As the name suggests, it’s meant for those who are enthusiastic about Windows and have time to test features that may never work well enough for a wider audience. More recently, the Windows Insider program has evolved into something closer to an early access program that allows Microsoft to test out new features and services before they are ready for widespread use.

Changes to the Insider Program

The Windows Insider program has long provided a way for Microsoft’s most dedicated and optimistic users to test new features and bet on new Windows releases before they are officially released to everyone. It’s also been a way for Microsoft to gather feedback from its customers on what they actually want and need in their operating systems. Now Windows 11 users will get a seat at the table. The Windows Insider Program will be refocused as a “place to incubate new ideas” generally with a long lead-in time according to an announcement made by Windows Insider program lead Amand Langowski.

Beta Channel not left behind

Microsoft may be altering its development process to allow more time for testing and less time for shipping. The company has been moving toward this transition for a while now, with its software updates often pushed out without fanfare in the Windows Insider program. But now, Microsoft is indicating that it’s willing to accept more risks in order to get features out faster. The new Beta Channel is designed to let users test out new features that may never make it into a final release. The primary reason for this is that Microsoft wants to gather feedback from their most valuable customers about how things work. This means that sometimes features will confusingly appear in the Beta Channel first, even though they’re almost ready for showtime. The most notable changes will undoubtedly be new features that allow you to test out new features before they’re officially released to the public. If you want to switch channels, visit our guide on how to migrate from the Dev channel to the Beta channel. Are you excited to test out experimental features on Windows 11? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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