Microsoft ships new Dev Channel preview build 26300.8085

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8085 to the Dev Channel, delivering the update as KB5079483 for Windows 11 version 25H2 testers. The build was published on March 20, 2026, through the official Windows Insider Blog.

The new preview is not a major feature drop, but it does include several visible changes for Insiders, especially around accessibility and feedback tools. Microsoft says Dev Channel features can roll out gradually, with some changes appearing first for users who have enabled the toggle to get the latest updates as soon as they are available.

Pointer Indicator returns for low-vision users

The clearest user-facing change in this build is the resumed rollout of Pointer Indicator, an accessibility feature aimed at low-vision users. Microsoft says the setting makes the cursor easier to locate and track, and it can be enabled under Settings > Accessibility > Mouse pointer and touch. The company also says users can toggle it with the shortcut Win + Ctrl + Shift + X.

Microsoft is also expanding Windows Magnifier, which can now magnify protected content in this build. Alongside that, the company says it fixed an issue where the Network and Sharing Center could incorrectly show two active Wi-Fi connections after switching networks. It also improved reliability for explorer.exe when closing the input flyout and fixed a problem affecting fluid dictation options in voice typing settings.

Feedback Hub gets a broader redesign

Build 26300.8085 also introduces a refreshed Feedback Hub experience for Insiders in the Dev and Canary channels. Microsoft says the app now uses a simpler unified feedback submission template, easier navigation, a new compliment category, private or public visibility controls, a smaller focused feedback surface for quick reports, and improved screenshot capture and review tools.

Microsoft says the build is based on Windows 11 version 25H2 via an enablement package, and it reiterates that Insider features in active development may change, be removed, or never ship in a final public release.

Microsoft has also confirmed a new known issue tied to the March 2026 Windows 11 cumulative update KB5079473. The company says some users may be unable to sign in with a Microsoft account in certain apps after installing the update. On Microsoft’s support page, KB5079473 is listed for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 as OS Builds 26100.8037 and 26200.8037, released on March 10, 2026.

For Samsung users, Microsoft has also confirmed a separate known issue affecting some Samsung PCs after the February 2026 security update KB5077181 and later updates. According to the company, the problem can make the C: drive inaccessible on certain Galaxy Book 4 and Samsung desktop models, although Microsoft says the root cause is the Samsung Galaxy Connect app rather than Windows itself. The company has listed the issue as mitigated after temporarily removing the affected app from the Microsoft Store.