Any major update to Windows 11 must go via the Windows Insider Program's various channels before being released. The Insider Program has several channels that correspond to how far ahead of time you'll be able to test new features, the most cutting-edge of which is the 'Dev Channel,' aimed at the most technical users.
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The 'Dev Channel' was the first area where Sun Valley appeared, with a build number of 2200 showing up in November 2021. Shortly after, paint and Windows Media Player software updates emerged in the 'Beta Channel.'
These will be stable builds related to a future release with Microsoft-verified changes. As the launch date approaches, Windows 11 22H2 will be released on the 'Release Preview Channel,' the most stable of the Insider Program's channels. Microsoft backs build released using this channel.
If you haven't already joined the Windows Insider Program and want to start testing future updates early, you can do so immediately from your PC's Settings app. Select 'Windows Insider Program' from the 'Update & Security' area, then choose the channel you want to join. You will then start receiving updates for the channel you joined through 'Windows Update' on your PC.
