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Microsoft Releases New Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds with Search and Widget Updates

Microsoft is rolling out new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds across multiple channels, bringing a redesigned search experience and fresh widget capabilities. The update fundamentally changes how users interact with system features.
White Windows 11 logo and text on a solid blue background.
White Windows 11 logo and text on a solid blue background.

Microsoft has released new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds to the Beta and Experimental channels, introducing several new features following the company's Windows + Surface event.

Available builds

The following builds are now available:

  • Beta: Build 26220.9606
  • Experimental: Build 26340.9616
  • Beta (26H1): Build 28020.3172
  • Experimental (26H1): Build 28120.3181
  • Experimental (Future Platforms): Build 29683.1000

Windows Search redesign

Microsoft is rolling out a redesigned Windows Search experience built on WinUI 3, featuring a faster, more efficient interface with streamlined design for easier scanning of results. The update introduces inline actions, allowing users to complete tasks directly from search—including toggling dark mode or Bluetooth, adjusting screen brightness, muting the device, or arranging windows.

The improved search engine also better understands user queries, with enhanced matching for typos and synonyms. Microsoft said it will continue refining these improvements over the coming weeks.

Battery Status widget

A new Battery Status widget is now available for Insiders on newer builds. The widget displays a unified view of battery levels across a PC and connected peripheral devices, eliminating the need to check multiple locations for power status. Users can add it by navigating to Widgets board > Add widgets > Battery Status.

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