Windows 11 Insider Preview 10.0.26120.3073: New Features, Issues & Installation Guide

Windows 11 Insider Preview builds provide a sneak peek into Microsoft’s upcoming features, enhancements, and fixes for the operating system. The latest release, Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 10.0.26120.3073 (KB5050090), was rolled out on January 31, 2025, to both the Dev and Beta Channels. This build introduces new cloud-integrated search features, optional Dev Channel updates for Beta users, and several refinements aimed at improving user experience.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at the new features, improvements, known issues, and user feedback surrounding Build 26120.3073.

New Features in Windows 11 Insider Preview 10.0.26120.3073

1. Enhanced Windows Search with Cloud Integration

One of the standout features of this build is the improvement to Windows Search through enhanced cloud integration. This update allows users to locate photos stored in their cloud drives using natural language descriptions. Instead of relying on exact filenames, users can search for images by describing their contents.

For example, typing phrases like “summer vacation in Paris” or “birthday party with balloons” in File Explorer’s search box will bring up relevant images from the user’s OneDrive or other cloud storage services. This feature is currently available for Windows Insiders using Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with plans to extend it to AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs in future updates.

2. Optional Dev Channel Updates for Beta Insiders

Microsoft has introduced a new flexibility feature in this update by offering Dev Channel updates to Beta Channel Insiders. These updates are based on Windows 11 version 24H2 and are entirely optional, allowing Beta users to install them at their discretion. This move ensures that Beta users have access to advanced features while still maintaining stability.

3. Performance and UI Enhancements

Windows 11 Build 26120.3073 comes with multiple performance optimizations and UI refinements. Microsoft has focused on the following:

• Improved Start Menu Responsiveness: Users will experience faster Start Menu interactions with reduced lag.
• Refined Taskbar Animations: Smooth transitions when opening or switching between apps.
• Optimized Memory Usage: Background processes have been optimized to improve system performance, especially on lower-end devices.
• Bug Fixes in Widgets Panel: Several crashes related to the Windows Widgets panel have been resolved.

Known Issues and User Feedback

No Insider Preview build is without its issues, and Windows 11 Build 26120.3073 is no exception. Some users have reported encountering various issues, including:

1. Login Issues

A few users noted that after installing the update, they experienced login problems. Despite disabling Microsoft account login at startup, the system required it after the update, and some users reported their passwords were not being recognized. Rolling back the update resolved the issue for these users.

2. Installation Failures and Errors

Some users faced difficulties while installing the update, encountering error code “0x80004005.” This is a common error indicating a failure during a critical part of the installation process. While Microsoft has not yet provided an official fix, users have attempted workarounds like:

• Running the Windows Update Troubleshooter
• Resetting Windows Update components
• Performing a clean boot before updating

3. Taskbar and Explorer Glitches

There have been reports of occasional glitches where the taskbar freezes or fails to respond, requiring a restart of the Windows Explorer process. Microsoft is likely to address these issues in upcoming patches.

Steps to Install Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3073

For users who want to install this update, follow these steps:

1. Ensure You’re in the Insider Program: Navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program and verify that you’re enrolled in the Dev or Beta Channel.
2. Check for Updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update and click on Check for updates to see if Build 26120.3073 is available.
3. Download and Install: If the update is available, click Download & Install and allow Windows to complete the installation.
4. Restart Your PC: After installation, restart your PC to apply the changes.
5. Verify Installation: To check if the update was successfully installed, go to Settings > System > About and confirm the build number.

Should You Install This Update?

Whether or not to install Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3073 depends on your use case:

• Yes, if you’re an enthusiast or developer: If you enjoy testing new features and providing feedback, this build offers a lot of new enhancements.
• Yes, if you rely on cloud-based search: The new semantic search feature can be a significant productivity boost.
• No, if you need stability: Given the reported login issues and installation failures, users relying on their PCs for work may want to wait for a more refined version.

Future Expectations from Windows 11 Insider Builds

Microsoft continues to innovate with each Insider Preview build. Based on current trends, we can expect:

• More AI-driven features integrated into Windows Search and Copilot.
• Improved gaming optimizations to enhance performance on high-end and mid-range PCs.
• Better integration with Android and cloud-based services, allowing seamless workflow between devices.

Conclusion

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3073 introduces several exciting features, particularly the advanced cloud-based search and the optional Dev Channel updates for Beta users. However, it also comes with some challenges, including login issues and installation errors. As always, Insider builds are experimental, and users should weigh the benefits and risks before updating.

For more insights, tech updates, and in-depth reviews on Windows Insider builds, visit our blog, Mating Press. We provide the latest news, troubleshooting tips, and hands-on experience with Microsoft’s newest developments.