In Windows 11, you no longer have to rely on ViveTool, as Microsoft now provides a setting to manage test features, and in this guide, I will show you the steps to complete this task.
I’ve been reporting on preview builds for a long time, and one of the most frustrating things has been installing Insider builds only to find that features were missing from my setup.
How to access early features by unlocking Windows 11
To enable testing features with the Windows 11 Insider program, use these steps:
- Open it Settings.
- Click on Windows Update.
- Click on “Windows Insider Program” page.
- Make sure your device is on For testing experience under the “Choose your experience” section.
- Click on Advanced Options preparation.
- Verify the version of the operating system. For example, version 25H2.
- Click on Feature flags page.
- (Option 1) Select the Enabled option for the test feature to be tested.
- Quick tip: You can enable one or more features at once.
- (Option 2) Select the There is no exclusion option to allow the system to control the availability of this feature on your device.
- (Option 3) Select the It is disabled option to disable the test feature on your computer.
- Click on Apply Changes button.
- Click on reboot now button.
Once you complete the steps, the test feature you selected will be enabled on your computer.
FAQs about enabling experimental features in Windows 11
These are common questions about managing feature flags in Windows 11.
What are the trial features in Windows 11?
Experimental features are early capabilities that Microsoft tests with Insider users before general release. These features may be incomplete, hidden, or changed over time.
What is the feature flags page in Windows 11 Internal System?
The feature flags page is a Windows 11 internal setting that allows users to enable, disable, or manage test features. Instead of relying on non-Microsoft tools, it provides a built-in interface to manage feature availability for Insider-based builds.
What is the difference between Feature Flags and ViveTool Windows 11?
Feature Flags is a formal experience for managing experimental features, while ViveTool is a third-party command line utility for unlocking hidden capabilities.
How to enable test features using feature flags in Windows 11?
You can enable testing features by opening Settings, going to Windows Update, selecting Windows Insider Program, and verifying your build. Then open “Advanced Options,” access feature flags, select “Allowed” with the features you want.
Does the Beta channel still use Controlled Feature Releases?
What Beta does is remove reliance on Controlled Feature Releases for announced features, meaning most users get them automatically.
Additional resources
Check out other in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and useful tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:
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