Discover the Latest Features in Windows 11 25H2: Enhanced File Explorer, Windows Studio Effects, and More

New Windows 11 Insider Builds Released: Enhancements Now Available

Happy Friday! Microsoft has just rolled out two new builds for Windows 11 Insiders. Build 26220.5790 for Windows 11 version 25H2 is now available in the Dev Channel, while build 26120.5790 can be accessed by Beta Channel users. These builds bring several exciting features and enhancements to the operating system.

Key Updates and Features

Today’s updates aim to enrich user experience with multiple new functionalities. Among them are:

Windows Studio Effects for external cameras
Enhanced accessibility features for Copilot+ PCs
New action buttons in File Explorer
A range of system fixes

Introducing Fluid Dictation for Voice Access

One of the standout features in this release is the introduction of Fluid Dictation in voice access on Copilot+ PCs. This innovative tool enhances the voice dictation process, improving both its smoothness and intelligence. It automatically corrects grammar, punctuation, and filler words in real-time, which minimizes the need for manual edits. This feature leverages on-device small language models (SLMs) for quick and private processing. To activate it, simply open voice access and follow the setup instructions if it’s your first time using it. Fluid dictation is enabled by default, but you can adjust its settings using the options available in the top-right corner or toggle it verbally with the command “turn on/off fluid dictation.”

Fluid Dictation on Copilot PCs in Windows 11

This feature is supported in all text applications, although it will remain disabled in secure fields like passwords and PINs to safeguard user privacy. Currently, Fluid Dictation is available for all English locales on Copilot+ PCs.

Expanding Windows Studio Effects to More Cameras

Microsoft is set to extend the Windows Studio Effects functionality, which was previously available only for integrated laptop cameras, to a wider array of camera hardware. This enhancement will allow users to maintain a professional appearance using alternative cameras such as USB webcams or their device’s built-in rear cameras.

To leverage this feature, users should go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras and select their desired camera from the connected list. From there, open the advanced camera options menu and toggle on the “Use Windows Studio Effects” feature. Once enabled, users can easily modify Studio Effects via the camera settings or the quick settings menu in the taskbar.

Windows Studio Effects settings on Copilot PC

Note: The necessary driver update for Windows Studio Effects will initially roll out to Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs, with updates for AMD and Snapdragon-powered devices following shortly.

Additional Features and Improvements

Alongside the major updates, here are some gradual changes that will be implemented:

Updates to Agent in Settings

The new agent in Settings experience is beginning to roll out to Insiders who have set their primary display language to French.

Enhancements to File Explorer

File Explorer Home will now feature on-hover actions, simplifying file management. Users will see commands like “Open file location” and “Ask Copilot about this file” when hovering over files. This integration currently requires a Microsoft account for use, with work or school account support coming in future updates. Note that this feature is not yet available to Windows Insiders in the European Economic Area (EEA).

Copilot button in File Explorer in Windows 11

Settings Adjustments

After updating to this build, Advanced Settings will revert to the previous “For Developers” experience, with plans for its eventual reintroduction.

Bug Fixes

Microsoft has also addressed several critical fixes:

General Performance Improvements

Resolved a lag issue affecting certain devices, reducing delays in interactions across File Explorer, taskbar, and web browsing.

Taskbar & System Tray Updates

Fixed an alignment issue with app preview windows in the taskbar after changes in display resolution.

File Explorer Fixes

Addressed a bug that caused context menus to oscillate between views when right-clicking on files.

Storage Settings Remedies

Fixed an issue where Temporary files in Settings would get stuck during scanning.

Other Minor Fixes

Resolved an Event Viewer error related to the “Microsoft Pluton Cryptographic Provider.”

Known Issues

Despite these updates, some known bugs persist:

General Issues

NEW: We’ve identified a bug causing some PCs to bugcheck (green screen) during hibernation. Users affected by this issue are advised to avoid using hibernation until it is resolved.

File Explorer Issues

Some users may see a Shared section in File Explorer Home even when no content is available.

Developer-specific Issues

NEW: Currently, PIX on Windows does not support GPU captures in this OS version. A fix is expected with a new PIX release by the end of September.

Audio Issues

NEW: Insiders in both the Dev and Beta Channels may face audio problems, with Device Manager possibly showing devices with a yellow exclamation mark. Follow troubleshooting steps to potentially resolve these driver issues.

Xbox Controller Concerns

Some Insiders are encountering bugs with Xbox Controllers through Bluetooth. Uninstalling and reinstalling the respective drivers via Device Manager can remediate this issue.

For detailed information about the builds, you can check the official announcement for the Dev build here and the Beta build here.

For more updates and insights, visit our source here.