Microsoft released Windows 11 build 26100.1876 (KB5043178) to the Release Preview Channel on September 23, 2024. It targets Windows 11 version 24H2 and adds several interface, power, search, accessibility and input improvements. This was an Insider preview—not a general release—and many features were enabled through gradual rollouts.
Microsoft’s announcement identifies the build and its rollout model. KB5043178 later advanced to OS build 26100.1882 on September 30, 2024, so 26100.1876 should now be treated as a historical preview build.
What Windows 11 build 26100.1876 means
| Identifier | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Windows 11 24H2 | The feature-version branch being updated |
| Build 26100.1876 | The operating-system build number in the September 23 Insider release |
| KB5043178 | Microsoft’s knowledge-base identifier for the cumulative preview update |
| Channel | Release Preview |
| Release date | September 23, 2024 |
This was a cumulative update within Windows 11 24H2, not a new Windows version. Release Preview builds are closer to production than Dev or Canary builds, but they remain preview software and can be changed, delayed or withdrawn.
New features and interface changes
More useful Start-menu account controls
The Start-menu account manager gives Sign out a more prominent location. Its ellipsis menu also exposes other users, making switching accounts easier.
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- Sign out ends the current session and closes its open applications.
- Switch user leaves the current session available while another user signs in.
This improves access to existing account functions; it does not introduce a new multi-user system.
Share local files from taskbar Search
When a local file appears in taskbar Search results, Windows can expose a direct sharing command. You no longer necessarily need to open File Explorer first. The option applies to local files, not web results, and its appearance can vary by file type, associated apps, policy and Microsoft’s staged rollout.
Redesigned Delivery Optimization page
The Delivery Optimization settings page received a Windows 11 visual redesign. Find it, typically, at Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization. Delivery Optimization still controls how update content is downloaded from Microsoft and, where enabled, other PCs; the update primarily changes presentation rather than the service’s networking behavior.
HDR energy recommendation
On PCs with HDR-capable displays, Windows can recommend turning HDR off under Settings > System > Power & battery > Energy recommendations. Disabling HDR may reduce display power use, but it also changes HDR video, game and app presentation. The recommendation is not a guaranteed battery-life increase: results depend on the panel, brightness, workload and whether HDR was active.
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- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Centered lock-screen media controls
When compatible media is playing, its controls move to the lower-center area of the lock screen. This is a layout change rather than a new media player, and controls can differ between applications.
Conditional 20 percent battery warning
Windows adds a pop-up when the battery reaches 20 percent if Energy Saver is set to Always On. It is not a universal new 20 percent warning for every Windows 11 installation.
Additional mouse controls
Under Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse, the rollout adds controls to:
- Turn off enhanced pointer precision, which changes mouse acceleration behavior.
- Choose the mouse-scroll direction.
Disabling pointer acceleration can provide more consistent movement for some games and precision workflows, but it is not automatically preferable for every user.
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Separate power modes for AC and battery
At Settings > System > Power & battery, compatible systems can use different Power Mode choices when plugged in and when running on battery—for example, higher performance on AC and greater efficiency on battery. Available choices depend on hardware, firmware, Windows edition and organizational policy.
Fixes and technical improvements
Microsoft listed the following normally rolled-out changes for this build:
- Updated attribution information in
credits.txtfiles for Rust open-source components. - Fixed a possible memory leak involving combo boxes with input focus when their containing window closed.
- Fixed WebView2 applications failing to detect Xbox 360 and Bluetooth controller input.
- Improved NVDA and other screen readers that could fail to narrate all content in some applications running with administrator privileges. Microsoft added this clarification to the announcement on September 24, 2024.
These fixes are separate from the staged feature rollouts, so receiving the build did not guarantee that every interface change was enabled.
Who could install it?
Build 26100.1876 was intended for Windows Insiders running the Windows 11 24H2 branch and enrolled in Release Preview. Microsoft’s enrollment guidance is available in Join the Windows Insider Program and manage Insider settings.
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- 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.
- Open Settings and select Windows Update.
- Open Windows Insider Program if the PC is not enrolled.
- Link the Microsoft account registered for Insider participation.
- Select Release Preview Channel and accept the agreements.
- Return to Windows Update, check for updates and restart when prompted.
Older Microsoft instructions may show Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program; Windows 11’s current organization generally places it under Windows Update. Labels can also be hidden by organizational policy.
How to check your build
- Press Windows + R.
- Enter
winverand press Enter. - Check the Windows version and OS build in the dialog.
You can also open Settings > System > About > Windows specifications. For a technical check in an elevated PowerShell window, run:
Get-ComputerInfo | Select-Object WindowsProductName, WindowsVersion, OsBuildNumberA PC can remain on Windows 11 24H2 without showing 26100.1876 because later cumulative updates replace earlier builds.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why a listed feature may be missing
- The gradual rollout has not reached your device.
- A server-side configuration, account state, app association or hardware requirement is missing.
- The PC is on another Windows version or Insider channel.
- An organizational policy hides the control.
- A later build changed or superseded the feature.
“Included in the build” therefore does not mean “enabled immediately for every Insider.”
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- 【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
Should you install a Release Preview build?
It can make sense when
- You already test Release Preview builds.
- You need to validate Windows 11 24H2 behavior before wider deployment.
- You specifically want the account, Search sharing, mouse or power-control changes.
- You are testing accessibility, WebView2 or controller compatibility.
Wait when
- The PC is mission-critical or requires maximum driver and application compatibility.
- You expect every announced feature to appear immediately.
- You have no current backup or recovery plan.
Before enrolling, back up important files, confirm access to the BitLocker recovery key if encryption is enabled, and check that you can recover the device. Windows’ rollback option may disappear after its rollback window or certain servicing operations; it is not guaranteed.
Do not confuse 26100.1876 with 26100.1882
Microsoft’s September 30, 2024 support entry for KB5043178 documents OS build 26100.1882, a later preview revision under the same KB number. Its setup, Task Manager, Copilot Pro, Arm and Roblox notes should not be attributed to the original 26100.1876 announcement. Advanced servicing commands on that page apply to the relevant later package and prerequisites, not automatically to the September 23 build.
The Bottom Line
Windows 11 build 26100.1876 was a September 23, 2024 Release Preview update for 24H2, notable for usability and power-management refinements rather than a major Windows redesign. Install it only when you need Insider testing; ordinary users should rely on the later supported cumulative releases.
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