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Windows 11 Build 27938 Adds AI Image Editing in File Explorer

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27938 introduces AI actions in File Explorer, enabling seamless image editing and document summarization without opening files. This update also brings back the bigger clock with seconds, enhanced privacy controls, and multiple bug fixes boosting productivity and system stability.

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27938: AI-Powered File Explorer Takes Center Stage

The latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27938, released on the Canary Channel, is packed with exciting AI-driven features. Microsoft is pushing boundaries by integrating AI actions directly into File Explorer. This means tech pros can now right-click files and instantly perform tasks like editing images or summarizing documents. No need to open multiple apps—your workflow stays uninterrupted while AI handles the heavy lifting.
“AI actions in File Explorer allow you to stay in your flow while leveraging powerful editing tools,” the Windows team explained.
Among the standout AI tools are Bing Visual Search, Blur Background, Erase Objects, and Remove Background. These tools support popular image formats like .jpg and .png, making image editing and web searches faster and more intuitive. For example, Bing Visual Search helps identify landmarks or shop styles directly from your images. Meanwhile, Blur Background and Erase Objects streamline photo editing with minimal clicks.

Enhanced User Control and Customization

Beyond AI, this build restores a much-requested feature: a bigger clock with seconds in the notification center. Users can now toggle this feature on via Settings > Time & language > Date & time. This small but impactful update improves time tracking precision for busy professionals. Additionally, the Privacy & security settings now reveal which third-party apps use Windows’ generative AI models. This transparency empowers users to manage app permissions effectively, enhancing data privacy and control over AI interactions on their devices.

Stability Fixes and Known Issues to Note

This build also addresses multiple stability and performance issues. Fixes include resolving thumbnail display problems in File Explorer’s dark mode, improving Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) performance, and fixing Task Manager freezes. However, some Insiders may face rollback errors during installation or experience audio device driver issues. Microsoft is actively working on these, with workarounds available for affected users.
“These Canary builds represent early-stage platform changes and may never reach final releases,” Microsoft reminds Windows Insiders.
In summary, Build 27938 offers a glimpse of Windows 11’s AI-enhanced future. The new AI actions in File Explorer alone promise to boost productivity by simplifying everyday tasks. For tech professionals eager to experiment with cutting-edge features, this update is a must-try. Just remember, Canary Channel builds are experimental, so back up your work and expect some rough edges. Stay tuned for more updates as Microsoft refines these innovations for broader Windows 11 adoption.

Key points from the article:

  • AI actions in File Explorer allow quick image edits and document summaries via right-click, streamlining workflows
  • New image tools include Bing Visual Search, background blur, object erasing, and background removal for .jpg, .jpeg, and .png files
  • Privacy dashboard reveals third-party apps using local generative AI models, enhancing user control over AI integrations
  • Reintroduction of the bigger clock with seconds in Notification Center improves time management visibility
  • Numerous performance fixes address File Explorer thumbnails, Task Manager freezes, and critical system bugchecks
  • From the Windows Blog