Windows 11 July Preview Update: New File Explorer, Voice Access, and Search Improvements

Microsoft has rolled out new preview updates for Windows 11, targeting both the 24H2 and 25H2 release channels. The builds, identified as 26100.8942 for Windows 11 24H2 and 26200.8942 for Windows 11 25H2, introduce a suite of quality-of-life improvements and feature enhancements. These changes are designed to refine the user experience across File Explorer, voice control, search functionality, and system settings before they reach the broader Windows population.

According to details reported by PCWorld, this preview update focuses on practical refinements rather than major structural overhauls. The changes span several core components of the operating system, addressing user feedback regarding readability, accessibility, and workflow efficiency. Below is a breakdown of the key updates included in this release.

The File Explorer is receiving targeted updates aimed at improving usability and readability. One of the most noticeable changes involves how file sizes are displayed in the Details view. Previously, file sizes were often shown in raw kilobytes, resulting in long strings of thousands or millions of digits. The new preview automatically converts these sizes into megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB), making it significantly easier to gauge storage usage at a glance.

Navigation efficiency is also being enhanced. Users can now open folders in a new tab by using the middle mouse button. This feature, long available in many third-party file managers, reduces the need to navigate back and forth between windows, streamlining workflows for those who manage multiple directories simultaneously.

Close-up of a hand using a precision touchpad on a laptop, with digital scroll and zoom indicators floating nearby, emph — Touchpad settings allow for customizable scroll and zoom speeds in the new preview.

Additionally, the “Recommended” section within File Explorer has seen improvements to the file preview display. While specific technical details on the preview mechanics were not fully disclosed, these adjustments generally aim to provide faster and more accurate previews for supported file types, reducing lag when browsing through documents and media.

#2 Voice Access and Isolation Enhancements

Accessibility remains a priority in this update, with significant improvements to Voice Access. The most notable addition is the introduction of Voice Isolation, a feature designed to filter out background noise from the user’s environment. This ensures that voice commands are processed more accurately, even in noisy settings.

Beyond noise filtering, the update introduces options to identify and suppress other voices. This is particularly useful in shared spaces where background conversations might otherwise trigger unintended commands. By allowing the system to distinguish between the primary user and ambient speech, Microsoft is reducing false positives and improving the reliability of hands-free control.

#3 Windows Search Improvements

Windows Search is getting smarter with this preview release. The update expands the scope of searchable items to include files with two-letter names, which were previously overlooked. This change addresses a common frustration for users who work with abbreviated file naming conventions.

Furthermore, the search algorithm now demonstrates improved tolerance for spelling errors. If a query contains typos or if an app name is not spelled out in full, Windows Search is better equipped to identify the correct result. This reduces the friction associated with finding applications and files, particularly for users who may not remember exact names or who prefer quick, approximate queries.

Users with precision touchpads will find new customization options in this update. The settings panel now allows for the adjustment of scroll and zoom speeds, providing greater control over cursor movement and gesture sensitivity. This level of customization is essential for users who prefer specific tactile feedback or who use their devices in varied environments.

The Start menu has also been updated to improve keyboard navigation. The account section now displays the current subscription status for Microsoft services, such as Microsoft 365. This provides immediate visibility into account health and renewal dates without requiring users to navigate to external web portals.

The Start menu now shows subscription status, and battery settings offer new customization.

Power management receives a notable enhancement with the return of custom battery level settings. Users can once again set a specific battery percentage at which the PC switches to power-saving mode. This feature allows for proactive battery management, extending device lifespan and ensuring users can plan for charging opportunities.

For those who utilize widgets, the lock screen experience has been simplified. New users will find that only the weather widget is displayed by default on the lock screen. This reduction in default widgets aims to declutter the interface and provide a cleaner initial setup experience, with other widgets available for manual addition.

What This Means for You

For everyday Windows users, these updates represent a gradual refinement of the operating system’s core components. The File Explorer changes, particularly the file size formatting and middle-click tab support, address long-standing usability requests. Voice Access improvements expand the reach of hands-free control, while search enhancements reduce the cognitive load of finding files and apps.

IT administrators and power users should note that these features are being introduced via preview builds. This allows Microsoft to gather feedback and identify potential issues before a wider rollout. The inclusion of subscription status in the Start menu also reflects the growing integration of Microsoft 365 services into the Windows experience.

How to Get the Update

These preview builds are currently available to Windows Insiders. To access them, you will need to join the Windows Insider Program, which is free. You can navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program to enroll and check for updates.

For those not interested in testing preview software, these features will eventually be released to the general public as optional updates. Microsoft typically rolls out preview features to the stable channel after a period of testing and refinement. Full details on all changes can be found in the official release notes for builds 26100.8942 and 26200.8942.

Source: Windows | PCWorld

Over to you: Which of the new File Explorer changes will you use most often, the middle-click tabs or the file size formatting?