On September 9, 2025, Microsoft will initiate the rollout of its Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, ushering in a suite of security enhancements, performance improvements, and a handful of new features designed to elevate user experience. Among the highlights of this release is a revamped homepage for the Recall app, which aims to streamline user interaction by providing easy access to search functionalities and recent activities. Additionally, the Click to Do application will now feature an interactive tutorial tailored for Copilot+ PCs, ensuring users can navigate its capabilities with ease.
Windows 11 new features coming in September 2025
Microsoft’s approach to deploying these enhancements is gradual, meaning that users may experience a staggered rollout of features. Some improvements will be contingent on specific hardware requirements, while others may be restricted to particular markets.
1. Redesigned homepage for the Recall app
The Recall app’s new homepage design enhances usability by facilitating quick access to search options and recent activities. A navigation page, reminiscent of the Microsoft Store app, allows users to interact with their snapshots and utilize the Click to Do feature seamlessly.
2. Interactive tutorial for Click to Do
This update introduces an interactive tutorial for Click to Do, featuring a combination of text and images to guide users through the application. This tutorial will automatically launch upon the first use of the feature but can also be accessed from the Click to Do menu.
3. Clock in Notification Center
In a nod to familiarity, the Notification Center in Windows 11 will now display a clock with seconds, similar to its predecessor, Windows 10. While this feature is not enabled by default, users can easily activate it through the Settings menu under Time & language.
4. Grid view for photos on Windows Search
Windows Search will also undergo a transformation, showcasing photo results in a grid view format. Users will be notified if search results are limited while the system is indexing content. Additionally, a redesigned Widgets board will feature a left pane for easier navigation, allowing users to explore multiple dashboards available through the Microsoft Store.
5. Redesigned Windows Hello surfaces
The September update will bring a significant redesign to Windows Hello components, modernizing the visuals encountered during authentication processes. Users will notice new elements and animations that enhance the sign-in experience.
6. Settings app changes
Improvements to the Settings app include the expansion of an AI agent designed to help users quickly locate and modify system settings. Initially available only on Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon processors, this feature will now extend to those using Intel and AMD AI processors. Furthermore, a new “Recent activity” option will log requests for text and image generation from third-party applications.
7. Task Manager with better CPU metrics
The Task Manager will receive updates that provide more consistent processor usage metrics, aligning with industry standards. Users can still access legacy metrics through the Details tab.
8. Windows Backup for Organizations
Commercial customers will gain access to the Windows Backup for Organizations feature, which offers enterprise-grade backup and restore capabilities, facilitating seamless transitions between devices.
9. File Explorer tweaks
File Explorer will see enhancements such as dividers in the context menu to better organize top-level icons. The Home page will also display user activity through the Microsoft 365 Live Personal Card for those signed in with work or school accounts.
While these updates promise to enrich the user experience, Microsoft has indicated that additional features, including a new “Your Device Info” card and further legacy Control Panel functionalities, are slated for future updates. Users can anticipate these enhancements in upcoming cumulative updates, currently available in preview form.
More resources
For those eager to delve deeper, a wealth of how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips are available to help users maximize their experience with Windows 11 and 10.
