Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26244 for the Canary Channel added backup support for more sound settings, a Microsoft account recovery-email prompt, a conditional Game Pass recommendation, and a gradual redirect from the legacy Fonts Control Panel to Settings. Microsoft’s release post is dated June 28, 2024, and identifies the flight as Build 26244; it does not confirm the “.5000” suffix in the supplied title.
Build number and 24H2 context
Microsoft’s June 28, 2024 Windows Insider announcement calls this release Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26244 for the Canary Channel. The post does not identify it as “26244.5000.”
The 24H2 context comes from Microsoft’s May 22, 2024 announcement, which said Canary and Dev Insiders were receiving builds based on Windows 11 version 24H2. However, Microsoft cautions that Canary builds should not be treated as matched to a particular Windows release. The build’s channel is the clearest way to identify its status.
What changed in Build 26244
Windows Backup can include sound settings
When both Personalization and Other Windows settings are enabled under Settings > Accounts > Windows backup, Windows Backup can back up many sound settings, including the selected sound scheme. Those settings can then be restored through the Windows Backup app.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Microsoft account recovery-email prompt
Microsoft began gradually rolling out an Add now banner under Settings > Account for people signed in with a Microsoft account who have not added a recovery email address. The banner is a prompt to add one; it may not appear for every eligible Insider immediately.
Game Pass recommendation on Settings home
A recommendation card for Game Pass may appear on the Settings homepage for people who actively play games on their PC. Microsoft says the Settings homepage is available only on Windows 11 Home and Pro when the user is signed in with a Microsoft account. The card is a recommendation, not a change to the operating system’s edition or a statement that every Insider will see it.
Fonts links move toward Settings
Microsoft began rolling out a change that redirects links to the Fonts Control Panel to Settings > Personalization > Fonts. The legacy Control Panel remains accessible by opening the system fonts folder in File Explorer, and the Fonts settings page also provides a link to that folder.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Other changes
Microsoft described the remaining updates as a small set of general improvements and fixes rather than detailing additional headline features.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Fix included in the release
The build fixes an underlying issue that could cause some people upgrading from Windows 11 version 22H2 or 23H2 to a 26xxx build to encounter a Pcasvc.dll error dialog reading “Missing entry: PcaWallpaperAppDetect.” Microsoft’s note describes this as a fix for the cause of the error, not a separate new feature.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Known issues Microsoft listed
- Stuck on an older build: Microsoft was investigating reports of some Canary and Dev Insiders remaining on Build 26040 or Build 23620. For people who wanted the latest build, Microsoft suggested downloading the latest ISO, performing a clean installation, and opting the device back into flighting.
- Windows Update page display: In certain languages, the Windows Update page in Settings could display incorrectly after the previous flight. Microsoft said the update should still arrive automatically, though affected users might need to wait.
- Task Manager colors: Colors in the Performance section might display incorrectly in dark mode.
- Voice Typing: Some languages, including Chinese, could produce errors.
What Canary users should consider
Microsoft describes Canary as an experimental channel, not a preview tied to a guaranteed Windows release. In the Windows Insider Blog announcement, Amanda Langowski and Brandon LeBlanc wrote: “The builds we release to the Canary Channel should not be seen as matched to any specific release of Windows and features and experiences included in these builds may never get released as we try out different concepts and get feedback.” Features can change, be replaced, or be removed, and some are distributed through Controlled Feature Rollout to only a subset of Insiders at first.
Channel changes also have practical consequences: Microsoft says leaving Canary requires a clean installation, and moving to a channel that receives lower build numbers is not possible without one. Before installing an experimental flight, consider whether you can tolerate preview issues and whether you are prepared to reinstall Windows if you later need to leave the channel.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →
