On October 30, 2026, Microsoft released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.9836 to the Beta channel. The new version is based on Windows 11 25H2 and delivered via enablement packages. The main change allows test users to manage camera, microphone, and location permissions for traditional desktop apps individually.
Each app can control camera, microphone, and location information
Windows Insiders can now manage camera, microphone, and location permissions for individual desktop applications. Previously, traditional desktop applications relied on a single device-level setting. Now, you can allow or deny access for each app on the "Camera," "Microphone," or "Location" pages under "Settings" > "Privacy & security." Apps requesting access for the first time will prompt you to grant permission if they haven't accessed the resource before.
Existing settings are preserved, so apps that have been granted access will continue to have access, and those denied will remain denied. Microsoft notes that some apps relying on shared system components or browser-hosted experiences may display names different from expected, and some apps may be labeled as "Unsigned" when Windows cannot verify publisher information. Microsoft recommends granting access only to apps you recognize and trust.
Login, File Explorer, and Personalization Settings
The security key PIN entry screen no longer displays the "Other user" icon; Microsoft states this makes the login process clearer. In File Explorer, thumbnail clarity in the "Recommended" section of Home has been improved. Microsoft also stated that the latest version should resolve issues some Insiders encountered with mouse personalization settings and wallpaper resetting after a reboot.
Accessibility Updates
Narrator now supports reading math aloud in Greek, Hungarian, Indonesian, Norwegian (Bokmål), Polish, Russian, Swedish, and Vietnamese. Magnifier has added a toggle in "Settings" > "Accessibility" > "Magnifier" to control whether pressing the Windows logo key and (+) launches Magnifier. This shortcut is enabled by default, so nothing changes unless you turn it off. This helps prevent accidental launch of Magnifier or conflicts with other applications or keyboard layouts. You can still launch Magnifier from Settings.