check before: 2026-05-01
Product:
Microsoft 365 Apps, Windows
Platform:
Education, Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
Admin impact
Links:
Details:
The April 2026 non-security preview update is now available for Windows 11, versions 26H1, 25H2, and 24H2. Information about the contents of this update is available from the release notes, which are accessible from the Windows 11 update history page. To learn more about the different types of monthly quality updates, see Windows monthly updates explained.
Looking to explore upcoming features and improvements in Windows 11? Check out the Windows roadmap. It includes what's coming to the Windows Insider Program, what's gradually rolling out, and what's generally available.
Highlights for the Windows 11, version 25H2 update:
Xbox mode is now available on Windows 11 PCs, including laptops, desktops, and tablets. Xbox mode provides a streamlined, full-screen interface that places games front and center while minimizing background activity. You can enter Xbox mode from the Xbox app, Game Bar settings, or by pressing the Windows logo key + F11.
You can now experience haptic feedback on supported input devices when performing certain actions, such as aligning objects in PowerPoint, snapping or resizing windows. Haptic feedback can be managed in Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse, Touchpad, or Pen > Haptic signals.
Enterprise State Roaming (ESR) can now be managed through Windows Backup for Organizations policies, simplifying configuration for IT administrators. To learn more, see Enterprise State Roaming.
This update adds support for a dynamic app removal list to the "Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages" policy for Windows Enterprise and Education. Administrators can remove additional MSIX/APPX apps by specifying package family names using Group Policy. For more information, see Policy-based in-box app removal.
This update improves the performance of launching startup apps after starting your device (apps listed under Settings > Apps > Startup).
For instructions on how to install this update, see the KB for your operating system listed below:
Windows 11, version 26H1: KB5083806
Windows 11, versions 25H2 and 24H2: KB5083631
Note: With recent and upcoming Windows updates over the next few months, a limited number of consumer and business devices might experience one additional restart during installation. This one-time restart occurs after a Secure Boot certificate update is applied as part of the Secure Boot update process.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2026-05-01
updated:
2026-05-01
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS Preperations
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MS Urgency
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MS workload name
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summary for non-techies**
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Direct effects for Operations**
Increased Restart Frequency
Users may experience an additional restart during installation due to Secure Boot certificate updates, leading to potential disruption in workflow.
- roles: End Users, IT Administrators
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/windows-secure-boot-certificate-expiration-and-ca-updates-7ff40d33-95dc-4c3c-8725-a9b95457578e
Performance Issues
New updates may introduce unforeseen performance issues, affecting the speed and responsiveness of applications, particularly startup apps.
- roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/help/5083631
Compatibility Problems
Updates may cause compatibility issues with existing applications or hardware, leading to user frustration and potential downtime.
- roles: End Users, Application Developers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/configuration/policy-based-inbox-app-removal/policy-based-inbox-app-removal?tabs=intune
User Experience Changes
Introduction of new features like Xbox mode and haptic feedback may confuse users unfamiliar with these functionalities, impacting their productivity.
- roles: End Users, Training Coordinators
- references: https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2025/11/21/full-screen-experience-expands-to-more-windows-11-pc-form-factors-for-windows-insiders/
Policy Management Complexity
Changes in Enterprise State Roaming management may complicate existing IT policies, requiring additional training and adjustments for IT staff.
- roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/configuration/windows-backup/catalog-esr?pivots=windows-11
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
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Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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