- Windows 11 build 26220.9022 is rolling out to the Beta channel for version 25H2.
- Microsoft is bringing back more Taskbar flexibility with options to move the taskbar to the top, left, or right and resize it in a smaller mode.
- The update renews the Windows Insider flight certificate before its August 11, 2026 expiration to keep preview updates working.
- Several reliability fixes address Windows Update installation rollbacks, SMB File History backups, DFS file security warnings, and Bluetooth navigation.
- Microsoft continues expanding Windows 11 improvements as part of the Windows K2 initiative, focusing on customization and quality.
Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Quality Update (26220.9022) for version 25H2 via the Beta experience in the Windows Insider Program. This flight introduces various fixes as part of the Windows K2 initiative, including new features.
According to the official notes, Windows 11 build 26220.9022 introduces the ability to change the position of the Taskbar and an option to make the Taskbar smaller.
In addition, the company is updating the Windows Insider certificate to allow users to continue getting support in future updates, and there are several improvements for Settings, Windows Update, Storage, and File Explorer.
What’s new on Windows 11 update 26220.9022 (Beta)
These are the new features and improvements rolling out in the Beta channel:
Taskbar positions and sizing
Windows 11 is expanding Taskbar personalization with two new options.
You can now move the Taskbar to the top, left, or right side of the screen from Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors.
Taskbar tooltips, flyouts, and animations continue to work in these positions, while most customization options, including never combining taskbar icons, remain available.
Microsoft is also introducing a smaller Taskbar size option designed to free up more screen space, especially on smaller devices. The new setting reduces the Taskbar height and icon size while keeping elements like Start, Search, and the system tray properly scaled.
You can enable it from Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors > Taskbar size.
Some limitations remain. For example, touch gestures, the Search box, and Ask Copilot support for alternate Taskbar positions are still in development. Auto-hidden and touch-optimized taskbars are not supported yet, and the smaller taskbar option currently works only when the Taskbar is positioned at the top or bottom of the screen.
Windows Insider flight certificate update
In addition, Microsoft notes that this build renews the Windows Insider flight certificate, which is required for Insider devices to continue receiving preview builds. Since the current certificate expires on August 11, 2026, the company recommends installing this build (or a later one with the renewed certificate) before that date to avoid interruptions to future updates.
Other changes
In addition, the company fixed several problems with the release of build 26220.9022:
- Settings: Added gamepad navigation support for the Bluetooth Quick Settings page, allowing users to control Bluetooth options with a controller.
- Windows Update: Fixed an issue causing installation rollbacks with error code 0xc1900101 when installing the latest builds.
- Storage: Fixed a File History issue that prevented automatic backups to SMB network shares by incorrectly displaying an “invalid credentials” error during connection attempts.
- File Explorer: Fixed an issue where files on DFS mapped drives could be incorrectly marked as coming from the internet after reconnecting to the network, causing “Preview” pane security warnings or adding unexpected Mark of the Web tags to copied files.
Download Windows 11 update 26220.9022
To download and install these Windows 11 builds, enroll your Devices in the Beta 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.
Alternatively, you can also download the ISO files from the Windows Insider Preview Downloads page. Specific preview builds are available for a limited time only.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 23 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.
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