- Windows 11 build 26220.9568 is rolling out through the Beta Channel for version 25H2 with new accessibility features and smaller system improvements.
- Pointer Indicator makes the cursor easier to locate, while the new Magnifier contrast theme reduces glare without changing the colors of photos, videos, or charts.
- Phone Link now lets users preview recent messages and notifications directly from the Start menu by hovering over them.
- Other changes include dark mode for File Explorer’s Folder Options, a USB Audio fix, and visual refinements to Temporary files in Storage settings.
Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Quality Update (26220.9568) for version 25H2 via the Beta channel in the Windows Insider Program. This update introduces several accessibility improvements and smaller operating system updates as part of the Windows K2 initiative.
According to the official notes, Windows 11 build 26220.9568 introduces the Pointer Indicator, which makes the mouse cursor easier to locate, while the new Magnifier contrast theme provides a lower-glare interface without changing the colors of photos, videos, or charts.
The Phone Link integration in Start can now preview recent messages and notifications when you hover over them, while File Explorer now supports dark mode in the Folder Options dialog.
Finally, Microsoft also fixed an issue affecting some USB Audio Class 1.0 devices and made minor visual refinements to the Temporary files section under Storage settings.
What’s new on Windows 11 update 26220.9568 (Beta)
These are the new features and improvements rolling out in the Beta channel:
Pointer Indicator new feature
The Pointer Indicator is a new Accessibility feature that allows low vision users to locate and use the cursor more easily.
To enable the feature, open Settings > Accessibility > Mouse pointer and touch, and enable the “Pointer Indicator” toggle switch.
Once enabled, you can invoke the feature using the “Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + X” shortcut.
Phone Link gets more useful from Start
Microsoft is making the Phone Link companion in Start more useful by letting you preview recent activity without reaching for your phone. Hover over a recent message or notification in the “Recent” section to see its content directly in Start, making it easier to check what’s new or decide whether something needs your attention.
The experience is rolling out to Beta Channel Insiders with Phone Link version 1.26021.3.0 or later. You can manage it from Phone Link > Settings > Start menu personalization.
Magnifier adds a new way to reduce screen glare
Bright screens can be uncomfortable, and Windows 11 is giving users another way to reduce glare without distorting everything on screen. The Magnifier now includes a contrast theme toggle that you can turn on directly from the Magnifier toolbar, giving the interface a darker appearance while keeping photos, videos, and charts in their original colors.
The dark theme is enabled by default, but you can choose the contrast theme used by the toggle under Settings > Accessibility > Magnifier. Microsoft says this is separate from color inversion, which remains available and works as before.
Other fixes
Windows 11 update 26220.9568 also rolls out some other smaller fixes and improvements:
- File Explorer: The Folder Options dialog now supports dark mode, bringing the interface in line with the rest of the dark-themed File Explorer experience.
- Audio: Microsoft fixed an issue affecting certain USB Audio Class 1.0 devices, including some multichannel audio headsets, that could stop working correctly after installing the latest updates.
- Settings: The Temporary files section under Settings > System > Storage gets small visual refinements.
Download Windows 11 update 26220.9568
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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