Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26300.8497Which introduces many new accessibility features. These include screen tint options, voice isolation in Voice Access, and improvements to Magnifier and Narrator.
The update also fixes several issues reported in previous builds.
New screen tint accessibility setting in Windows 11 build 26300.8497
A new Screen Tint setting adds a color overlay over the entire display to help reduce screen glare. Microsoft describes it as a tool for users who experience eye strain or light sensitivity during prolonged use.
The setting can be found in Settings under Accessibility in the Vision section. Users can choose from six preset shades or customize their own, and adjust the strength of the tint from a light wash to full intensity.
Screen Tint works independently of Night Light. While Night Light reduces blue light to support sleep cycles, Screen Tint reduces overall screen brightness to reduce eye fatigue during the day. Both features can be used at the same time.
It is important to note that screen tint cannot be enabled at the same time as color filters. Turning one on will automatically disable the other. Users who rely on color filters should keep screen tint turned off.
Plug-and-play braille display support in Narrator
Narrator now supports refreshable braille displays that use the HID open industry standard. HID-compliant displays connected via USB instantly serve as plug-and-play devices without the need for additional drivers or setup.
Bluetooth pairing is supported via Settings, Bluetooth, and Devices. Compatible models include the Orbit Reader 20, Orbit Slate 340, Freedom Scientific Focus 40, and APH Mantis Q40.
HID Braille displays can now also be used during the initial Windows setup process over USB. This update enables users who are deaf-blind to set up a new Windows 11 PC independently from the first screen. Braille input and output preferences can be adjusted in Settings, Accessibility, Narrator, Braille.
Bug fixes in this build and availability
The build fixes many issues with older versions. This fixes recurring crashes in explorer.exe that cause the screen or taskbar to refresh frequently:
- The Energy Saver quick setting no longer appears twice. Both
- Win+X and right-clicking the Start button in the taskbar now works as intended.
- An issue that caused audio to be unexpectedly muted on some devices has been resolved. The update also improves the reliability of Simple Service Discovery Protocol notifications and enhances the stability of the commands dism/online/cleanup-image/restorehealth.
Build 26300.8497 is now available on the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Channel. Microsoft has not announced when the new accessibility features will be available to broader Windows 11 users outside the Insider program.
The complete release notes, including known issues, are available through Microsoft’s Insider documentation.
