The April 2026 Windows non-security preview update is now available

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.