Microsoft released its September 2026 Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11, focusing on versions 26H1 and 25H2/24H2. Key features include:
- Taskbar customization for versions 25H2 and 24H2, allowing users to choose the taskbar's location and size.
- Faster Windows Search with options to hide web and Microsoft Store suggestions.
- Touch scrolling support in the "Recommended" section of File Explorer.
- Start Menu customization options for size and visibility of sections.
- Stability improvements for Microsoft Teams and Outlook on Arm64 PCs.
For version 26H1, updates include:
- Improved app search and Settings relevance in Windows Search.
- Voice Isolation technology in Voice Access.
- Updated taskbar notification badges and Weather widget display on the Lock Screen.
- New gesture controls for Precision Touchpads.
- Enhanced Sign-in Security supporting peripheral fingerprint sensors.
- Optimized Windows Update progression calculations and clean-up logic.
- Power settings allowing users to set energy saver activation thresholds.
Microsoft is using AI to identify vulnerabilities, with 997 Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures reported, including one actively exploited vulnerability (CVE-2026-81963). Windows 11 version 26H2 has been made available to Insiders, with a public rollout expected next month.