active development build,” as well as new badges and text in the Windows Security app that reflect your device’s Secure Boot state and certificate status

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29565.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8148

Release date: April 3, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several minor features, including a new icon in print settings to indicate when a printer supports Windows Protected Print Mode.

Several bugs are also being fixed, including one in which some apps weren’t able to sign in, citing an internal connection issue when internet was actually connected.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8148.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8155

Release date: April 3, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several minor features, including one in which users will be able to feel haptic feedback effects on compatible input devices while performing certain actions, such as aligning objects in PowerPoint, window snapping, resizing, or hovering over the Close button. These haptic effects can be configured in Settings under Bluetooth & devices > Mouse > Haptic signals.

Several bugs have also been fixed, including one in which some apps weren’t able to sign in, citing an internal connection issue when internet was actually connected.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8155.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1803

Release date: April 3, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates in the Canary Channel, this build includes a small set of general improvements and fixes, including improved reliability for configuring the fluid dictation option in voice typing settings.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1803.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29560.1000

Release date: April 3, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel (29500 build series)

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates in the Canary Channel on the optional 29500 build series, this build “includes platform changes in moving to a new active development build,” in the words of Microsoft. Several bugs have also been fixed, including one in which attached USB devices weren’t working for some Insiders.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29560.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8138

Release date: March 30, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several new features, including one in which you can enable Administrator Protection in Settings under Privacy & security > Windows Security > Account protection and switching the toggle to on. A restart will be required. 

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8138.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8142

Release date: March 30, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several new features, including one in which you can enable Administrator Protection in Settings under Privacy & security > Windows Security > Account protection and switching the toggle to on. A restart will be required. 

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8142.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1797

Release date: March 30, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience” of running Windows 11.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1797.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29558.1000

Release date: March 30, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel (29500 build series)

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates in the Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel on the optional 29500 build series, this build introduces several new features, including a variety of improvements to the Windows Console, many of which were created by open-source contributors. Several bugs have also been fixed, including an authentication error people received when trying to connect to Azure Virtual Desktop.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29558.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8079

Release date: March 20, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several bug fixes, including for one in which the Network and Sharing Center incorrectly displayed two active Wi-Fi connections after switching from one Wi-Fi network to another. The Network and Sharing Center now correctly shows a single active Wi-Fi connection when you connect to a new network. 

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8079.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8085

Release date: March 20, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build resumes rollout of the Point Indicator Accessibility setting, which enables low-vision users to easily locate and use their cursor. The build also introduces the new Feedback Hub, which offers Insiders simpler navigation and feedback submission flows.

In addition, several bugs were fixed, including one in which the Network and Sharing Center incorrectly displayed two active Wi-Fi connections after switching from one Wi-Fi network to another. The Network and Sharing Center now correctly shows a single active Wi-Fi connection when you connect to a new network.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8085.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1743

Release date: March 20, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build includes several new features being rolled out gradually, including one in which shared audio now provides individual sliders for each listener which adjusts their volume without affecting the other. You can continue to adjust volume for both listeners at the same time through the main volume controls available through Quick Settings or on-device and keyboard controls.

The build also introduces the new Feedback Hub, which offers Insiders simpler navigation and feedback submission flows.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1743.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29553.1000

Release date: March 20, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel (29500 build series)

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates in the Canary Channel’s optional 29500 build series, this build introduces the new Feedback Hub, which offers Insiders simpler navigation and feedback submission flows.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29553.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8062

Release date: March 13, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build includes numerous changes and refinements, including an update to the “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages” policy for Windows Enterprise and Education SKUs that allows IT administrators to remove MSIX/APPX apps by adding their app package family name (PFNs) to a dynamic list.

