Introduction
Microsoft has rolled out Insider Preview Build 26220.7051 for Windows 11 in both the Dev and Beta Channels, continuing its cadence of preview builds for version 25H2 and beyond. This build brings incremental feature additions, refinements and important fixes ahead of a wider public release. Insider participants can now test the enhancements and provide feedback.
Which Channels & Who Gets It?
The build is available to devices enrolled in the Windows Insider Program under the Dev Channel (for more cutting-edge changes) **and** the Beta Channel (for more polished previews).
Keep in mind: features may roll out gradually via the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” toggle. Microsoft still maintains that Dev/Beta builds may diverge in features and stability. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Key Features & Improvements
While Microsoft hasn’t published a full dedicated article for this exact build number, it builds on recent improvements seen in builds 26220.xxxx series (e.g., build 26220.6972). Highlights likely included are:
- Enhanced quality in File Explorer handling of large file extractions and multi-archive performance. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Improved display and graphics performance (including smoother monitor mode querying and reduced stutter on high resolution displays). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Updates to Start menu reliability and fix for certain screenshot shortcuts causing the menu to close unexpectedly. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Settings and Optional Features page improvements, such as loading reliability and accessibility. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Miscellaneous bug fixes across Windows Update, remote credential guard, print preview, and other system components. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Known Issues & What to Watch
As expected for Dev/Beta Preview builds, there are known issues to keep in mind:
- Some devices may experience missing features if they have the “latest updates toggle” turned off. Microsoft has responded by re-working update delivery. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Large-archive extraction performance issues reported in earlier flights may still persist for some users. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Some UI elements (especially on high-DPI or multi-monitor setups) may behave unexpectedly, for example in File Explorer or system dialogs. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Tip: If you rely on your PC for critical work, you may wish to wait until the official release or run this build on a secondary machine.
How to Install the Build
- Go to Settings → Windows Update → Windows Insider Program and confirm you’re in the Dev or Beta Channel.
- Make sure your PC is updated to the baseline version (e.g., Windows 11 version 25H2 or relevant build) and that you have good battery/backup.
- Check for updates and look for Build 26220.7051 (or similar 26220.xxxx) and click Download & Install.
- After installation, allow your PC to reboot and then check for any additional cumulative updates for this build.
- Open the Feedback Hub (WIN+F) and report any issues you encounter under the category “Windows Insider Program.”
Why This Build Matters
Every build in the 26220 series signals Microsoft’s push toward robust incremental improvements ahead of the next feature update. For insiders and power users, this flight offers a chance to preview what’s coming, gauge stability, and provide direct feedback.
Should You Update Now?
If you’re enrolled in the Insider Program and you’re comfortable with preview builds, then yes — this build is safe to try. But if your PC is central to your daily work and you prefer stability, you may want to wait for the publicly released version.
