Windows 11 26H1 Insider Preview Build 28000 Released by Microsoft
Microsoft has recently rolled out Windows 11 26H1 with the Insider Preview Build 28000. This latest update brings a host of new features and improvements that have been seen in previous builds of Windows 11. While this update does not fall under the category of regular Windows feature updates, it does bring some noteworthy additions to the table (via PCWorld).
One of the standout features of this update is the enhanced dark mode for File Explorer. Now, all dialogues within the interface, such as copy, move, replace, errors, and progress bars, seamlessly align with the dark theme for a more consistent user experience.
Enhancements and Tweaks in Windows 11 26H1
Windows 11 26H1 introduces new hover options in the Explorer start area, such as “Open File Location” or “Ask Copilot,” based on the user’s region. The Settings search experience has been revamped to provide better recommendations when searching within Windows settings.
Users can now easily drag and share files within File Explorer and other apps, navigate the refreshed Mobile Devices settings page in the Settings app for managing connected smartphones, and enjoy an enhanced Xbox Full-Screen Experience for a more immersive gaming experience.
While these updates may seem minor, Windows 11 26H1 is laying the groundwork for a new era of Windows-on-Arm devices that will be powered by Snapdragon X2 and X2 Elite chipsets. This update is based on a new Windows platform codenamed “Bromine.”
The first wave of PCs running Windows 11 26H1 is expected to hit the market in the spring. PCs equipped with Intel or AMD chips will continue to run Windows 11 25H2 for now and may receive the next major consumer update in the fall of 2026. Moving forward, Microsoft will focus all feature development on Windows 11 25H2.