Starting with this update, the Windows kernel will enforce a new policy removing default trust for cross-signed drivers. The policy allows third-party drivers from the WHCP program by default, with an allow list of trustworthy publishers and drivers from the cross-signing program.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8062.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8068

Release date: March 13, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build includes numerous changes and refinements, including an update to the “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages” policy for Windows Enterprise and Education SKUs that allows IT administrators to remove MSIX/APPX apps by adding their app package family name (PFNs) to a dynamic list.

Starting with this update, the Windows kernel will enforce a new policy removing default trust for cross-signed drivers. The policy allows third-party drivers from the WHCP program by default, with an allow list of trustworthy publishers and drivers from the cross-signing program.

(Get more info about  Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8068.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1737

Release date: March 13, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build makes refinements to the Pen settings page, including small changes to the options for the pen tail button. A new option, “Same as Copilot key,” enables the pen tail button to launch the same app as the Copilot key.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1737.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29550.1000

Release date: March 13, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel (29500 build series)

For those  who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates in the Canary Channel’s optional 29500 build series, this build has a variety of minor changes, including one in which changes to global power settings (for example, Display, Sleep, Hibernate timeouts, Power/Sleep button, and lid close actions) from Settings are now applied to all power plans. This should help improve persistence of chosen settings.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29550.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26100.8106 and 26200.8106

Release date: March 12, 2026

Released to: Release Preview Channel

This build introduces a wide range of minor features being rolled out gradually, including the ability to turn Smart App Control (SAC) on or off without needing a clean install. To make changes, go to Settings > Windows Security > App & Browser Control > Smart App Control settings. When turned on, SAC helps block untrusted or potentially harmful apps.

The update also improves stability in Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) when you run x64 apps on ARM64 devices. These apps run more smoothly and respond as expected.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26100.8106 and 26200.8106.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7961

Release date: March 6, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build re-enables Administrator protection, which aims to protect free-floating admin rights for administrator users, allowing them to still perform all admin functions with just-in-time admin privileges. This feature is off by default and can be enabled via OMA-URI in Intune or via group policy.

Other changes and improvements being gradually rolled out to the same group include the ability to use voice typing (Windows key + H) when renaming files in File Explorer, as well as a smaller peek view in the drag tray.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7961.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7965

Release date: March 6, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build re-enables Administrator protection, which aims to protect free-floating admin rights for administrator users, allowing them to still perform all admin functions with just-in-time admin privileges. This feature is off by default and can be enabled via OMA-URI in Intune or via group policy.

Other changes and improvements being gradually rolled out to the same group include the ability to use voice typing when renaming files in File Explorer, as well as a smaller peek view in the drag tray.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7965.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1685

Release date: March 6, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build lets you use voice typing (Windows key + H) when renaming files in File Explorer. The build also improves the reliability of removing Windows Update files and windows.old files via Settings > System > Storage.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1685.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7934

Release date: Feb. 27, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gives administrators and Application Control for Business policy authors additional controls over the processing of batch files and CMD scripts. Starting with this release, admins can enable a more secure mode for processing batch files that ensures they do not change during execution by adding a value to the registry key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor named LockBatchFilesWhenInUse (DWORD, value 0 or 1). Policy authors can also use the LockBatchFilesWhenInUse application manifest control documented here to enable this mode.

There are a variety of other improvements being rolled out gradually, including one in which a new taskbar indicator displays while you’re sharing, giving a quick reminder that audio is still being shared. Clicking the indicator is a fast path to open sharing settings to change volume or stop sharing.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7934.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7939

Release date: Feb. 27, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who opted to receive the latest updates, this build gives administrators and Application Control for Business policy authors additional controls over the processing of batch files and CMD scripts. Starting with this release, admins can enable a more secure mode for processing batch files that ensures they do not change during execution by adding a value to the registry key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor named LockBatchFilesWhenInUse (DWORD, value 0 or 1). Policy authors can also use the LockBatchFilesWhenInUse application manifest control documented here to enable this mode.

