Windows 11 Dev and Beta Builds 26200.5641 and 26120.4250 Introduce Redesigned Start Menu

Explore the Latest Features in Windows 11 Preview Builds 26200.5641 and 26120.4250

Microsoft is currently unveiling two exciting preview builds of Windows 11: Build 26200.5641 for the Dev Channel and Build 26120.4250 for the Beta Channel. Both versions deliver a wealth of enhancements and the same captivating new features.

Key Improvements

An innovative redesign of the Start menu.
Enhanced Lock Screen widget controls for personalization.
A revolutionary Narrator feature with a privacy-focused Screen Curtain.
A gamepad-friendly touch keyboard layout optimized for ease of use.
Numerous system fixes for a smoother experience.

Feature Highlights in Windows 11 Build 26200.5641 and 26120.4250

Revamped Start Menu

The newly redesigned Start menu integrates the “All apps” section directly with “Pinned” and “Recommended” areas into a cohesive, scrollable interface. This means users will enjoy a seamless experience when accessing their favorite applications.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DufWtkYcLo

Windows 11: NEW Start Menu Design with More Customization Options Coming in 2025 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DufWtkYcLo)

Start menu new design — New Start Menu Design / Image: Mauro Huculak

This new menu design effectively maximizes screen space, dynamically adjusting based on your device’s display. Apps can be grouped automatically by categories or displayed alphabetically, allowing for quicker access.

How to Enable the New Start Menu

If the updated Start menu does not appear after installation, you can manually enable it using the ViveTool. Execute the following command:

vivetool /enable /id:47205210, 49221331, 49381526, 49402389, 49820095, 55495322, 48433719

Lock Screen Widgets Enhancements

Users can now fully customize their Lock Screen widgets, allowing for tailored experiences that prioritize user preferences. The “Your Widgets” feature allows for seamless selection and customization of applicable widgets.

Lock Screen Your Widgets setting — Customize your Lock Screen Widgets / Image: Mauro Huculak

Screen Curtain for Narrator

This release also boasts a privacy-enhancing Screen Curtain feature. When you turn on Narrator, you can activate the Screen Curtain to black out your display, keeping sensitive information secure from prying eyes. Toggle it quickly using the keyboard shortcut Caps + Ctrl + C.

Narrator new features discovery — Narrator’s New Features / Image: Microsoft

Gamepad-Compatible Touch Keyboard

The updated layout of the touch keyboard is designed with gaming in mind. This brings a more intuitive interaction for users who prefer gamepad navigation, enhancing usability for PIN sign-ins while incorporating smarter handling of various input options.

PIN Sign in Gamepad — Gamepad-Friendly Touch Keyboard / Image: Microsoft

Search Settings Revamp

The Settings app now offers a streamlined “Search”page that amalgamates the previous “Search permissions” and “Searching Windows” settings into one user-friendly interface, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality.

Search new settings page — Revamped Search Settings Page / Image: Microsoft

Region Information in Settings

The “Language & region” settings page now clearly reflects the “Device setup region” that you selected during installation, making it easier to manage regional settings over time.

Device Setup Region Information — Device Setup Region Details / Image: Mauro Huculak

Additional Fixes and Improvements

Alongside these core features, Windows 11 Build 26200.5641 and Build 26120.4250 include several critical fixes:

Taskbar Icon Scaling: Fixed alignment issues for an aesthetically pleasing experience.
System Performance: Reduced instances of crashes in recent builds.
File Explorer Search: Enhancements ensure correct display of search results.
Windows Terminal Functionality: Resolved previous freezing issues while switching windows with ALT + Tab.
Lock Screen Stability: Improved reliability, eliminating crashing problems.
Graphics Enhancements: Resolved notable green tint problems.
Display Color Accuracy: Fixed discolored outputs on Dolby Vision displays.

Known Issues

Despite the improvements, there are still some known issues including:

Touch navigation problems within the Start menu.
Instances of duplicated folders reported.
Occasional bugs involving Xbox Controller functionality.

How to Install the Preview Builds

To get your hands on these amazing builds, ensure your device is enrolled in the Windows Insider Program via the “Update & Security” section. Once enrolled, simply navigate to “Windows Update” settings, enable the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option, and click “Check for Updates” to download the build.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What distinguishes the Dev Channel from the Beta Channel in Windows 11 previews?

The Dev Channel offers early access to unrefined features and updates, whereas the Beta Channel serves as a more stable environment where features have been further tested before release.

2. How can I revert to a previous version if I encounter issues with the new builds?

If the new builds cause significant problems, you can revert to a prior version by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, where you can select to restore your PC to its earlier state.

3. Are the new features in the preview builds available for all users?

New features in these preview builds are primarily available to users enrolled in the Windows Insider Program. Once finalized, they may be rolled out to the broader public in future stable releases.

Source & Images