Windows 11 Gets a Refresh: Build 26100.4484 (KB5060829) Rolls Out with New Features and Fixes

Microsoft has released a significant preview update for Windows 11, version 24H2, designated as Build 26100.4484 (KB5060829). This optional, non-security update, released in late June 2025, provides a glimpse into the enhancements and bug fixes slated for broader release in the following month's Patch Tuesday. Key improvements include a more dynamic taskbar, a new PC-to-PC migration experience, and enhanced accessibility features.

This preview update allows Windows administrators and enthusiasts to test the upcoming changes, which will become a mandatory update in July 2025. Users can manually install KB5060829 through the Windows Update settings by checking for updates and selecting "Download and install."

Major Enhancements and New Functionalities

This latest build introduces a variety of new features aimed at improving the user experience and system functionality.

A More Flexible Taskbar: Addressing user feedback about taskbar space, this update introduces a new feature that automatically resizes app icons when the taskbar becomes crowded. Users can now fit more applications on their taskbar, with the ability to customize this behavior in the Taskbar settings. Options include always using smaller icons, never using them, or only shrinking them when the taskbar is full. The indicator for apps requiring attention has also been made wider and more visible.

Seamless PC-to-PC Migration: A noteworthy addition is the introduction of a PC-to-PC migration experience within Windows Backup. This feature is designed to simplify the process of transferring files and settings from an old computer to a new one during the setup process. While the full support for this feature during the initial PC setup will be rolled out in a future update, this build provides a preview of the new start page and pairing page in Windows Backup.

Enhanced Accessibility: Microsoft continues its commitment to accessibility with the introduction of a "Screen Curtain" feature in Narrator. When activated, the screen is blacked out while Narrator continues to read content aloud, ensuring privacy for users handling sensitive information in public spaces. This can be toggled using the keyboard shortcut Caps Lock + Ctrl + C while Narrator is active. Additionally, Quick Actions now include text descriptions for assistive technologies like Narrator and Voice Access to improve their discoverability.

App Default Settings in the EEA: For users in the European Economic Area (EEA), this update brings changes to the way default browsers are set. When a new default browser is chosen, it will now automatically be set for additional file and link types it registers. The new default browser will also be pinned to the Taskbar and Start menu by default, with an option for the user to opt-out.

Key Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements

Beyond the new features, KB5060829 addresses a number of bugs and performance issues to enhance system stability.

System Performance and Stability: The update resolves an issue that could cause Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) to become unresponsive during complex workflows. It also fixes a problem where unused language packs and Feature on Demand packages were not being fully removed, which consumed unnecessary storage and increased Windows Update installation times.

Improved Search and Responsiveness: A significant fix addresses the slow performance of Windows Search, where it could take over 10 seconds to load. This update also improves the reliability of the Copilot key and resolves an issue that prevented users from restarting Copilot after using the key.

Gaming and Application Fixes: For gamers, an issue where other windows, such as Windows Terminal, would stop responding after using ALT + Tab to switch out of a full-screen game has been fixed. The update also addresses a problem that could cause Explorer.exe to crash when dragging a window with window snapping enabled. Furthermore, an issue preventing the automatic renewal of expiring certificates in Windows Hello for Business has been resolved.

This preview build offers a comprehensive look at the direction of Windows 11, with a clear focus on user-centric enhancements, improved accessibility, and overall system stability.