There are a variety of other improvements being rolled out gradually, including one in which a new taskbar indicator displays while you’re sharing, offering a quick reminder that audio is still being shared. Clicking the indicator is a fast path to open sharing settings to change volume or stop sharing.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7939.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1673

Release date: Feb. 27, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have opted to receive the latest updates, this build gets a variety of new features being rolled out gradually, including one in which Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) now turns on automatically for enterprise managed Windows Professional devices, as well as Windows Professional devices that are not domain-joined. These devices receive the same recovery features available to Windows Home users. For domain-joined devices, QMR stays off unless it is enabled by the organization.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1673.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7872

Release date: February 20, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build offers a variety of new features, including simplified specifications on the ‘Device info’ Card on the Settings Home page and improved mouseover animations for app groups on the taskbar.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7872.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7877

Release date: February 20, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build offers a variety of new features, including simplified specifications on the ‘Device info’ Card on the Settings Home page and improved mouseover animations for app groups on the taskbar.

Several bugs have also been fixed, including one in which all File Explorer open windows and tabs unexpectedly jumped to Desktop or Home.

Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7877.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1619

Release date: February 20, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build offers a variety of new features, including one in which Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS) supports peripheral fingerprint sensors. Previously, ESS was only available on PCs with built-in biometric sensors, but now it can be used when you plug in a supported ESS fingerprint reader.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1619.)

Optional Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29531.1000

Release date: February 18, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

This build is the first in a new Canary Channel optional path with a focus on platform development, which will introduce new features before the existing 28000 Canary Channel series. Microsoft recommends that most people remain on the 28000 build path, but adds that those who want to get the newest platform changes as early as possible may want to switch to this new 29500 path. Note, though, that if you switch to the 29500 path by installing this build, you won’t be able to go back to the 28000 Canary Channel series.

The build itself, in Microsoft’s words, “includes platform changes in moving to a new active development build.”

Microsoft warns, “because of the focus on platform development for this path, you may notice a temporary loss in some features that you have today. These features will return to this new active development build.”

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 29531.1000.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7859

Release date: February 17, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build displays an option to upgrade to a different Microsoft 365 plan on the Accounts page within the Settings app. It also rolls out fixes for several bugs, including one in which all File Explorer open windows and tabs unexpectedly jumped to Desktop or Home.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Preview Build 26220.7859.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918

Release date: February 17, 2026

Released to: Release Preview Channel

This build gradually rolls out a variety of new features, including one in which Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) now turns on automatically for Windows Professional devices that are not domain‑joined and not enrolled in enterprise endpoint management. These devices receive the same recovery features available to Windows Home users. For domain‑joined or enterprise managed devices, QMR stays off unless it is enabled by the organization. The build also improves login screen reliability.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1611

Release date: February 12, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

This build brings Sysmon functionality natively to Windows. Sysmon functionality allows you to capture system events that can help with threat detection, and you can use custom configuration files to filter the events you want to monitor. The captured events are written on the Windows event log, enabling them to be used with security applications and in a wide range of use cases.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1611.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7755

Release date: February 9, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several new features, including Emoji 16.0, which contains a new set of emojis, and the ability to directly control pan and tilt for supported cameras in the Settings app.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 226220.7755.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7760

Release date: February 9, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several new features, including Emoji 16.0, which contains a new set of emojis, and the ability to directly control pan and tilt for supported cameras in the Settings app.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7760.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1546

Release date: February 4, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

This update, in the words of Microsoft, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience for Insiders” running Windows.

It also fixes one bug that affected apps working with files stored on OneDrive or Dropbox.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1546.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7752

Release date: February 3, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

Those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates get Sysmon functionality natively in Windows. Sysmon functionality allows you to capture system events that can help with threat detection, and you can use custom configuration files to filter the events you want to monitor. The captured events are written on the Windows event log, enabling them to be used with security applications and a wide range of use cases. (This feature is being gradually rolled out.)

The same group also gets a number of bug fixes being gradually rolled out, including for a File Explorer bug in which icons/tooltips for “Add to favorites” were missing.

