Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 Brings New Search, Copilot Features, and More to Dev Channel

Windows 11 has just released its latest Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 (KB5054687) for users in the Dev Channel, marking the next step in the evolution of the operating system. With a host of new features and enhancements, including improved search functionality, enhanced Copilot+ support, and updates for accessibility, this build continues to push the boundaries of what Windows 11 can offer. Let’s take a deeper dive into the exciting features and improvements packed into this latest build.

Improved Windows Search for AMD and Intel®-Powered Copilot+ PCs

One of the standout features of this update is the significant improvement to Windows Search, specifically for AMD and Intel®-powered Copilot+ PCs. With the integration of semantic indexing alongside traditional indexing, users can now search for files, images, and settings more intuitively. Instead of remembering file names or specific keywords, users can simply describe what they are looking for in their own words. For instance, if you're trying to locate a document about your European trip, typing “Europe trip budget” will bring up the relevant file—no need to recall the exact document title.

This enhanced search functionality works even when you're offline, thanks to the power of the 40+ TOPS NPU onboard Copilot+ PCs. It’s a major step forward for making Windows search smarter, faster, and more accessible.

Search Enhancements for Cloud-Based Photos

In addition to local file searches, Windows 11 now supports finding photos saved in the cloud. If you've stored images in OneDrive, you can now search for them using natural language, like typing “summer vacation photos” to locate your cloud-stored pictures. This seamless integration brings cloud-based content into the search experience, making it easier than ever to find both local and cloud-based files without having to switch between apps.

However, cloud photo search is currently only available to users who are signed into OneDrive with a personal Microsoft account. If you're signed in with a work or school account, you'll only see keyword matches within the text of your cloud documents, not images.

Speech Recap in Narrator: A Game Changer for Accessibility

In another exciting development, Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 introduces a new feature for Narrator called Speech Recap. This feature is designed to enhance accessibility by allowing users to keep track of everything that Narrator has read aloud. The Speech Recap window stores the last 500 strings of spoken content, which can be accessed with a simple keyboard shortcut (Narrator key + Alt + X).

This feature is particularly helpful for users who rely on Narrator daily, as it allows them to quickly reference previously spoken text, such as error codes, training materials, or even small hints when navigating Windows. The addition of live transcription is another benefit, offering real-time transcriptions of Narrator speech, making it easier for assistive technology trainers and professionals who work with individuals with visual impairments or hearing difficulties to support their students or clients.

Windows 11 Gets More Streamlined: UI Improvements and Taskbar Updates

Along with the new features, this build also includes some behind-the-scenes updates aimed at streamlining the overall user experience. A new, more efficient UI for unexpected restarts has been introduced, which better aligns with Windows 11's design principles. This new interface ensures that users can quickly get back to their work without unnecessary delays or confusing technical details.

In addition, Windows 11 is refining its taskbar functionality, with improvements to icon size when using the PC in tablet mode, ensuring a smoother and more responsive experience when switching between different postures.

Copilot on Windows: New Key Shortcuts and Enhanced Functionality

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 also brings exciting updates to Copilot, Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant. Users can now launch Copilot on Windows using the Win + C keyboard shortcut, making it quicker and easier to interact with the AI while maintaining their workflow. This update allows users to press and hold the Copilot key for two seconds to initiate voice interaction and receive instant responses, without disrupting tasks.

The new “Press to Talk” feature enhances the Copilot experience, allowing users to talk to their PC using just their voice. This hands-free functionality streamlines the user experience, especially for those who prefer voice commands over manual input. It's an exciting development that could change how we interact with PCs in the future.

Click to Do: Intelligent Text Actions and New Features

For users on Copilot+ PCs, Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 also introduces the “Click to Do” feature, which is available in preview. This feature allows users to perform intelligent text actions directly from the Start menu, including creating bulleted lists in supported languages like English, Spanish, and French. The ability to pin Click to Do to the Start menu or taskbar makes it even more accessible.

Microsoft’s ongoing development of Click to Do ensures that text actions are intelligent and contextually aware. These actions, such as creating a bulleted list or scheduling a reminder, are powered by Copilot and will continue to evolve over time, making it a powerful tool for productivity.

Windows 11 Share Window: New Editing Features for Image Sharing

Another significant update in this build focuses on the Windows Share window. Microsoft has added the ability to quickly edit images directly within the Share interface, enabling users to crop, rotate, or apply filters to images before sharing them. This functionality is available for local images stored on your PC, offering a simple way to enhance and customize images without needing to open a separate app.

The new in-line image editing tools are perfect for quick edits before sending photos via email, social media, or other platforms. This enhancement makes the sharing process more seamless and efficient.

Fixes and Known Issues: What You Need to Know

As always, the Insider Preview Build comes with a variety of fixes and known issues that Microsoft is working to address. Improvements have been made to File Explorer’s performance, especially when extracting zipped files, and issues with File Explorer crashing or hanging have been addressed. Other bug fixes include updates to the login screen and adjustments to the taskbar icons in tablet mode.

However, there are still some known issues, such as problems with File Explorer Home crashing for some users and minor bugs with the new task manager column for CPU utility. Microsoft is actively working on fixes for these issues, and users can expect updates in future Insider Preview Builds.

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 Brings Exciting New Features

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5516 offers a host of exciting features and improvements that will enhance both the productivity and accessibility of users. From the smarter, more intuitive Windows Search to the powerful new tools in Copilot and the Narrator, this build continues to push the boundaries of what Windows can do. While there are still a few bugs to work out, the enhancements in this build show a promising future for Windows 11 users.

For those in the Dev Channel, this build offers a glimpse into the next wave of Windows 11 features, and with continued feedback, Microsoft will refine and perfect these tools. If you're part of the Windows Insider program, don't forget to provide your feedback through the Feedback Hub to help improve future updates.