Windows 10 build 9926: Hands-on with updated UI, Cortana, Tablet mode, Action Center, Store beta, apps (video)

Windows 10 Technical Preview (build 9926) is the latest release of the next version of Microsoft’s operating system. This new preview includes a number of features and enhancements over the previous release, which was build 9879. From top-to-bottom everything in Windows 10 build 9926 is new, as such to make more sense of what’s new, I created a new hands-on video, which I’m uploading to Pureinfotech’s YouTube channel highlighting the most important features and changes:

In the new video, I dig deeper into everything is new in the operating system, including:

  • Cortana: The longtime rumored, Microsoft’s digital assistant is now officially integrated in Windows 10. However, even though she works, Cortana still needs a lot work.
  • Continuum: Microsoft first talked about Continuum back in 2014 and it showed a video with a concept of the feature. Now in Windows 10 build 9926, Continuum is working and the software maker calls the feature “Tablet mode”, and it allows users to have a seamless experience when using hybrid devices.
  • Start menu: The Start menu in build 9926 has been refined, you cannot resize it like in previous releases, but you can full screen it. Over all the new updated menu looks a lot better, but there is still a lot of work to be done.
  • Action Center: An updated notification center is introduced in the January Technical Preview. The new Action Center for Windows 10 brings all the system, apps, and other notifications to a single place, which also features Quick Access tiles to enable features such as Tablet mode, Wi-Fi, GPS, VPN, and more.
  • Settings: Microsoft is also updating the Settings app in Windows 10, which will eventually replace the Control Panel. Settings has a new interface, but the software giant still has a lot of work to do in this area. Windows Insiders will also notice that they can’t no longer update the operating system via the traditional Control Panel, moving forward users will only be able to update Windows via the Settings app.
  • Windows Store (beta): Build 9926 includes the first beta version of the unified Store. The interface has a completely new look, and very similar to the Apple’s App Store. The Windows Store features more information and elements in a more reduced space.
  • Apps: The Windows 10 Technical Preview also bundles a bunch of new apps including: Calculator, Alarms, Photos, Camera, Get Started, Contact Support, Maps, Xbox, and Windows Feedback.
  • Desktop: Finally, the Desktop has an updated look, you’ll notice new icons, thinner fonts and new thinner elements.

SEE ALSO: Windows 10 build 9926: Known issues you should know before installing

I have embedded the video above with everything that is new to Windows 10 build 9926. For more Windows 10 news, check out my coverage here.

Enjoy!

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.