New Windows 11 Update KB5060829 Boosts File Explorer and Search Speed
Microsoft has rolled out a new Release Preview build (26100.4482) for Windows 11 Insiders, marked under KB5060829 , bringing performance enhancements and usability improvements across several core components of the system.
One of the major updates included in this release is the improved performance when extracting files from archive formats like 7z or .rar , especially when dealing with large archives or copying a high number of files at once. Microsoft explains that this enhancement makes the process smoother and faster, which users should notice clearly during daily use.
In addition to File Explorer, Windows Search has also been optimized to respond more quickly. Previously, users reported delays where the search box could take over ten seconds to load before becoming usable — an issue that has now been addressed.
The Taskbar has received some tweaks as well. It now dynamically resizes icons to make better use of available space, allowing more apps to fit without overcrowding. Users can adjust how the taskbar behaves through settings — choosing between resizing only when needed, always using smaller icons, or keeping them full-sized.
Other notable additions include:
- A new PC Migration tool currently rolling out in phases, designed to help users transfer files and settings easily from an old PC to a new one during setup.
- Enhanced Start menu pinning policies for administrators, allowing Start layout pins to be applied only on first sign-in while still letting users customize their layout afterward.
- Improvements to the Share window , including visual previews and image compression options (High, Medium, Low) when sharing content.
🔧 Additional Enhancements & Fixes
Accessibility features have also seen updates:
- The Narrator now includes a Screen Curtain mode , ideal for protecting privacy in public spaces.
- It also offers a more intuitive way to discover and learn about its features directly within the interface.
- Voice Access now supports Simplified and Traditional Chinese, along with the ability to add custom words to the voice dictionary.
Settings :
- New enterprise-focused cards appear for IT-managed devices.
- The selected country/region during setup is now displayed under Time & Language > Language & Region .
Windowing :
- Fixed issues related to ALT+Tab behavior, unexpected window resizing after sleep, and explorer.exe crashes during dragging with snap enabled.
Graphics and Display :
- Reduced screen flickering during display transitions.
- Resolved color rendering issues on certain displays.
Input and Localization :
- Japanese input via touch keyboard now works properly after switching languages.
- UI glitches affecting Arabic and Hebrew language packs have been fixed.
Storage & Performance :
- Improved efficiency for Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) .
- Fixed an issue preventing complete removal of unused language packs, reducing unnecessary storage usage.
Search :
- Addressed slow loading times and typing issues in Windows Search .
This update is currently being rolled out gradually, so not all users may see it immediately. You can check for updates manually via Settings > Windows Update .
For more details, you can visit the official announcement on Microsoft’s blog .