Microsoft has released the KB5101684 optional preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, containing 42 bug fixes along with new features,
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Microsoft has released the KB5101684 optional preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, containing 42 bug fixes along with new features, according to Microsoft's release notes. The update raises 24H2 systems to build 26100.8973 and 25H2 systems to build 26200.8973.
As an optional non-security preview update, it is not installed automatically unless the user has enabled the latest-updates option, and it previews changes coming to the August Patch Tuesday release.
Microsoft states there are currently no known issues with the update.
Immediate Fixes and Gradual RolloutSeveral fixes are available to all users immediately.
A File Explorer fix addresses an issue where files stored on a DFS mapped drive could be incorrectly treated as originating from the internet after a device started while disconnected from the network and later reconnected. This could cause the Preview Pane to display a warning that the file could harm the computer, or apply an unexpected Mark of the Web to copied files.
A mobile device management fix addresses an issue affecting newly provisioned or recovered Windows devices running versions released on or after July 14, 2026 (KB5101650). After enrollment in an MDM service such as Microsoft Intune, affected devices could remain in an incorrect noncompliant state and be unable to access corporate resources.
A storage fix resolves File History automatic backups to network shares over SMB failing with a false "invalid credentials" error. The update also includes additional Secure Boot device targeting data and improves the stability of Office applications in virtualized environments.
Several features will become available gradually after installation.
Voice Access adds Voice Isolation, which reduces interference from other speakers and background noise. Three modes are available under Voice Access settings, then Improve speech recognition:
The update also adds Korean language support for Voice Access and improves the reliability of starting the feature.
Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security now supports peripheral fingerprint sensors, extending the secure sign-in option beyond devices with built-in sensors to desktops and other Windows 11 PCs, including Copilot+ PCs.
Users plug in a supported ESS fingerprint reader and enroll through Settings, then Accounts, then Sign-in options. Microsoft notes this feature was previously disclosed in January 2026 (KB5074105) and is now beginning to roll out.
The update also allows users to remove the Image Generation AI component from supported Copilot+ PCs where it is installed.
File Explorer, Search, and Interface ChangesIn File Explorer's Details view, file sizes now display in appropriate units (KB, MB, GB) rather than kilobytes only. Middle-click to open a folder in a new tab is now supported in the address bar and Home page. The update eliminates a gray flash on load and unexpected scrolling to the top on the Home page, and improves thumbnail quality in the Recommended section.
Windows Search better handles typos and partial app names, and surfaces more relevant Settings results higher. New precision touchpad gesture controls in Settings, then Bluetooth & devices, then Touchpad, allow adjustment of scroll and zoom speed and enable accelerated scrolling.
Other interface changes include Taskbar notification badges using the Windows accent color instead of red, Weather set as the only default Lock screen widget for new users, a redesigned Start menu Account Control with a subscription status badge, Fluid Dictation off by default in Voice Typing, and a parental controls notice added during Windows Setup.
The update improves power settings reliability by applying display, sleep, hibernate, power button, sleep button, and lid-close changes to all power plans, and restores the Energy Saver threshold setting under Settings, then System, then Power & Battery.
It improves Windows Update progress calculation and post-update cleanup, system sounds in dark mode, and daylight saving time accuracy for Beirut, Casablanca, Jerusalem, and Nuuk time zones.
Additional fixes cover DHCP renewal reliability, IPPS print performance, clipboard reliability in Remote Desktop and Azure Virtual Desktop scenarios, and general explorer.exe reliability.
How to Install KB5101684As this is an optional preview update, you must select it manually unless automatic installation is enabled:
KB5101684 is now available as an optional preview for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. Some features are available immediately, while others will be enabled gradually through a staged rollout.
Not all changes will appear on your device right after installation. As an optional non-security update, you may skip it; all included fixes and features are expected to be released to all users in the August Patch Tuesday cumulative update.