Windows Tutorial: Unenroll Windows 11 from Beta Channel without losing data (2023)

Windows Tutorial: Unenroll Windows 11 from Beta Channel without losing data (2023)

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In this tutorial, we will discover: Windows Tutorial: Unenroll Windows 11 from Beta Channel without losing data (2023)
So, let’s begin!

  • Microsoft opens a window to opt out of the Beta Channel.
  • The option is only available through March 8, 2023.
  • It’s only available for devices running Windows 11 build 22621.1325 or 22623.1325.

Microsoft is now offering an “off-ramp” window to unenroll computers from the Beta Channel without reinstallation. As the release of the “moment 2” update for Windows 11 22H2 is fast approaching, the company has announced that those insiders with devices in the Beta Channel can now opt out of the program.

However, the window will only be open until March 8, 2023. After this date, if the device receives a newer preview build from the Beta Channel, the option to unenroll won’t be available. Technically, it’ll be available, but once you opt-out, the device will continue to receive builds until the next feature drop update.

Feature drop vs. feature update unenroll

Usually, once you enroll a computer in the Windows Insider Program, you cannot stop preview builds. You have to either wait until the next feature update releases or perform a clean installation. However, since the company is now preparing to roll out the second feature drop update in March, there’s a new window where the Beta Channel and the Stable Channel will have the same code, allowing users to opt-out without reinstallation gracefully.

According to the announcement, the “off-ramp will only apply to Insiders who chose the option to unenroll their device and are currently on build 22621.1325 or 22623.1325.” This opportunity does not apply to devices enrolled in the Dev Channel.

If you choose to unenroll your device between now and March 8, “a troubleshooter will run to unenroll the device from receiving new flights in the Beta Channel and uninstall the enablement package (EKB) if needed. Once the troubleshooter finishes, a reboot will be required to complete the process. After that, the device will no longer receive new Insider Preview builds from the Beta Channel.”

After the troubleshooter process is complete, the computer will perform an in-place upgrade with the March 2023 “B” release (the next Patch Tuesday), bringing it up to the “moment 2” update for Windows 11 22H2.

If you try to unenroll your computer after March 8, 2023, the device will continue to receive preview builds until the next “off-ramp” window occurs during the feature drop (moment) update.

Unenroll from the Beta Channel

If you have a device with either build 22621.1325 or 22623.1325, you can opt out of the Beta Channel from Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program and turn on the “Uneroll this device when the next version of Windows releases” toggle switch. Beta Channel unenroll

Windows 11 22H2 March update

In another related topic, this announcement also confirms that Microsoft plans to begin the gradual rollout of the second feature drop update in March. The update (known as the “moment 2” update) is a small release that will introduce the ability to access the Windows Studio Effects directly from quick settings on the taskbar. It will make it easier to use the Quick Assist app to offer remote assistance. The update will also bring various improvements to Search and the Taskbar will get some minor visual changes.

Taskbar for tablets
Taskbar for tablets (Source: Microsoft)

Furthermore, one of the biggest features of this “moment 2” update is the new touch-optimized taskbar for 2-in-1 devices that you could use as a tablet. The Settings app will now recommend energy settings to improve efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint. You will also find enhanced support for braille devices, Voice Access, and new keyboard layouts.

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