Windows 11 Dev Channel Update Introduces AI-Powered Search and Removes Internet Bypass

Microsoft
1

Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 for the Dev Channel brings significant changes to the operating system, including AI-enhanced search capabilities and the removal of a popular internet bypass method. This update, also known as KB5054687, continues the development of Windows 11 version 24H2 and introduces features that could reshape how users interact with their PCs.

AI-Powered Semantic Search

The standout feature of this update is the introduction of semantic search for Windows 11 devices equipped with Copilot+ PCs running on Intel and AMD processors. This AI-driven search capability allows users to find files, settings, and applications using natural language queries.

How it works:

  • Users can describe what they’re looking for instead of remembering exact file names or setting locations.
  • The search function works across File Explorer, the taskbar, Start menu, and the dedicated Search interface.
  • It supports multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.
  • Compatible file formats include common document types (.txt, .pdf, .docx, etc.) and image formats (.jpg, .png, .gif, etc.).

To get the most out of this feature, Microsoft recommends enabling the “Enhanced” index option in Settings > Privacy & Security > Searching Windows.

Cloud Image Search with Natural Language

Another notable addition is the ability to search for cloud-stored images using natural language descriptions. This feature is particularly useful for users who store large numbers of photos in cloud services.

Key points:

  • Works with Microsoft account-linked cloud storage.
  • Allows searching for images based on content description (e.g., “mountain biking” for cycling photos).
  • Requires an internet connection and a Microsoft account.

Narrator Speech Recap

Accessibility sees improvements with the new Speech Recap feature for Windows Narrator. This tool helps users keep track of spoken content from the Narrator.

How to use:

  • Access the feature with the keyboard shortcut Narrator key + Alt + X.
  • View up to 500 recent strings produced by Narrator.
  • Copy strings directly to clipboard using Narrator key + Control + X.

Redesigned Green Screen of Death

The update introduces a new design for the Green Screen of Death (GSOD), which is the preview build equivalent of the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). The redesign aligns with Windows 11’s modern aesthetic while maintaining essential technical information for troubleshooting.

Copilot AI Enhancements

Microsoft continues to integrate its AI assistant more deeply into Windows:

  • The Windows key + C shortcut to launch Copilot has been reintroduced.
  • Users can customize the Copilot key action in settings.
  • A new press-to-talk functionality is available using the Alt + Spacebar shortcut.

Improved Windows Share Interface

The Windows Share feature now includes a content preview and new editing options:

  • Users can see a preview of the content they’re about to share.
  • An “Edit” button allows for image modifications like cropping, rotating, and applying filters before sharing.
  • The editing feature supports local images in formats like .jpg, .png, .tif, and .bmp.

Removal of BYPASSNRO Internet Bypass

In a move that may impact some users, Microsoft has removed the bypassnro.cmd script, which previously allowed bypassing internet requirements during Windows 11 installation.

Impact:

  • Users can no longer use the OOBEBYPASSNRO command to install Windows 11 offline or with a local account.
  • This change enforces the use of a Microsoft account during setup.

However, advanced users can still use a command prompt workaround during the Out-of-box Experience:

reg add HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\OOBE /v BypassNRO /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f & shutdown /r /t 0

Additional Fixes and Improvements

The update also addresses various issues across different areas of Windows 11:

  • Taskbar icon scaling in tablet mode has been fixed.
  • The lock screen web sign-in icon has been updated for better visual consistency.
  • Several explorer.exe crashes related to snap layouts have been resolved.
  • Windows Update no longer prompts for reboots for already installed updates.
  • Settings app crashes and text loading issues have been addressed.
  • File Explorer performance and stability have been improved, particularly for zip file extraction and search functionality.

This Windows 11 Dev Channel update showcases Microsoft’s focus on AI integration and user experience improvements. While the removal of the internet bypass option may be controversial for some users, the addition of powerful search capabilities and accessibility features demonstrates the company’s commitment to evolving the Windows platform. As always with preview builds, users should be aware that these features are still in testing and may change before reaching the general public.