It’s a rare thing! Microsoft has released the same build to Windows 11 insiders in dev and beta channels. The build number is 22581. By doing that, the company has opened a “limited window” to switch between channels. Next week, Micorsoft may release a higher build to Dev and this window could close, so it’s high time for you now to switch to beta from Dev as it was not possible with previous builds if you’re inclined.
What’s new in Windows 11 build 22581
With build 22581, Windows 11 beta users can now try out the new features that till now were available only in the dev channel.
If you’re a beta user, you can test a tablet-optimized taskbar, New Task Manager, Start Folders, and Live Captions.
Do note, the Tablet-Optimized taskbar works on devices that have a touch screen, but not on desktop or laptop. The build also comes with a slew of fixes and known issues.
Windows 11 insider Program
If you’re new, Microsoft release insider Preview builds for Windows 11 through three channels: Developer, Beta, and Release Preview.
The Developer channel brings new features. The builds are highly unstable and likely to break things and may require some workarounds. Dev builds are not tied to a specific release. The builds contain the latest work-in Progress code from Microsoft.
Beta and release preview builds are fairly stable builds that you can join.
Sometimes, as it happened with the latest insider build released on March 23, 20222, it could be possible to switch your Windows 11 device from the dev channel to another channel. For this, you first need to check your current build number and compare it with the build number in the channel you want to switch.
To check the build number, you can look at the watermark on the desktop or run the winver command. Then check the fight hub page to know the latest Windows preview build.
How to switch from Dev to Beta channel in Windows 11
- Click on Start
- Select Settings
- Click on Windows Update
- Select Windows Insider Program
- Expand insider settings and select Beta channel. That’s it.
Note: You must be sending diagnostic data to Microsoft to receive new Windows 11 insider builds. Ensure, send optional diagnostic data setting is enabled under Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback for the same.
Condition:
Windows 11 dev and beta insider versions must be using the same build number.
It’s unfortunate that File Explorer Tabs and Open with Dialog can no longer be enabled in this build.
What’s your take on this Windows 11 insider build released to both dev and beta? Are you jumping to the beta channel? Let us know in the comments below.
More on Windows 11:
How to disable ‘Search Highlights’ on Windows 11 & Windows 10
How to make Windows 11’s Win+X menu to work without crashing Explorer
How to get rid of the ‘System requirements not met’ watermark on Windows 11 Unsupported PCs
Windows 11 tests Windowed Alt+Tab experience, how to enable
Windows 11/10 allows to Pin any window always on Top w/ PowerToys
