Microsoft is testing Windows 11 26H1 with the Insider Preview Build 28000, which brings many of the useful features we’ve seen in the Dev, Beta, and stable versions of previous builds. Even though the version contains some additions, it’s not one of the usual Windows feature updates (via PCWorld).
For instance, there’s a more consistent dark mode for the File Explorer. All the dialogues in the interface, including those for copy, move, replace, errors, and progress bar, now completely match the theme.
Minor feature tweaks, major groundwork for Windows on Arm
The Explorer start area gets new hover options, including “Open File Location” or “Ask Copilot,” depending on the region the user is in. There’s a redesigned Settings search experience that offers better recommendations when searching within the Windows settings.
Windows 11 26H1 makes it easier to drag and share files within File Explorer (and across other apps), features a refreshed Mobile Devices settings page in the Settings app for managing connected smartphones, and an enhanced Xbox Full-Screen Experience that offers a more console-like immersive experience.
Finally, Windows Studio Effects now supports external USB webcams; you can activate the feature in the Settings section.
While these are minor changes, the primary purpose of Windows 11 26H1 is to prepare the operating system for a new generation of Windows-on-Arm devices powered by the Snapdragon X2 and X2 Elite chipsets (initially exclusive to these chips). It’s based on a new Windows platform codenamed “Bromine.”
The first PCs with Windows 11 26H1 will be available in spring (a few months from now). However, other PCs based on Intel or AMD chips will stick with Windows 11 25H2 for now and might get the next major consumer update in fall 2026. Going forward, Microsoft will conduct all the feature development on 25H2.