Windows 11 Could Finally Let You Control Privacy Permissions for Specific Win32 Apps

Windows 11 might finally be closing on one biggest privacy gaps. A new option spotted in Experimental Build 26340.9212 lets users manage permissions for individual Win32 apps.

Win32 apps could finally get their individual privacy control permissions

The change was spotted by X user Jakub, who found separate camera and microphone controls for Win32 apps (via Neowin). Other permissions reportedly include Location and Voice activation. That’s interesting because Windows 11 currently handles Win32 permissions differently.

Microsoft Store apps can receive individual controls, while traditional desktop apps have generally shared permission settings. That setup means allowing microphone access for one desktop app could also expose it to other Win32 apps. However, the spotted control settings would finally give users much better control.

Image credit: X/@jakub25050

Microsoft has not confirmed the feature will ship

There is an important catch, though. Build 26340.9212 belongs to Windows 11’s Experimental Insider channel, and Microsoft did not list these privacy controls in its official release notes. The option also appears to be rolling out gradually. Some Insiders reportedly can’t see it despite running the same build.

That makes the feature’s final form uncertain. Microsoft could change the implementation, expand testing, or remove it before a public Windows 11 build.

All that said, it seems Microsoft is reconsidering how desktop applications handle sensitive permissions. Giving users control over camera, microphone, location, and other access could make Windows privacy settings considerably more useful.

Have you spotted the feature yet? If yes, do let us know what you think of it in the comments below.