- Windows 11 builds 29570 and 28020.1863 (KB5083824) roll out in the Canary Channel for versions 27H2 and 26H1.
- This update rolls out Xbox mode, a policy update to debloat the system, and context menu changes.
- In addition, the Touchpad settings gain new adjustable zone controls, Pen settings get updated, and more.
Microsoft is releasing Windows 11 build 29570 for version 27H2 and Windows 11 build 28020.1863 (KB5083824) for version 26H1 in the Canary channel, delivering another incremental update with new features and fixes.
According to the official changelog, “Windows 11 Insider Preview Quality Update (29570)” rolls out platform changes to move to a new active development. Also, it rolls out Xbox mode for PCs, updates the policy to debloat the operating system, and pushes changes for the context menu.
In addition, the “Touchpad” settings page now includes the option to enlarge the right-click zone, expands the widget options and support for the Lock screen across all regions, and includes new Pen settings.
Windows 11 build 29570
In the Canary Channel, build 29570 introduces these new changes:
Xbox mode new feature
Xbox mode is now rolling out to regular PCs, bringing a console-style experience to laptops, desktops, and tablets.
The feature has been designed around the Xbox app interface, and this full-screen mode prioritizes your games while reducing background activity and distractions. It’s built for a more relaxed, controller-first experience, letting you jump in and play without the usual desktop clutter.
You can enable Xbox mode from Settings > Gaming > Xbox mode by turning on the “Enable Xbox mode” toggle switch.
Debloat policy changes for Microsoft apps
Windows 11 is also introducing a more flexible way for organizations to control preinstalled apps through an updated policy that removes Microsoft Store packages.
The change is intended for administrators of the Enterprise and Education editions, who can extend the “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages” policy with a dynamic list. This allows additional MSIX and APPX apps to be removed by specifying their app package family names through Group Policy.
The update gives organizations granular control over default apps beyond the standard list, making device customization more scalable in managed environments.
Context menu UI update
Starting with build 29570, Microsoft is updating the context menu so that when you right-click a specific file (such as “.exe,” “.bat,” or “.cmd”), the “Open” entry will also display the app icon associated with the file.
Touchpad customization
In this release, Microsoft is also adding a new setting in the “Touchpad” page under Settings > Bluetooth & devices, which lets you choose the size of the right-click zone, the portion at the bottom-right of the touchpad.
The new setting lets you choose between default, small, medium, and large.
Microsoft notes that this setting only appears for touchpads with a pressable surface. Also, some manufacturers may provide customization for this in their own apps.
If your device is configured with a custom setting through an app, the “Custom” option will appear in the “Touchpad” settings.
Pen settings update
According to the official notes, Windows 11 now includes a clearer, modern pen settings page and a new “Same as Copilot key” option to open the same app as the “Copilot” key.
Windows 11 build 28020.1863 (KB5083824)
As part of the Windows 11 build 28020.1863, the company rolls out general improvements and fixes to improve the overall experience.
Finally, this update only includes a single fix for an issue that prevented some apps from signing in due to a false report of no internet access.
Other details
It’s important to clarify that Windows 11 26H1 is not a feature update for existing devices. The software giant has explicitly confirmed that version 26H1 is not an upgrade path for computers running Windows 11 25H2 or any earlier release.
This release is designed exclusively for new ARM64 hardware and will ship only on next-generation computers, starting with devices powered by Snapdragon X2 Plus, Elite, and Extreme processors. Systems based on Intel or AMD platforms will never receive Windows 11 26H1 through Windows Update or any other supported upgrade channel.
Preview build download
To download and install this Windows 11 build, enroll your devices in the Canary Channel through the “Windows Insider Program” settings from the “Update & Security” section. Once you enroll the computer in the program, you can download the build from the “Windows Update” settings by turning on the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option and clicking the “Check for Updates” button.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 22 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
You can follow him on YouTube, Threads, BlueSky, X (Twitter), LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].
