Build 26220.8079 out to Beta Channel

Build 26220.8079 is a new Windows 11 Insider Preview build that has been released to the Beta Channel and is now available through Windows Update. Devices enrolled in the Windows Insider Program on the Beta Channel will see this build offered automatically when checking for updates.

If a device is on Release Preview or another channel and is unexpectedly seeing Beta builds, this can be due to a temporary channel configuration issue. Similar recent issues with Release Preview being unavailable or systems being moved to Beta have been identified and corrected, after which Release Preview was restored.

For systems that were unintentionally moved to Beta and started downloading a Beta build, one confirmed workaround was:

1. Before the Beta update completed, delete the WindowsSelfHost key from the registry and restart.
2. Pause Windows Update.
3. Delete the contents of C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download and restart again.
4. After the issue is fixed and Release Preview is available again, relink the device to the Release Preview Channel.

Use registry edits with care, as incorrect changes can affect system stability.

References:

• My system has been on RP channel why is it downloading a Beta release? - Microsoft Q&A
• Release Preview channel seems to be missing - Microsoft Q&A