By James Peckham
Publication Date: 2026-04-10 18:00:00
The next step in Microsoft’s bid to improve its desktop OS is a major change to the Windows Insider Program, which gives enthusiasts early access to the latest software builds.
Going forward, you’ll be able to switch in and out of the Insider Program without reinstalling your computer’s entire operating system. Previously, leaving the program or switching to a different version of the OS meant wiping your device and doing a clean install of Windows. Soon, that won’t be necessary; Microsoft says it’ll take a bit longer to install each update, but it’ll migrate your data, settings, and other tools, likely saving you time overall.
Microsoft is also radically changing its Insider Program options, moving from four primary channels to two, which are now simply called Beta and Experimental.
Beta will cover imminent updates, and Microsoft is ditching gradual feature rollouts, meaning you’ll get access to new tools as soon as they’re announced.
Experimental is the more…
