Microsoft is rolling out the Windows 11 August 2026 update (KB5101684) as an optional preview ahead of its full deployment on Patch Tuesday, August 11, 2026. This is the kind of release that fixes long-standing frustrations rather than introducing flashy new features, and it includes changes that directly respond to user complaints about AI bloat and limited security options.
The update arrives as builds 26200.8973 for Windows 11 25H2 and 26100.8973 for 24H2. While some features will reach devices gradually through Microsoft’s Controlled Feature Rollout, the core improvements are substantial.
Uninstalling AI components on Copilot+ PCs#
One of the most requested changes in this update is finally here: you can now uninstall AI models from Copilot+ PCs.
For months, users have complained that AI features like Recall, Copilot sidebar, and various on-device intelligence panels take up storage and system resources with no clear way to remove them. The August update adds this ability directly through Windows Setup and Settings, giving users actual control over which AI components stay on their machines.
This does not mean a single “turn off all AI” switch just yet. Microsoft is implementing this one component at a time, starting with the most resource intensive models. However, it signals a shift in Microsoft’s approach to AI on Windows: making it opt in rather than mandatory.
Windows Hello ESS support for external fingerprint readers#
Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS) has been praised for its strong cryptographic security, but it was limited to devices with built-in fingerprint sensors. With KB5101684, ESS now works with external USB fingerprint readers.
ESS uses stronger encryption and hardware-bound keys than standard Windows Hello, making it significantly harder for attackers to bypass or extract credentials. Until now, that protection was only available on devices with internal sensors, and many desktop users were stuck with less secure options when using external biometric peripherals.
This change is especially relevant for security conscious users and enterprises deploying Windows 11 on desktops or in environments where external biometric readers are the norm.
New touch gestures and improved controls#
Microsoft is adding new touchpad gestures to Windows 11 through this update, though exact details of which gestures are included are still rolling out through CFR. Early reports indicate the gestures focus on window management and workspace navigation, similar to improvements seen on macOS over the last few years.
Additionally, the update brings refinements to touch interactions across the system, including smoother scrolling behavior and improved responsiveness when using touchscreens with Windows 11 apps.
Voice Isolation for Voice Access#
If you use Voice Access to control Windows hands free, this update adds Voice Isolation to filter out background noise during voice commands. This is useful in noisy environments think open offices, coffee shops, or busy households where background sound previously interfered with command recognition.
Other notable fixes#
Beyond the headline features, KB5101684 includes improvements across several areas:
- File Explorer: Fixes for file selection behavior, folder navigation issues, and stability improvements when handling large library collections.
- Windows Search: Improved indexing behavior and reduced false results when searching for recently modified files.
- Widgets and Start menu: Various UI fixes and reduced flickering when opening the Widgets panel.
- Windows Update: Fixes for update download stalls and improved error messaging when updates fail.
- Accessibility: Improvements to Narrator, Magnifier, and Color Filters.
- Power management: Better battery optimization for laptops and improved sleep/resume reliability.
How to install the August 2026 update#
You have three options depending on how soon you want the update:
Wait for Patch Tuesday (recommended): The update will roll out automatically on August 11, 2026. Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
Install the optional preview now: Navigate to Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options → Optional updates. KB5101684 should be listed there starting August 6.
Release Preview Channel: If you’re enrolled in the Windows Insider Program and have the Release Preview Channel enabled, you’ll receive this update automatically.
The bigger picture#
This release matters because it shows Microsoft actually listening to user feedback in meaningful ways. Giving users the ability to remove AI models they don’t use, expanding Windows Hello ESS to external sensors, and addressing long standing bugs across File Explorer and Windows Update are exactly the kinds of improvements that make Windows 11 feel more mature.
The fact that some features arrive through Controlled Feature Rollouts means your experience may vary in the coming weeks, but the direction is clear: more control, better security options, and fewer forced features.