Microsoft has begun distributing Windows 11 build 26120.3073 (KB5050090) to the Dev and Beta Channels of the Windows Insider Program. This update focuses on enhancing the search functionality, refining the Settings app’s Home page, and implementing several key bug fixes.
The company also recently released Windows 11 build 27783 in the Canary Channel, which introduces new visual improvements.
A significant change with this release is the convergence of the Dev and Beta Channels, meaning devices in both channels will now receive identical builds. Beta Channel users will transition to version 24H2 development.
Initially, Beta Channel devices will have the choice to install the 24H2 builds, but automatic updates will eventually be enforced.
Key Changes in Windows 11 Build 26120.3073
The KB5050090 update brings the following notable changes:
- Enhanced Windows Search with cloud-based results
- Updated Home page in the Settings app
- Various bug fixes for Taskbar, File Explorer, and more
Enhanced Windows Search with Cloud Results
This build introduces an improved Windows Search experience that leverages natural language processing to find images stored in the cloud.
For instance, searching for “mountain biking” should display relevant photos if you have images of cycling.
This improvement is part of the Semantic Indexing initiative, which integrates AI capabilities into Windows Search.
Natural language image search is currently available for users with Microsoft accounts and an active internet connection. Users with work or school accounts will see results based on keyword matching.
This functionality is initially rolling out to Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon processors. Support for AMD and Intel Copilot+ PCs will be added in future updates.
Updated Settings App Home Page
Build 26120.3073 adds two new cards to the Home page of the Settings app, displaying enterprise-specific device information and accessibility preferences.
Managed computers that are logged in with both a Microsoft account and a work account will see a card indicating the presence of both accounts.
Resolving Installation Issues
If you find that you’re experiencing installation issues, try manually triggering the update.
Step 1: Open the Settings app.
Step 2: Navigate to Windows Update.
Step 3: Click the Check for updates button.
Installation Process
To get this Windows 11 build, you must enroll your device in the Dev and Beta Channel through the “Windows Insider Program” settings found in the “Update & Security” section.
Step 1: Open the Settings app.
Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Insider Program.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to enroll your device in the Dev or Beta Channel.
Step 4: After enrolling, go to Windows Update settings.
Step 5: Enable the "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available" option.
Step 6: Click the "Check for Updates" button.
Other Fixes Included
This update also delivers a range of fixes for various components:
- Taskbar: Resolved an issue where Taskbar preview windows sometimes failed to appear.
- File Explorer: Improved stability when browsing folders with many media files and fixed a rendering bug affecting minimized windows.
- Windows Search: Fixed a bug where certain search results were missing during offline Outlook searches.
- Live Captions: Fixed an issue where the Live Captions icon remained in the Taskbar after disconnecting a second monitor.
- Remote Desktop: Addressed display and rendering problems when connecting to specific computers.
- Settings: Fixed crashes that occurred when interacting with the Bluetooth & Devices settings page.
- Other Fixes: Corrected color distortion when using GDI+, improved shutdown times, fixed interaction issues with the Windows Security Wi-Fi pop-up, and resolved some issues within
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The company has also noted known issues with Recall, Click to Do, Live Captions, Windows Search, and File Explorer.
This update offers several improvements and fixes for Windows 11 users in the Dev and Beta Channels, enhancing the overall user experience.