Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1673 to the Canary Channel, introducing a convenient one-click network speed test directly from the system tray and adding native support for PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera controls within the native Windows Camera app. This latest build, part of the development branch that often tests features far in advance of general release, continues Microsoft's push to integrate more system utilities and hardware controls directly into the Windows 11 interface, reducing reliance on third-party applications for common tasks.

A New One-Click Network Speed Test in the Taskbar

The headline feature of this build is the integration of a network speed test tool into the system tray's network flyout. When users click on the network or Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar, they will now see a new \"Speed test\" option alongside the familiar list of available networks. Clicking this option initiates an immediate test that measures download and upload speeds, as well as latency (ping), without needing to open a browser or a separate application like Ookla's Speedtest.

According to Microsoft's official announcement, this feature leverages a partnership with a third-party service to conduct the test. The results are displayed directly within the flyout, providing a quick snapshot of connection performance. This is designed for users who want to quickly verify their internet speed—perhaps after connecting to a new Wi-Fi network or when experiencing perceived slowness—without the friction of a separate app. It's a clear move towards making Windows more self-diagnostic and user-friendly for everyday troubleshooting.

Native PTZ Camera Controls in the Windows Camera App

The second significant addition is built-in support for controlling PTZ cameras from the native Windows Camera app. PTZ cameras, commonly used in professional streaming, video conferencing, and security setups, allow for remote directional and zoom control. Previously, managing these cameras on Windows typically required proprietary software from the manufacturer. With this update, the standard Windows Camera app gains a new control panel when a compatible PTZ camera is connected.

This panel provides on-screen buttons or controls for panning (moving left/right), tilting (moving up/down), and zooming in and out. This integration standardizes the interface for a wide range of hardware, potentially simplifying setups for content creators, remote workers, and educators who use such cameras. It represents Microsoft's ongoing effort to enhance Windows' built-in apps with professional-grade features, blurring the line between consumer and prosumer tools.

Under-the-Hood Improvements and Fixes

Beyond the two marquee features, Build 28020.1673 includes several other updates and fixes, as detailed in the official blog post:

  • Remote Server Administration Tools (RSAT) for ARM64: The build now includes RSAT as an optional feature that can be installed directly from Settings > System > Optional features on ARM64 devices. This is a crucial addition for IT administrators using ARM-based Windows devices, like those powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series processors, as it allows them to manage servers and roles directly from their machine.
  • General Reliability Improvements: As with most Canary builds, this release includes general stability and performance fixes to improve the overall experience for Insiders testing this early code.
  • Known Issues: Microsoft notes several known issues, including one where the Widgets board may not open correctly for some users after updating. This is standard for Canary builds, which are inherently less stable and used for testing cutting-edge, and sometimes experimental, code.

The Strategic Direction: Integration and Convenience

The introduction of a built-in speed test and PTZ controls is not merely about adding new features; it signals a strategic direction for Windows 11. Microsoft is increasingly focused on integration and user convenience, aiming to make the operating system a more complete, self-contained environment. The speed test tool reduces dependency on web-based services for a common diagnostic task, while the PTZ controls reduce reliance on third-party driver software for specific hardware. This follows the pattern of other integrated features like the Snipping Tool, Clipchamp video editor, and modernized Paint and Photos apps.

For the average user, these changes mean fewer apps to install and a more consistent experience. For Microsoft, it strengthens the value proposition of Windows itself and keeps users within its ecosystem. The addition of RSAT for ARM64 is particularly noteworthy, as it demonstrates a commitment to making Windows on ARM a fully viable platform for all user segments, including enterprise and IT professionals, not just consumers seeking long battery life.

What This Means for Windows Insiders and the Future

Build 28020.1673 is available only to Insiders enrolled in the Canary Channel. This channel receives builds from the active development branch with the very latest code, which may not ever ship publicly. Features tested here, like the one-click speed test, could evolve, be removed, or eventually make their way to the Dev, Beta, and finally the stable release channels over the coming months.

Testing in the Canary Channel is essential for Microsoft to gather feedback on highly experimental features. Users who encounter bugs or have suggestions on the implementation of the speed test or PTZ controls are encouraged to report them via the Feedback Hub app. This collaborative process helps shape the final version of features that may one day reach all Windows 11 users.

The continued refinement of built-in apps and system utilities suggests that future Windows 11 updates will likely bring more such integrations. Potential areas could include more advanced network diagnostics, expanded hardware support for other peripherals, or deeper accessibility controls. As Windows 11 matures, this focus on a polished, capable, and integrated out-of-the-box experience is becoming one of its defining characteristics.