Windows 11 Beta build 26220.9836 adds new features

Microsoft released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.9836 to the Beta Channel on October 30, 2026. The update is based on Windows 11 version 25H2 and delivered through an enablement package. It adds per-app privacy controls for desktop apps, a Magnifier shortcut toggle, wider Narrator math support, and several fixes.

Per-app camera, microphone, and location controls

Windows Insiders can now manage camera, microphone, and location permissions for individual desktop apps. Previously, traditional desktop applications relied on a single device-wide setting. You can now allow or deny access for each app under Settings > Privacy & Security in the Camera, Microphone, or Location pages. Apps that have not yet accessed a resource will prompt for permission the first time they request it. 

Existing decisions carry over, so apps already granted access keep it, and apps already denied stay denied. Microsoft notes that some apps relying on shared system components or browser-hosted experiences might appear under a different name than expected, and some may be labeled "unsigned" when Windows cannot verify publisher information. Microsoft advises granting access only to apps you recognize and trust.

Sign-in, File Explorer, and personalization

The security key PIN entry screen no longer shows the “other user” icon, which Microsoft says makes sign-in clearer. In File Explorer, thumbnails in the Recommended section on the Home page have been sharpened. Microsoft also says recent builds should now resolve issues some Insiders had with mouse personalization and wallpapers resetting after a reboot.

Accessibility updates

The narrator now supports math reading in Greek, Hungarian, Indonesian, Norwegian (Bokmål), Polish, Russian, Swedish, and Vietnamese. Magnifier gets a new toggle under Settings > Accessibility > Magnifier that controls whether pressing the Windows logo key and (+) launches it. The shortcut stays on by default, so nothing changes unless you turn it off, which helps if Magnifier starts by accident or the shortcut clashes with another app or keyboard layout. You can still start Magnifier from Settings.

Donut spinners rolled back

Microsoft is temporarily rolling back the solid donut spinners across some key Windows scenarios, including Boot, Logon, Restart, Shutdown, and Update, while it works on a bug. The company expects to resume the rollout soon. As with all Insider builds, features might change or never ship beyond testers.