Windows 10 Insider build 21301 brings improvements to the touch keyboard

Keyboard and touch improvements are central to the latest Insider build of Windows 10.

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What you need to know

Windows Insiders on the Dev Channel can now download Windows 10 build 21301. The build includes several improvements and refinements to the touch keyboard, as well as other touch and keyboard-centric improvements.

The build is available to all Insiders in the Dev Channel. Microsoft clarified that going forward all Insiders in the Dev Channel will receive the same builds.

Here’s what’s new in Windows 10 build 21301, as found on theWindows blog.

Building on thedesign changes already live in the Dev Channel, Windows Insiders will start to notice some more refinements rolling out for the touch keyboard based on their feedback. Those refinements include:

The revamped touch keyboard settings menu allows you to quickly change between keyboard modes, access more settings and give feedback. Some Insiders may also see updates to the default keyboard layout on 12" or larger screens with the keyboard having a more traditional keyboard layout featuring an ESC, Tab, and Windows key and other small tweaks.

The updated default layout now features the Esc, Tab, Windows, and Alt keys. One thing we heard from our customers is that the candidate bar can feel cluttered and hard to quickly process. To reduce the cognitive overload we will be displaying 5 candidates maximum and centering them into position above the keyboard.

Here are the other changes and improvements available in the build:

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You should be able to grab the build now through Windows Update if you are a Dev Channel Insider.

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.