Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 receive enhanced dark mode features in latest builds

Microsoft Unveils New Windows 11 Preview Builds for Insiders

In a continued effort to improve user experience, Microsoft has rolled out its latest Windows 11 preview builds targeting both the Dev and Beta Channels. The builds include Windows 11 version 25H2 (Dev, build 26220.6972) and Windows 11 version 24H2 (Beta, build 26120.6972).These updates enhance dark mode features, introduce modifications to the Settings app, and rectify numerous bugs in File Explorer and other key components.

Noteworthy Enhancements

Here’s a summary of the significant changes introduced in this build:

Mobile Device Management

The Settings app now features a dedicated “Mobile Devices” section under Bluetooth & Devices, allowing users to seamlessly add and manage their mobile devices. This new interface enables functionalities like using mobile devices as connected cameras and accessing files via File Explorer.

Account Access Improvements

A new shortcut in the account section of the Start menu provides direct access to the benefits page at account.microsoft.com, simplifying management of your Microsoft account benefits.

Game Pass Updates

References related to Game Pass plans have been updated in the Settings app to align with the latest branding and benefits information.

File Explorer Enhancements

The update continues to refine the dark mode experience within File Explorer, notably ensuring consistent dark mode settings in the Folder Options dialog.

Drag Tray Functionality

You can now toggle the Drag Tray feature on or off from the Settings > System > Nearby Sharing menu.

Resolutions to Previous Issues

The latest builds also address several critical bugs:

File Explorer Fixes

Resolved an issue that previously triggered a Catastrophic Error (0x8000FFFF) when extracting large archive files (1.5GB and above).
Addressed a bug that occasionally caused an outdated white toolbar to appear in File Explorer.

Display and Graphics Improvements

Fixed a problem causing certain videos and games to appear with unnatural red hues.
Resolved an issue where certain applications could exhibit partially stuck screen content during background updates.
Performance enhancements have been made to minimize stuttering when apps query monitor compatibility for high-resolution displays.

Windows Update Fixes

Corrected an issue that resulted in failed installations of updates, specifically error 0x800f0983.

Other Resolved Issues

Resolved hangs affecting Outlook when asked for credentials.
Fixed remote scenarios between Windows 11 builds and older Windows Server versions.
Addressed the issue where the print preview in Chromium-based browsers would occasionally stop responding.

Known Bugs

Despite significant progress, some issues persist:

General Issues

[NEW] Text actions employing Phi Silica in Click to Do and Recall are malfunctioning in this build, with a solution underway.

Taskbar & System Tray

New animations for taskbar previews have been temporarily disabled due to conflicts with window sharing functionality.
[NEW] Investigating an issue that prevents the Start menu from opening with a click, although it can still be accessed using the Windows key. This may also affect the notification center.

File Explorer

In dark mode, the copy progress dialog may flash upon interaction.
Scrollbar and footer elements may appear as white blocks in the dark mode version of the copy dialog when text is scaled.

Gaming Related Issues

Several Insiders report issues with Xbox Controllers via Bluetooth leading to system bug checks. Users are advised to uninstall the driver “oemXXX.inf (XboxGameControllerDriver.inf)”via Device Manager to resolve this.

For a comprehensive overview of the announcements, refer to the blog posts for the Dev build and Beta build.

Source & Images