{
  "id": 2152391,
  "title": "Windows 11 is getting a much-needed change to privacy settings — but it's something Microsoft should have sorted a long time ago",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/20/windows-11-is-getting-a-much-needed-change-to-privacy-settings-but",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-20T14:30:34.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "TechRadar",
    "slug": "techradar",
    "url": "https://www.techradar.com/computing/windows/windows-11-is-getting-a-much-needed-change-to-privacy-settings-but-its-something-microsoft-shouldve-sorted-a-long-time-ago"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Windows 11 is introducing enhanced privacy settings, allowing users to control app permissions more granularly. Previously, this feature was only available for apps from the Microsoft Store; however, Microsoft has now expanded the options to include all desktop software. This change has been spotted in the latest Experimental Insider Build (26340.9212), where users can now individually allow or deny access to the camera, microphone, and location for Win32 apps. Previously, Win32 applications only had a master toggle to enable or disable all permissions. Moreover, Windows 11 is said to have dropped the drag tray feature from its interface, which had drawn complaints from testers. The tray, designed to appear when dragging files on the desktop, would provide quick sharing options like WhatsApp or Outlook. However, it was found to be problematic for users with busy desktops or maximized folder windows, as it could obstruct the target folder. Microsoft acknowledged receiving feedback about the drag tray experience and has decided to remove it in the current build, but they are still exploring improvements in this area for future updates.",
  "summary": "Microsoft is finally changing app permissions to make sense for all software.",
  "key_points": [
    "Windows 11 introduces granular app permission settings for camera, microphone, and location.",
    "Master toggle for Win32 apps replaced by individual permission controls.",
    "Drag tray feature removed due to user feedback and usability issues."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}