On this second Tuesday of October, Microsoft has rolled out its monthly quality updates for all supported versions of Windows 11. This occasion marks a significant milestone as it introduces the inaugural Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11 version 26H2, while simultaneously bidding farewell to version 24H2 (Home and Pro), which is set to exit support this month.
Details of the Update
Both Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2 will receive cumulative update KB5127648 today, elevating the systems to Windows 11 build 26100.9711, 26200.9711, or 26300.9711, respectively. This update brings a host of new features and enhancements, including:
- Enhancements to File Explorer, particularly in the preview pane, Home page, and Details pane.
- Support for Emoji 17.0.
- A new Tips widget to assist users.
- Personalization improvements, such as support for DIB image files as wallpaper and numerous fixes.
- An Accessibility setting that allows all apps to open maximized when enabled.
- Improvements to precision touchpad functionality, including single-finger scrolling and automatic scrolling.
- Enhanced configuration options for the Copilot key, allowing remapping to the Right Ctrl or Context Menu key.
- Upgrades to the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), featuring remote management plug-in support.
- Changes to Windows Backup, with PC-to-PC migration no longer supported.
Meanwhile, Windows 11 version 26H1, currently available exclusively on Arm-based PCs launched this year with the latest Qualcomm and RTX Spark silicon, will receive cumulative update KB5127646. This update will advance the system to Windows 11 build 28000.3231 and introduce the following features and changes:
- A redesigned Taskbar that allows for positioning at the top, left, right, or bottom, with options for small and normal sizes.
- A revamped Start menu, where the Recommended section has been renamed to Recent, and the three main display areas can now be configured independently.
- A new Windows Search experience featuring a simplified home page (without Search highlights) and the option to disable web and Store suggestions in search results.
- Performance improvements in File Explorer and added touch scrolling support.
- Modernized progress indicator updates across Windows 11 for a more consistent user experience.
- Administrator Protection is now available, although it is not enabled by default.
- Improvements to the Get Started app, including features for app installation, site pinning, and theme personalization for Windows 11.