(Get more info about Insider Preview Build 26220.7752.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7733

Release date: February 3, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

Those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates get Sysmon functionality natively in Windows. Sysmon functionality allows you to capture system events that can help with threat detection, and you can use custom configuration files to filter the events you want to monitor. The captured events are written on the Windows event log, enabling them to be used with security applications and a wide range of use cases. (This feature is being gradually rolled out.)

The same group also gets a number of bug fixes being gradually rolled out, including for a File Explorer bug in which icons/tooltips for “Add to favorites” were missing.

(Get more info about Insider Preview Build 26300.7733.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1495

Release date: January 28, 2025

Released to: Canary Channel

This build, in Microsoft’s words, “includes a small set of general improvements and fixes that improve the overall experience [of Windows 11].” It also fixes a variety of bugs, including one that led to the Windows Update settings page hanging when loading.

The build has two known issues, one that sometimes causes all open File Explorer windows and tabs to unexpectedly jump to Desktop or Home in File Explorer, and another in which the desktop watermark is showing the wrong build number.

(Get more info about Insider Preview Build 28020.1495.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26100.7701 and 26200.7701

Release date: January 27, 2026

Released to: Release Preview Channel

This build gradually rolls out a variety of new features for Copilot+ PCs, including one in which Narrator gives you more control over how it announces on‑screen controls. You can choose which details are spoken and adjust their order to match how you navigate apps. These settings apply throughout the app to help reduce extra speech and make Narrator easier to follow.

The build also immediately rolls out a variety of new features for all PCs, including one in Data Protection Application Programming Interface (DPAPI) domain backup key management. Administrators can now set how often keys rotate automatically. This strengthens cryptographic security and reduces reliance on older encryption algorithms.

(Get more info about Insider Preview Builds 26100.7701 and 26200.7701.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7670

Release date: January 27, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several bug fixes, including for an issue in which the Search process was showing an icon with an X instead of a magnifying glass.

The build has five known issues, including one in which some Insiders’ apps aren’t showing in the system tray when they should be.

(Get more info about Insider Preview Build 26220.7670.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7674

Release date: January 27, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

In this build, the Dev Channel jumps ahead to receive 26300 series builds. This means that the window to switch from the Dev Channel to the Beta Channel is closed once Build 26300.7674is installed on your PC. This build for the Dev Channel is identical to the Windows 11 Build 26220.7653 release (see below).

(Get more info about Insider Preview Build 26300.7674.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7653

Release date: January 21, 2026

Released to: Dev Channel

This build for the Dev Channel is identical to the January 16th Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7653 released to the Beta Channel. See the writeup below for details.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7653.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7653

Release date: January 16, 2026

Released to: Beta Channel

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out several changes, including one in which you can now set .webp images for your desktop background in Settings > Personalization > Desktop Background.

The same group also gets a number of bug fixes being gradually rolled out, including for a bug in which Settings crashed when interacting with audio devices.

The build has four known issues, including one in which some Insiders’ apps aren’t showing in the system tray when they should be.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7653.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1371 

Release date: January 14, 2026

Released to: Canary Channel

This build gradually rolls out a variety of bug fixes for those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, including a bug in which File Explorer showed a white flash when navigating between pages.

There is one known issue in this build: The desktop watermark shows the wrong build number.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1371.)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535

Release date: January 9, 2026

Released to: Dev & Beta Channels

For those who have turned the toggle on to receive the latest updates, this build gradually rolls out Copilot-powered image descriptions to Narrator on Copilot+ PCs, making it possible for blind and low-vision users to hear detailed, AI-generated descriptions of images, charts, and graphs.

The same group also gets a number of bug fixes being gradually rolled out, including for an issue in which File Explorer was causing explorer.exe to crash for some Insiders when invoking the context menu on the desktop.

The build has seven known issues, including one in which Settings crashes when interacting with audio devices.

(Get more info about Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535.)

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