Introduction to Windows 11 May 2026 Patch Tuesday Updates
Microsoft has released Windows 11 KB5089549 and KB5087420 cumulative updates for versions 25H2/24H2 and 23H2 to fix security vulnerabilities, bugs, and add new features. These updates are mandatory as they contain the May 2026 Patch Tuesday security patches for 120 vulnerabilities discovered in previous months.
Users can install the update by going to Start > Settings > Windows Update and clicking on 'Check for Updates.' The update can also be manually downloaded and installed from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
Changes and Improvements in the Update
After installing the update, Windows 11 25H2 (KB5089549) will have its build number changed to 26200.8457, 24H2 will be changed to 26100.8457, and 23H2 (KB5087420) will be changed to 22631.7079. The update adds an Xbox mode to the desktop, allowing users to experience an Xbox console-like experience on their PC.
Additionally, the update patches issues with the taskbar and improves the reliability of Windows Hello. Other improvements include:
- Expansion of the list of archive formats that can be used in File Explorer to include uu, cpio, xar, and NuGet Packages (nupkg).
- Persistence of View and Sort preferences in folders such as Downloads and Documents when apps launch File Explorer directly to those locations.
- Removal of a white flash that could appear when opening This PC or while resizing the Details pane in dark mode.
- Improvement of the reliability of relevant explorer.exe processes so they stop after closing File Explorer windows.
Input Improvements
The update introduces haptic feedback effects on compatible input devices when performing certain actions, such as aligning objects in PowerPoint, snapping or resizing windows. These haptic signals can be turned on or off in Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse, Touchpad, or Pen > Haptic signals.
Support for additional compatible devices, including select mice such as Logitech MX Master 4, might become available as hardware partners release updates. The update also improves voice typing on the touch keyboard, making it simpler and more intuitive.
Sharing and Printing Improvements
The update renames Drag Tray to Drop Tray and moves its settings to Settings > System > Multitasking. Drop Tray now uses a smaller peek view, preventing it from opening unintentionally and making it easier to dismiss when working near the top of the screen.
A new icon has been added to show where a printer supports Windows Protected Print Mode in print settings.
Security and Performance Improvements
Administrators and Application Control for Business policy authors now have additional control over how the system processes batch files and Command Prompt (CMD) scripts. A more secure processing mode for batch files can be enabled, preventing batch files from changing during execution.
The update also improves the reliability of Windows Hello Face and Fingerprint, as well as the performance of launching startup apps after starting the device.
Microsoft Store and Font Improvements
The update reduces unexpected errors when downloading and installing apps from the Microsoft Store, including errors 0x80070057, 0x80240008, and 0x80073d28. Improvements have also been made to the Leelawadee UI font family for the Thai, Lao, Khmer, and Lontara scripts.
Conclusion and Future Updates
Microsoft is not aware of any new issues with this month's Patch Tuesday update. The company is working on a big Windows 11 2026 quality update that restores the movable taskbar and will significantly improve the performance of modern interfaces, including the right-click menu.
Microsoft also has plans to limit Copilot integration in Windows 11, reduce ads, and make the out-of-the-box experience faster with skippable Windows Updates. The update is a significant step towards improving the overall security and performance of Windows 11.
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Source: BleepingComputer