Microsoft is making changes to the Beta channel of the Windows 11 Insider Preview program. They will now use a single build number for each release, but will still deliver new features using Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) technology to create an artificial division within the Beta channel.

The latest build in the Beta channel is 22635.2419 (KB5031463), which will be provided to all users in that channel through an enablement package (eKB). Users who want to receive new features gradually can enable the “Get the latest updates as soon as possible” switch in Windows Update. If users do not wish to receive new features, they should not be part of the Insider Program.

Essentially, not much has changed. Instead of having two Beta channel builds, there will now be one build, with some users receiving new features and others not. Eventually, all new features introduced to this channel will be available to everyone, but those with the toggle enabled will receive them more quickly.

In today’s build, there are no new features. Its purpose is to align everyone to the same build number. However, if you have been receiving builds without new features in the Beta channel, you will start to see previously introduced features, such as Windows Ink in the shell and the new Copilot icon in the Taskbar, become available over time.

There are also some fixes included, particularly for File Explorer. The work to improve its reliability will continue in the future, and any progress made is appreciated.