- Microsoft resumes the rollout of preview builds in the Dev Channel.
- The update KB5038603 resumes the previous feature rollout and brings changes.
- This release includes updates for the Start menu, File Explorer, Taskbar, and more.
Microsoft resumes the Dev Channel with the release of Windows 11 build 26120.1252 as the update KB5038603 with new features, changes, and fixes.
According to the official notes from July 15, 2024, the build 26120.1252 is part of the version 24H2 development branch, and the new improvements are now rolling out gradually for those devices with the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option turned on.
As part of the changes, update KB5038603 continues the rollout of the new features that started with build 26120.961 and then paused. The Start menu now allows users to drag and pin apps to the Taskbar.
You can also drag and drop files between locations using the breadcrumb of the address bar on File Explorer. This update also fixes a problem that could crash the “explorer.exe” process when navigating to another page from the Home page.
The Lock screen now shows weather and other widgets by default, but you can turn off this experience from Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
In the Taskbar, Microsoft notes that the Widgets icon is being improved so that it’s clearer, and now it includes more animations. In addition, the app icon flashing in the Taskbar is now easier to notice.
The update KB5038603 fixes the error 0x80370106 when using Windows Sandbox and resolves an issue where the volume isn’t preserved after restarting Microsoft Edge.
Microsoft is also rolling out fixes for minor issues with the Task View, Input Method Editor (IME), and Voice Typing in certain languages, such as Chinese.
Furthermore, for some mobile operators, this release updates Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles, fixes duplicate text in the “Power & Battery” settings page, and more.
To download and install these preview builds of Windows 11, enroll your device in the Dev Channel through the “Windows Insider Program” settings from the “Update & Security” section. Once you enroll the computer in the program, turn on the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option, and then you can download the build from the “Windows Update” settings by clicking the “Check for Updates” button.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].