Windows 10 Microsoft Windows 10 January Build is available now

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If you’ve already signed up for Microsoft's Insider program, then you’re in luck. The Windows 10January Build, also known as the Consumer Build, which was unveiled by Microsoft on Wednesday, is now available for download.
SEE ALSO: Windows 10 hands-on: Cortana leads a feature-packed update

This latest preview release was announced on Friday in a blog post from Microsoft engineering general manager of Data & Fundamentals, Gabe Aul. In it, Aul explains that the new build, 9926, has some, but not all of the new features demonstrated this week.

Included in the 9926 build are:

• Cortana voice assistant on the desktop
• Updated Start menu
• New app settings
• New photo app
• New maps app
• Xbox app
• Windows Store beta

Even in these updates, though, there are some limitations. Cortana, for instance, supports U.S. English only for now, the Start menu lacks transparency and drag and drop and the new Photos App doesn't yet support the ability to create albums.

[video=youtube;plXwbC1O2cs]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plXwbC1O2cs[/video]

Windows 10 preview Build 9926 also includes a bunch of bug fixes and changes that, according to Microsoft, are a direct response to Insider feedback. Among them are increased language support, an improved Windows Update and a redesign of the Alt-Tab interface.

SEE ALSO: HoloLens: The hands-on experience

For now, only Windows Insiders can download and install the Windows 10 build. Microsoft, however, is still accepting signups.

While Microsoft has yet to officially announce a public release date for Windows 10, most expect it to arrive before the end of this year. When it does, Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 users will be able to download it for free (for the first 12 months of general availability).

Should you download this preview? That depends. The Insider program requires some PC expertise, a willingness to put up with unexpected bugs, key apps not working and being okay with keeping Microsoft in the loop on any issues you might have. As Microsoft cautions on the Insider Program page, "If...you think an ISO is some kind of yoga pose, this program may not be right for you." If you know what an ISO disk image is and have a spare Windows PC that you can wipe for a clean install, join and give it a try.

[video=youtube;9phebKc_DOs]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9phebKc_DOs[/video]

http://mashable.com/2015/01/23/microsoft-windows-10-build-9926-available-now/