Microsoft has begun distributing a preview update for Windows 11 that directly addresses long-standing complaints from power users regarding the operating system's context menu. The update, identified as KB5127936, is cumulative for versions 26H2 and 25H2 and aims to restore user control over command locations that were previously obscured or moved behind additional clicks. This announcement coincides with Microsoft's quarterly financial report, which highlighted a persistent drop in revenue generated from Windows licenses on new personal computers.
The primary focus of the update is a new "customize menu" button that allows users to tailor their right-click experience. Users can now toggle built-in commands such as "Send To" or "Create Shortcut," rearrange items on the main menu, and manage which third-party extensions appear in either the primary or submenus. This functionality resolves previous frustrations where familiar commands were hidden behind a top row of icons or relegated to a "Show more options" submenu, forcing many users to rely on custom scripts to restore their preferred workflow.
In addition to menu improvements, the preview introduces a feature called Cloud Rebuild. This recovery option enables the reinstallation of Windows 11 directly from the cloud via Windows Update, even if the existing system fails to boot. Unlike traditional repair methods, Cloud Rebuild functions more like a fresh installation, pulling the necessary image and drivers without requiring external media or custom recovery images. Users should note that this process does not preserve existing applications or files, though it offers an option to sanitize entire system drives for data security before reinstalling. The update also includes other improvements related to Xbox mode and settings as detailed in Microsoft's official release announcement.
Sources: Ars Technica.