Microsoft is releasing Windows 11 build 26120.3281 (KB5052086) to the Dev and Beta Channels of the Windows Insider Program. As part of the version 24H2 development, this update introduces new functionalities and enhances existing ones.
According to Microsoft, update KB5052086 for Windows 11 introduces the Resume feature, allowing you to continue working on a file on your computer that you started on your iPhone or Android phone.
This release also enhances the Windows Recall feature with a new filtering option. The Jump List now lets you share files directly from the Taskbar. Microsoft is also implementing changes to simplify the Snap feature, along with improvements to File Explorer, Spotlight for the Lock Screen and Desktop, and various fixes and enhancements.
New features in Windows 11 build 26120.3281 (Dev and Beta)
Here’s a look at the most notable changes in the latest Windows 11 preview.
Resume Feature
The update KB5052086 for Windows 11 introduces the “Resume” feature, also known as “work across devices.” Once enabled, if you begin working on a document from your OneDrive account on your phone and then unlock your computer within five minutes of working with the file, a notification will appear on your desktop, allowing you to pick up where you left off on your computer.
This feature requires using the same Microsoft account across all devices. It is not compatible with work or school accounts and is only supported for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and PDF files.
Enabling the Resume Feature
Step 1: Navigate to Settings > Apps > Resume.
Step 2: Turn on the “Resume” toggle switch.
Windows Recall Filtering Option
The most effective method is the ability to filter specific apps or websites from being recorded. This offers a more direct and granular control over what data is captured.
When you open the Recall flyout from the System Tray, you’ll find a new option that allows you to filter an app or website from being recorded.
Microsoft has also stated that this update will delete your current snapshots to improve the feature’s user experience.
Taskbar Share Option
Starting with build 26120.3281, a new option is available for sharing files directly from the Jump List in the Taskbar. To share a recent file, right-click on an app like Notepad and click the “Share” button next to the file.
Snap Layouts Enhancements
The Snap Layouts feature is updated with inline descriptions to guide users on how to use it.
When opening the Snap Layouts menu from the maximize button, a “Choose where to move this window” message now appears, along with the keyboard shortcut to activate the feature without hovering over the window button.
Additionally, dragging an app to the top edge of the screen will display the message “Drag a window here to arrange it on your screen,” providing another hint on using the feature.
File Explorer Improvements
This update includes an option to snooze or disable the “Start backup” prompt in the address bar, which encourages backing up files to OneDrive.
File Explorer will now restore your open tabs if the “Restore previous folder windows at logon” option is enabled in the “Folder Options” settings.
Furthermore, the logic of the “Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in” option in the “Sign in options” page has been updated. Enabling this feature will automatically turn on the “Restore previous folder windows at logon” option.
Windows Spotlight for Lock Screen and Desktop
Changes have been implemented for Windows Spotlight to make it easier to find information about an image. Hovering over the image or clicking the “Learn about this picture” icon will provide more details.
A new icon for the Spotlight feature and dynamic text related to the current wallpaper are also introduced.
Clicking the “Like” button for an image on the Lock Screen will also provide additional information about it.
Settings Home Page Update: Game Pass Card
The updated Game Pass card now includes an option to invite friends to try the service for free if you have a Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass subscription.
Location History Feature Removal
Microsoft is removing the Location History feature, an API previously used by Cortana to access 24 hours of device history.
Additional Fixes and Improvements
This update addresses several issues for devices enrolled in the Dev and Beta Channels:
- Performance: Resolved an issue where Task Manager consumed excessive CPU resources.
- Lock Screen: Fixed a crash that prevented password resets from the login screen.
- File Explorer: Improved text scaling for better accessibility and corrected a visual glitch in the “see more” menu.
- Taskbar: Fixed an issue with the date and time display on multi-monitor setups.
- Windows Search (Copilot+ PCs): Added missing animations to the search boxes, resolved issues where search might be unresponsive or not work, and fixed a bug where a tip about new search features appeared too frequently.
- Mouse: Fixed a problem where custom mouse pointer colors reverted to white during User Account Control (UAC) prompts.
- Settings: Fixed a crash preventing some users from opening the Settings app.
- Shared PCs: Resolved a login issue for Guest accounts on Shared PCs with specific security settings.
Additionally, account-based content in File Explorer is disabled for Entra IDs in the European Economic Area (EEA).
The company is also aware of certain known issues related to Recall, Click to DO, Live Caption, File Explorer, and Power and Battery settings.
Installation Instructions
To get this Windows 11 build, enroll your device in the Dev or Beta Channel via the “Windows Insider Program” settings found in the “Update & Security” section. After enrolling, you can download the build from the “Windows Update” settings by enabling the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option and selecting “Check for Updates.”
These updates offer a glimpse into the ongoing development of Windows 11, providing users with new features and improvements.