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Windows 11 Build 26120 Adds Taskbar Network Speed Test

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.6760 introduces a native network speed test from the taskbar, enhanced Microsoft 365 Copilot integration, and improved voice access customization—boosting productivity and troubleshooting for tech professionals on the Beta Channel.

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.6760: What’s New?

Microsoft just released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.6760 to the Beta Channel. This update focuses on enhancing network diagnostics, productivity, and user accessibility. One standout feature is the built-in network speed test accessible directly from the taskbar. Users can now quickly check Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Cellular speeds without third-party tools. This helps IT pros and developers troubleshoot connectivity issues faster and more efficiently. Additionally, Microsoft 365 Copilot gets a dedicated page in the Get Started app, making it easier for managed commercial device users to discover AI-powered productivity tools.
“This represents a significant leap forward,” said a Microsoft spokesperson, highlighting the update’s impact on workflow efficiency.
Beyond new features, Windows Search improvements are rolling out for Copilot+ PCs. The File Explorer search box now encourages natural language queries, enhancing file discovery. Developers also benefit from new StorageProvider APIs that facilitate cloud integration within File Explorer Home. However, Emoji 16.0 has been temporarily disabled, with plans to bring it back in future releases.

Practical Benefits for Tech Professionals

This build is packed with fixes that improve system stability and user experience. For example, screen readers now function reliably after recent updates, improving accessibility. Taskbar icons and battery status display issues have been resolved, ensuring more accurate system feedback. File Explorer customizations now persist across navigation paths, saving time for power users managing large file libraries. Furthermore, voice access gains a “Wait time before acting” setting, allowing users to tailor voice command responsiveness to their speech patterns. This flexibility helps professionals who rely on voice control for hands-free operation. Networking improvements fix SMB v1 connection issues, which is critical for enterprises still supporting legacy protocols. Video playback glitches affecting Blu-ray and digital TV apps are also addressed. Developers using PIX for GPU capture playback will find smoother compatibility with the latest OS version.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect

While many features are gradually rolling out, some known issues remain. For instance, taskbar preview animations are temporarily disabled to improve window sharing. Xbox controller users may encounter Bluetooth-related crashes, but a straightforward Device Manager fix is available. Microsoft encourages Insiders to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub to help refine these updates.
“Features may change over time or be removed entirely based on user input,” the Windows Insider team reminds users.
In conclusion, Build 26120.6760 enhances Windows 11’s network tools, productivity features, and accessibility. Tech professionals stand to gain from faster troubleshooting, better voice controls, and improved file management. Keeping your Beta Channel toggle on ensures you receive these cutting-edge updates as they arrive. Stay engaged with the Insider community to shape Windows’ future and harness these tools to boost your workflow today.

Key points from the article:

  • Built-in network speed test accessible via taskbar for real-time connectivity diagnostics
  • Seamless Microsoft 365 Copilot onboarding through the updated Get Started experience
  • Voice Access ‘Wait time before acting’ setting for adaptable speech recognition
  • New StorageProvider APIs enable cloud integration directly within File Explorer Home
  • Multiple bug fixes improve system stability, search accuracy, and media playback
  • From the Windows Blog