- Windows 11 build 28120.3151 is rolling out to the Experimental channel, while build 28020.3142 is available in the Beta channel for 26H1.
- These preview builds add more precise Magnifier zoom controls and several File Explorer improvements.
- Beta build 28020.3142 introduces Cloud rebuild, allowing Windows to reinstall itself from WinRE using the Windows image and drivers downloaded through Windows Update.
- Experimental build 28120.3151 expands Cloud rebuild with drive sanitization and remote management capabilities for IT administrators.
Microsoft is rolling out Windows 11 Insider Preview builds 28120.3151 to the Experimental channel and 28020.3142 to the Beta channel for version 26H1. These updates from the Windows Insider Program include new Magnifier zoom controls and several File Explorer improvements.
The Beta release introduces Cloud rebuild, a new recovery option that can reinstall Windows from the Windows Recovery Environment using files and drivers downloaded through Windows Update. The Experimental release expands Cloud rebuild with a drive sanitization option for devices being recycled or reassigned, along with remote management support for network administrators.
Finally, both preview builds come with a small set of undisclosed improvements and fixes to improve the overall experience.
Cloud Rebuild changes
Microsoft is introducing Cloud Rebuild as a new recovery option in the Beta channel. It lets you reinstall Windows 11 directly from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), even when Windows won’t boot. The feature downloads the target Windows image and device drivers through Windows Update, so you don’t need USB installation media or a custom recovery image.
The Experimental channel is getting an expanded version of Cloud Rebuild with two additional capabilities. You can now choose “Remove & sanitize files” to securely erase data using the storage hardware’s erase capability before reinstalling the operating system, which is useful when recycling or reassigning a computer.
Network administrators can also configure and start a Cloud Rebuild remotely through the Recovery CSP and specify the target Windows build.
File Explorer improvements
Microsoft is also making several smaller improvements to File Explorer in both builds. Folder view customizations, including sorting and icon size preferences, should now remain consistent when accessing folders through different paths and apps.
The address bar now handles paths containing double backslashes and quotation marks more reliably. Microsoft also improved the address bar suggestion dropdown, so it consistently closes after you select an item.
The update also fixes a couple of issues with renaming files and folders, including repeated text selection during renaming and case-only name changes not appearing immediately in local and cloud storage locations.
Magnifier improvements
Microsoft is giving Magnifier more precise zoom controls in both builds. You can now enter an exact zoom percentage directly in the Magnifier toolbar instead of relying only on preset levels.
The Settings dropdown also includes preset zoom increments of 5%, 10%, 25%, 50%, 100%, 150%, 200%, and 400%, making it easier to quickly switch between common magnification levels.
Download Windows 11 update previews
To download and install these Windows 11 builds, enroll your Devices in the Experimental or Beta Channels 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 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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