Windows 11 Insider Program Adds ‘Canary Channel’ to Test Experimental Features

Microsoft is changing how it distributes the alpha/beta builds of Windows 11 with the addition of a new “Canary Channel” that will let Windows Insiders try out experimental and early OS features.

The channel is intended to help Redmond test more experimental concepts for Windows 11. Features and changes will be “hot off the presses,” meaning they’ll contain “little validation and documentation,” Microsoft says(Opens in a new window).

So interested users should brace for an unstable software experience that could even require a clean reinstall. Some features may also never make it to an official release for Windows 11.  

“The new Canary Channel is going to be the place to preview platform changes that require longer lead time before getting released to customers,” Microsoft says. “Some examples of this include major changes to the Windows kernel, new APIs, etc.”

The Canary Channel will function like Microsoft’s existing “Dev Channel” for the Windows Insiders. So those in the Dev Channel will be moved to the new Canary Channel starting today. “Insiders moved to the Canary Channel will receive notifications of this migration in the OS and via email and can take steps to clean install to pick a different channel if they choose,” Microsoft says.

The various preview channels for the Windows Insider Program.

(Credit: Microsoft)

The existing Dev Channel will stick around, though, and continue offering users access to early Windows 11 features. This includes concepts that have been incubating in Microsoft’s labs, which aren’t necessarily tied to a specific Windows release. But Redmond is indicating the builds offered through the Dev Channel will be slightly more stable than those on the Canary Channel, which is designed for highly technical users.  

“In some cases, features and experiences may go out to the Canary Channel first before going out to the Dev Channel, however the Dev Channel will provide better platform stability which is why we recommend most Insiders join this channel,” the company says. That said, users in the Dev Channel can expect “some rough edges and low stability.”

The two remaining channels in the Insider Program—Beta and Release Preview—aren’t changing. They also offer access to Windows 11 preview builds, but through more stable software releases.

Microsoft adds: “For Insiders who are automatically moved to the Canary Channel but want to be in the Dev Channel instead, they will need to do a clean installation of Windows 11 to make the switch.” Here’s how to check out the Windows Insider program.