- Windows 11 build 29680 is rolling out to the Experimental channel for the Future Platforms version with several improvements and fixes.
- File Explorer now handles downloaded file previews differently, while Windows Share lets you pin favorite apps and Settings shows packaged app version numbers.
- The update fixes issues affecting Family Safety messaging, Taskbar visuals, and certain USB Audio Class 1.0 devices, including multichannel headsets.
Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Quality Update (29680) for the Feature Platforms version in the Windows Insider Program. This update brings fixes and improvements as part of the Windows K2 initiative.
According to the official notes, Windows 11 build 29680 is rolling out with improvements to Windows Share, Settings, and File Explorer, including pinned Share apps, app version numbers, and updated file preview behavior.
The update also fixes issues affecting USB audio devices, Remote Desktop, Taskbar visuals, and system performance, although Microsoft is still investigating a known issue that can cause performance to decline over time.
What’s new on Windows 11 build 29680 (Experimental)
These are the new features and improvements rolling out in the Experimental channel:
File previews get a useful update
File Explorer now handles previews for files downloaded from the web differently. HTML files show a Preview anyway button so you can acknowledge the warning before viewing them, while non-HTML files such as PDFs are previewed automatically. Microsoft also fixed an issue that caused an unexpected bar to appear in the middle of previews in recent builds.
Pin apps in Windows Share
Windows Share is becoming a little more convenient, with the ability to pin your favorite apps directly in the Share window.
This makes frequently used sharing options easier to access when you need them.
App versions are easier to find
The Settings > Apps > Installed apps page now shows the version number for packaged apps at the top level.
The change brings packaged apps in line with other apps that already display their version information there.
Other fixes
Windows 11 update 29680 also rolls out some other smaller fixes and improvements:
- Family Safety: Improved messaging now explains more clearly when an application is blocked because of age-restricted parental controls.
- Taskbar: Fixed a few small visual issues when using the Taskbar in alternate positions.
- Audio: Fixed an issue affecting certain USB Audio Class 1.0 devices, including some multichannel audio headsets, that could prevent them from working correctly after installing recent updates.
Download Windows 11 update 29680
To download and install these Windows 11 builds, enroll your Devices in the Experimental channel for the Future Platforms version 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.
You can follow him on YouTube, Threads, BlueSky, X (Twitter), LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].
