Microsoft delivered a fresh Insider Preview build for the updated Media Player on Windows 11. The release has drawn criticism because performance tests show the app consumes more memory and takes longer to open local video files than the classic Windows Media Player introduced 17 years earlier.

The update includes several practical improvements such as refined caption handling clearer codec warnings and better file detection. Even so the main issues of elevated RAM usage and reliance on paid codecs for popular formats persist. The new version numbered 11.2605.14.0 is currently limited to Experimental Insider channels within the June 12 preview releases.

What changes arrived with the update?

Users gain the ability to match caption appearance with system wide settings allowing adjustments to font size color and background directly from Windows preferences. An indexing indicator now appears during library scans helping explain why certain media items may be missing temporarily.

Additional refinements reduce playback failures provide clearer messages for missing codecs prevent unnamed playlists fix a crash during queue edits and resolve minor display glitches. These adjustments matter for an application positioned as the default player on Windows 11.

Why does dissatisfaction remain?

The improvements leave core performance concerns untouched. Independent tests reported by Windows Latest found the modern app using roughly 377 MB of RAM at idle versus about 103 MB for the older player while also requiring more time to launch local video files.

Such results look poor for contemporary software since basic local playback should be straightforward. When the newer application underperforms compared with the Windows 7 era release something fundamental appears off track.

Codec support adds further irritation. HEVC or H.265 files common from recent phones often require Microsoft paid HEVC Video Extensions from the Store at a cost of 0.99 dollars. Patent licensing explains the fee yet the experience frustrates users who record on modern devices then face an extra charge to view content in the built in player.

Free options such as VLC or MPV handle these formats without extra purchases. Windows 11 version 24H2 also dropped native AC-3 audio support affecting Dolby Digital playback. The preview signals ongoing work on Media Player yet faster lighter operation and reduced dependence on paid add ons will be needed to satisfy users.