Windows 11 removes Cortana app and adds new Settings homepage in latest Insider build
Windows Insiders in the Canary Channel can say goodbye to Cortana and hello to a new homepage in Settings.
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What you need to know
Windows Insiders in the Canary Channel have a new build to install. The update brings systems to Windows 11 Build 25967 and includes several changes and fixes over the last preview build. As this is an update to the Canary Channel, you can expect some bugs. But the update also gives us a chance to see what Microsoft has in the works and to provide feedback.
The biggest change in Build 25967 is the addition of a new homepage in the Settings app. The new homepage provides a “dynamic and personalized experience,“according to Microsoft. The homepage features interactive cards that represent different types of devices and their related settings. For example, the cloud storage card lets you know when you’re running out of room in the cloud.
The build also removes the Cortana app, which is a change we already knew was on the way.
While not exclusive to this build, any Windows 11 PC in the Canary or Dev Channels running Windows 11 version 22309.xxxx.x or higher will see a refreshed Windows license page in the Microsoft Store.
Here’s everything that’s new and improved, as shared by Microsoft.
Windows 11 Build 25967: What’s New
Introducing the new Settings homepage
We’re introducing a new homepage in Settings that offers you a dynamic and personalized experience. It provides an overview of your device, quick access to key settings, and helps manage your Microsoft account.
We created interactive cards that represent various device and account related settings, grouped by commonly accessed functions. Each card is optimized to offer the most relevant information and controls at your fingertips. In this release, you’ll see up to seven cards, with more coming soon.
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Here’s an overview of each card:
Windows 11 Build 25967: Changes and Improvements
General
Quick Settings
Settings
Windows Subsystem for Linux
Microsoft Store Update
Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels running version 22309.xxxx.x of the Microsoft Store and higher will see the following improvement rolling out:
Visual refresh of Windows license pages:We’ve improved the look and feel of Windows license pages in the Microsoft Store to be consistent with Windows 11. The pages provide comparison tables between Windows editions to help make it easier to choose what license is best for you.
Microsoft’sblog postabout the update also breaks down all of the known issues in the build and outlines several fixes for issues.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
