Microsoft has released new builds for the Windows 11 Release Preview Channel, targeting versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1. These updates, identified as builds 26100.9267 and 26200.9267 for the 24H2 and 25H2 versions, and build 28000.2796 for the 26H1 version, contain a variety of interface modifications and performance improvements.
For users on versions 24H2 and 25H2, the update introduces a more flexible taskbar that can be repositioned to any side of the screen and resized. The Start menu has also received updates, allowing for resizing and replacing the previous Recommended section with a new Recent section. Users now have independent toggles to control the visibility of Pinned, Recent, and All items within the menu.
Windows Search has been streamlined to provide a less cluttered home view, with added user controls to toggle the display of web and Store results. File Explorer includes minor performance enhancements and touch scrolling adjustments. Additionally, the operating system features updated progress indicators for system processes such as startup, sign-in, restart, shutdown, and update installations.
The update for version 26H1, build 28000.2796, focuses on different refinements, including middle-click support in File Explorer, improved file thumbnail handling, and better management of file size displays. Windows Search in this build has been updated to better handle typos and partial application names, while also incorporating results from the Settings app.
Other changes across the builds include a new interface for the Windows Share feature and the reintroduction of administrator protection, which remains disabled by default. Microsoft has also implemented minor updates to multiple desktops, display settings, Task Manager, and the Windows setup experience to improve overall system consistency.