Update Overview and Availability
Microsoft has released the KB5089573 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2. This optional update, part of the company’s non-security preview schedule, introduces 30 changes focused on performance and reliability improvements. IT administrators and users can test these modifications before they are included in next month’s Patch Tuesday rollout. The update can be installed via the Microsoft Update Catalog or through Windows Update settings, where users will be prompted to manually confirm installation unless the automatic update option is enabled.
Performance and Security Enhancements
The update accelerates app launch times and improves core shell experiences including the Start menu, Search, and Action Center. Windows Hello sign-in behavior receives notable improvements: face or fingerprint authentication now becomes the default method when available, though the system will revert to PIN if users select it three times consecutively. Additional reliability fixes target File Explorer, sign-in and lock screens, theme changes in Settings, and touch gestures on touchscreen devices. Performance when resuming from Modern Standby is also enhanced, while unexpected blocks during Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security authentication are reduced.
Additional Features and Critical Updates
New capabilities include shared audio, allowing two people to listen to the same audio simultaneously on a single PC. The update also improves CPU speed display in Task Manager for virtual machines, enhances battery life by preventing apps from keeping the sensor hub powered on, and addresses Human Interface Device stack battery drain issues. A controlled rollout of new Secure Boot certificates begins with this update, replacing the original 2011 certificates set to expire in late June. Microsoft reminds users that devices will receive the new certificates only after demonstrating sufficient successful update signals, maintaining a phased approach to this critical security transition.
Source: BleepingComputer
