Forum Discussion
Can't go from Windows 11 dev channel to release version
FeelLikePhil It is possible to start Regedit, go to 'Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsSelfHost\UI\Selection' and change the option 'UIBranch' to another value. For instance, switch from 'Dev' to 'ReleasePreview'. However, I'm sure this is not officially supported and doing so can bring some unexpected results. In other words, Microsoft seems to protect you from getting into trouble.
As far as I know, the option is only greyed out when you've selected 'Dev' earlier. There is no option to switch to maintain continuity. Since the ‘Dev’ channel gets the latest features ahead of the other two channels, Windows does not have the necessary tools to carry out the swift onboarding process. To move from one channel to another, the build of the destination channel has to be newer than the channel you are currently on. I'm afraid a clean install will be your best option.
- omarrayyanxxOct 07, 2021Copper Contributori tried that and restarted my computer, it automatically changed back to Dev again..
- G_JongeneelOct 12, 2021Brass Contributor
omarrayyanxx That's really weird. I changed the setting (reg key) and even after several reboots, it is still there and active for sure. The option 'Stop getting preview builds' says 'Queued for unenrollment' now. I guess, we have to wait and see.
- oofboiNov 25, 2021Copper Contributor
G_JongeneelRegedit says there was an error when I try changing it, any help?
- Gertjan JongeneelNov 26, 2021Brass Contributor
oofboi Did you try starting Regedit with 'Run As Administrator' option?
- anttileinonenDec 01, 2021Copper ContributorHello!
With this trick I was able to get the greyed out "leave Windows developer program" etc... to be active. I changed the dev to ´ReleasePreview´ and booted my PC. After that I was able to move the slide cursor to the right and now I am in queue to leave the dev program. I hope this trick is good later on when I could download some working stable build for official Windows 11... The upgrade assistant or media creation tool won´t work at the moment (december 2021). I have repaired computers for some years now and even yesterday I was able to correct horrible issue (audio and lan/wlan not working after client installed Windows 10 21H2 build) by offline installing a new version on top of the corrupted one with Windows 10 2004 build... So I am very disappointed in Windows 11 that you cannot do the same offline installation with it/inside it. Let´s wait and see what happens...- Eddie LeonardDec 01, 2021Iron ContributorThis will not work. You now have your PC in a bad state. The only way to leave the Dev Channel is with a clean install. You will now be stuck on the build you have currently installed.