In March 2021, Microsoft announced the release of Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 21337. The update was exclusively released to Windows Insiders members of the Dev Channel.

The Insider Preview Build 21337 finally brings some much-awaited changes, unlike most build releases. Get ready for some exciting features such as Auto HDR, Virtual Desktop customization, and a layout change to the File Explorer. With the 21337 Preview Build, Microsoft has also fixed some recurring issues.

What Is the Windows Insider Program?

Windows passes through different developmental branches before updates become official. The Windows Insider Program is Microsoft’s official community that gets access to official releases and updates before anyone else. "Insiders," as they’re popularly referred to, are responsible for running previews of the Windows platform and providing feedback.

Through the Insider Program, Microsoft can constantly improve the Windows OS and directly engage with a dedicated community that wants to see Windows succeed.

You can easily register for the Windows Insider Program and join millions of other exclusive individuals who get first access to the latest updates and features. As an Insider, you can also connect with experts from Microsoft and participate in exciting contests and events.

Once you register for the Insider Program, you choose the specific channel you want to be a part of. Each channel provides a different set of Windows updates based on your preferences. Build Preview 21337 was released on the Dev Channel, which is meant for highly technical users. Here are some of the updates you can look forward to.

Customize Virtual Desktops

The built-in Virtual Desktop feature has been welcomed by Windows 10 users. With Virtual Desktops' help, you can be more organized and productive by separating work-life tasks into different desktops. This allows you to declutter your workspace and multitask by switching between different Virtual Desktops instead of constantly shifting between different windows.

Windows Insider Virtual Desktops
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In the latest build, Microsoft has provided far greater control over Virtual Desktops to users. You will soon be able to re-order the different Virtual Desktops and customize them as you see fit.

The new customization features include renaming the Virtual Desktops and choosing different backgrounds for each Virtual Desktop. You can arrange the Virtual Desktops by drag-and-drop, similar to re-ordering pinned apps on the taskbar.

Updated File Explorer Layout

Microsoft has announced a visual update to File Explorer after quite some time with the 21337 Build Preview. The existing default layout of the File Explorer is user-friendly for desktop users but it isn't ideal for touch screens.

Updated Layout of File Explorer
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Keeping this in mind, Microsoft has updated its default File Explorer UI (User Interface) to provide extra padding in the layout. The updated padding brings greater consistency when using XAML for a more responsive user interface on all devices.

In case you prefer the classic File Explorer layout, you can revert by selecting Use compact mode under View Options.

Auto HDR Preview

Perhaps the most exciting update in the latest build is the coveted Auto HDR feature. The gaming community has been keenly waiting for Microsoft to debut Auto HDR on Windows 10. Auto HDR significantly improves your gaming experience by enhancing your visual experience.

HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a technique that intensifies light and dark areas to appear more luminescent and realistic. The Xbox X/S already had Auto HDR capability, but it will soon be available to Windows 10 users.

Related: Microsoft Launches Auto HDR on Windows 10

Auto HDR is an AI-based technology developed by Microsoft that provides users with HDR graphics in real-time. According to Microsoft, you can immediately experience HDR visuals on more than 1000+ DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 games once you enable Auto HDR and utilize your HDR monitor’s capabilities.

Unfortunately, Auto HDR is still in preview, and it might take some time until Microsoft officially rolls it out for Windows 10 users. Until then, Microsoft Windows Insiders of the Dev Channel are requested to provide vital feedback to optimize Windows 10 gaming experience.

Caption Settings for Windows Insiders

Microsoft has improved the Caption settings within Windows 10 with the preview release of Build 21337. Captions make it easier for you to use the device by displaying audio as text. This is a feature that will improve accessibility for users with hearing impairment in using Windows 10.

Captions Settings
">Microsoft

You can choose preset caption styles or personalize a style that works for you. To enable Captions, head on to Settings > Ease of Access > Hearing > Captions.

Inbox App Updates

The latest build preview brings some significant changes to Windows 10 inbox apps as well.

An important change has been announced for the Notepad app. It will no longer be buried within the Windows Accessories folder and will instead have its place in the Start menu. The Notepad app will receive updates through the Microsoft Store.

In 2020, Microsoft introduced Microsoft Power Automate Desktop as an important desktop automation tool. Through this free, user-friendly tool, users could optimize workflows by automating repetitive tasks in Windows 10.

The Windows Insider Preview Build 21337 will include Power Automate Desktop as an inbox app. The app will be accessible through the Windows Accessories folder in the Start menu. Thanks to Power Automate Desktop, users will be able to automate desktop and web applications. Microsoft provides predefined support for apps such as Microsoft Excel.

An exciting update for technical users is the inclusion of Windows Terminal as an inbox app. Microsoft’s Windows Terminal is a fast and efficient modern command line terminal for users of PowerShell, Command Prompt, and Windows Subsystem for Linux. Windows Terminal will receive updates through the Microsoft Store.

Other Changes

Apart from these major updates, the Preview Build also includes a new IME (Input Method Editor) candidate window design for anyone using Chinese Traditional, Japanese, and Indic IMEs. The new input method editor will make it easier to type East Asian language characters.

The emoji panel (Win+Period) has also been updated to include support for more languages as well. Belarus, Filipino, Cherokee, and Thai are some of the new languages with emoji panel support.

Have You Tried the Windows 10 Build Update 21337?

Microsoft has brought on some exciting updates to Windows 10 with the latest Preview Build update. PC gaming users will primarily be excited about this update and to experience Auto HDR in their gameplay.

Microsoft is currently requesting feedback on the Windows Insider Preview Build 21337 from Insiders on the Dev Channel.