Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.5790 (KB5039719) to members of the Windows Insider Program in the Dev Channel. This update comes from the GE_RELEASE development branch and is considered a servicing release. Its role is not to introduce new features but rather to test the servicing pipeline and provide an important fix for a specific issue that has been causing trouble for some users.
Key Takeaways
- Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.5790 is now live in the Dev Channel.
- This update focuses on servicing, stability, and targeted fixes.
- It resolves a boot issue affecting certain ARM64 PCs.
- Known problems remain, including Copilot, Settings, and Start menu glitches.
The main highlight of this update is the fix for an issue where some ARM64 devices would get stuck during boot. This problem left affected PCs unresponsive at startup, and the new build should address it for users running on ARM-based processors. Servicing updates like this one are designed to keep Windows stable between major feature releases.
The Windows Insider Program allows developers, IT professionals, and enthusiasts to test early versions of the operating system. The program is divided into channels: Canary, Dev, Beta, and Release Preview. The Dev Channel, where this build has been released, gives users the earliest access to new builds but also comes with higher risk of instability. For that reason, Microsoft advises against installing Dev builds on primary devices.
Known Problems in This Build
Although this release fixes the ARM64 boot issue, Microsoft has flagged several ongoing problems that Insiders should be aware of. One of the most notable issues involves Copilot. The assistant currently launches but then disappears, preventing users from making use of it.
Other issues include:
- The Settings app may not respond properly when navigating to certain sections, such as System > Storage.
- Searching for specific strings in Settings could cause the app to freeze.
- Some users have reported that “Pin to Taskbar” and “Unpin from Taskbar” options in the Start menu do not work as expected.
- The Widgets board may show alignment and spacing problems in its navigation bar.
Microsoft is encouraging Insiders to report any issues they encounter through the Feedback Hub. The reports collected help engineers investigate bugs and improve the system before updates move closer to a public release.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the Windows Insider Program?
A: The Windows Insider Program is a free program from Microsoft that lets users test pre-release versions of Windows. By participating, you can see new features and provide feedback to help shape the final product.
Q2: What is the Dev Channel?
A: The Dev Channel is a part of the Windows Insider Program that provides early access to Windows builds. These builds are fresh from the development cycle and may contain bugs. It is best for highly technical users.
Q3: How do I install Windows 11 Build 26220.5790?
A: If you are already enrolled in the Dev Channel of the Windows Insider Program, you can go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. The build should download and install automatically.
Q4: Should I install this build on my main computer?
A: It is generally not advised to install Dev Channel builds on your primary or daily-use computer. These builds can have stability issues that might disrupt your work. It is better to use a secondary PC or a virtual machine for testing.
Q5: What is an ARM64 PC?
A: An ARM64 PC is a computer that uses a processor based on ARM architecture, which is different from the x86 architecture used in most traditional desktops and laptops. ARM processors are often found in smartphones and tablets and are known for their power efficiency.
