Microsoft is rolling out Windows 11 version 26H2, the fifth major release of the operating system. Like 25H2 before it, the update ships as a small enablement package rather than a full OS upgrade, meaning installation is quick, low-risk, and shares the same platform as 24H2.
If you are already on 24H2 or 25H2, you will not see a dramatic visual overhaul on day one. Most of what makes 26H2 different has been arriving throughout 2026 via cumulative updates, with the enablement package activating version-specific features and resetting the support lifecycle to 24 months for consumer editions and 36 months for Enterprise and Education.
What you’ll need # A Copilot+ PC with a qualifying NPU (Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra 200V or later, or Ryzen AI 300 or later) Windows 11 version 24H2 or 25H2 The August 2026 cumulative update (KB5101684) installed A restart after the update — the Settings page often does not appear until after reboot If you are on a standard laptop or desktop without a Copilot+ NPU, the AI components page will likely not appear or will list nothing removable.
The Windows 11 August 2026 update (KB5101684) arrives on Patch Tuesday with a long-awaited AI uninstall option, Windows Hello ESS support for external fingerprint readers, new touch gestures, and Voice Isolation for Voice Access.
What you’ll need # Windows 11 version 23H2 or later (build 22631+) Administrator privileges on your Windows account PowerShell 5.1 or later (built into Windows 11) Basic familiarity with PowerShell and Windows Registry Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise for Group Policy features (Home users can use Registry edits) Overview # This guide disables Windows 11’s AI-powered features including Recall snapshots, Copilot assistant, and background telemetry services. You’ll reduce resource usage, improve privacy, and remove taskbar clutter while maintaining system stability.
