Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 1 hr ago
Windows 11 Insider builds add Search controls and business privacy settings
Microsoft is testing new Windows 11 features in Insider Preview builds for its Beta and Experimental channels.
Search results can now include controls for volume, screen brightness and cursor size, so users can change these settings without opening Settings.
People with a connected Android phone can use phone actions from Search, including calls, texts and Do Not Disturb; iPhone support is expected early next year.
Search can also show file previews and details, web answers, and Microsoft Store apps and games, with filters and options to give feedback on results.
Businesses will be able to keep Feedback Hub submissions private within their organisation using a new Intune policy, while Microsoft and people in that organisation can still access them.
These features are still being tested, so they are not confirmed for all Windows 11 users; Microsoft has not said when a wider rollout will happen.
Microsoft is testing expanded Windows 11 Search features in new Insider builds, including controls for settings and actions on connected phones.
Search can show richer file details, web answers and result filters, and users can rate individual results.
Microsoft is also introducing an Intune policy that lets commercial customers keep Feedback Hub submissions private within their organisation.
The features are being tested in Insider builds and are not confirmed for rollout to all Windows 11 users.
Android phone support is available, while iPhone support is expected early next year.
- Who
- Microsoft is testing the changes for Windows 11 Insiders and introducing a privacy policy for commercial customers.
- What
- New Search features include inline controls, richer results and phone actions. A new Intune policy can keep Feedback Hub submissions within an organisation.
- When
- The announcement was made on October 30, 2026. Beta and Experimental builds were available to Insiders by October 31.
- Where
- Windows 11 Insider Beta and Experimental channels.
- Why
- Microsoft says the Search changes are part of an effort to make Search more action-oriented. The privacy policy lets businesses keep feedback within their organisation.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Microsoft announced new Windows 11 Insider features, including expanded Search capabilities and a privacy policy for commercial customers.
Beta Build 26220.9836 and Experimental Build 26340.9843 were reported as available to Windows Insiders.
- Beta build
- 26220.9836
- Experimental build
- 26340.9843
- Future Platforms build
- 29698.1000
- Phone support
- Android available now; iPhone support expected early next year
- Privacy policy
- Feedback can remain within an organisation’s tenant when the Intune policy is enabled
4 sources
Windows 11 Insider builds bring expanded Search features and new privacy controls
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