Windows 10 20H2 could be a major release after all, Microsoft ports Dev Channel features to 19042 Beta builds

Microsoft has released a new build to the Beta Channel of the Windows Insiders program. Build 19042.421 in the Beta Channel brings in new features that were originally detailed earlier this month with the Dev Channel Build 20161.

It was long thought that Microsoft would release the next Windows update this year, 20H2, as a minor build similar to how it did with 19H1 and 19H2 and not as a full-fledged feature update. Therefore, the new features showcased in the Dev Channel Build 20161 were not expected until next year. However, we might get to see a major 20H2 update after all going by the recent release of 19042.421 to the Beta Channel, which has only been getting cumulative updates so far. It may be worth noting here that unlike the Rings of yore, Dev Channel features aren't tied to any specific release.

Build 19042.421 brings features such as theme-aware Start tiles, support for ALT+TAB multitasking for websites opened in the new Microsoft Edge, improved pinned sites, personalized taskbar for new users or first logon scenarios depending on the use case, improved notifications, and more.

While Build 19042 or 20H2 will officially release only in September or October, it is actually possible to enable it in the current 19041 release to manufacturing (RTM) build by downloading a small enablement package just like how it was during the 19H2 days. This enablement package will also replace the legacy Edge browser with the new Chromium-based Edge.

That being said, now that 20H2 looks to be quite a major update, we suggest waiting till the official bits are offered via Windows Update as most of the new features are still in the early stages and are likely buggy.

For the complete changelog, check out the Source link below.