Feb 24, 2026
3 min read
Windows 11 26H2 is an important update for all Windows users.Among other things, it brings improvements to Explorer, camera controls, and AI.Here is the summary.
- Windows 11 26H2 will reportedly arrive as a hotfix package in late September to early October 2026 instead of a full OS reinstall.
- The update includes "Request Copilot" as a Windows search option with AI-enhanced functionality and File Explorer integration via a dockable sidebar.
- Major improvements include redesigned context menu, Run window with modern WinUI, Dutch support for voice access.and extension of support period by 24-36 months
Windows 11 26H2 follows the service pack pattern and is technically based on version 25H2.A service pack is a small update tool that does not begin to install full functionality.Microsoft uses this process to unlock previously available but disabled features that were installed on a system with monthly updates.
The enablement package basically changes the Windows version identifier and activates these features collectively without replacing system files entirely or affecting existing applications and settings.The installation process takes only a few minutes and is technically more like a cumulative update than a classic feature update.
The 26H2 update changes the version mark without reinstallation and extends the support period to 24 months for the consumer edition and 36 months for the enterprise edition.Functional changes have reached the system through monthly updates for 25H2 and then brought constant to 26H2.
The significant performance improvement is especially noticeable when migrating from older versions such as 23H2.The release is scheduled for the popular time slot of late September to early October 2026.Those who take part in the Insider Program will naturally receive new features in advance in the form of a test version.
Search based on the copilot in the taskbar
The familiar Windows search has been replaced by the "Ask Pilot" option.This can be enabled in the taskbar settings under "Personalization".Once enabled, a unified search window opens with direct access to apps, files, and program settings.The technical basis remains the Windows Search Index.
Copilot also clarifies user intent and matches search terms with appropriate settings, such as brightness and display parameters.The interface does not display Bing pop-ups and responds more directly.
The latest extension includes Copilot Vision, which embeds file and image uploads, as well as content from open applications.Without activation, the familiar Windows Search taskbar remains unchanged.Copilot cannot access local data unless files are explicitly transferred.
File explorer with modified context structure
File Explorer received a restructured context logic with nested menus to reduce the number of visible entries.Actions such as compression, path copying or image rotation are grouped under "File Management".
Image-related functions, such as assigning a background or rotation, are also grouped.Compression formats can be selected in a separate submenu.OneDrive-related options have been moved to a separate area.Individual commands such as Ask Copilot, Edit with Clipchamp, Edit in Notepad, Edit in Paint, and Microsoft Photos still appear multiple times.context, does not occur through ML.
At the same time, Microsoft is working on a black display for the "Properties" tab in File Explorer.It's also testing Explorer's background loading from the startup window, which can be turned off in the folder options.
Copilot integration in File Explorer
In addition, there will be deep integration of Copilot into the file explorer.The system will have a side panel that can be docked next to the information display and the display with the option of removing it in a separate window.Unlike the current sending of files to the Copilot application, Copilot works directly in the file system and enables dialog-based interactions with folders and files.
The Run window, which has remained unchanged for decades, will get a WinUI-based version with a mica background, a larger input field, and an overview of commands above the input.It can be enabled in the advanced section of system settings.After enabling, the system will hide the classic version.
The new interface displays matching apps, including images, as you type.Meanwhile, Microsoft is testing a dark mode for the classic Run window.Both versions are compatible as options.
Return the agenda to the information center
The agenda display returns to Notification Center and integrates with Outlook.After signing in, appointments are automatically synced and appear in the Win + N calendar view.The implementation uses WebView2 and takes up more than 100MB of RAM.View allows you to join the meeting and view the current meeting in real time.One button completes the Copilot interface.
System monitor as a built-in security feature
The Sysinternals System Monitor is included directly in Windows 11. The component comes from the external Sysinternals suite and records special events for threats.Events are stored in the Windows event database and can be filtered through an additional file.It does not need to be activated through Windows features or the command line.No reboot required.
Camera settings and emoji update
The camera settings have been expanded to include pan and tilt controls for supported hardware.This option is in the settings under "Bluetooth and devices" in the basic camera settings.The interface now also shows an inconsistency in adjusting the window.At the same time, Microsoft introduced Emoji version 16.0 with new icons.
Game mode with a full-screen interface on Xbox
An optional full-screen mode replaces the desktop interface with a controller-focused control panel based on existing Xbox apps.It can be enabled in game settings.The mode reduces background processes and saves system resources, which affects game performance and battery life.
A reboot will activate the new interface.You can switch back to the desktop using the Windows button. For efficient operation, it is recommended to close it before rebooting.
An AI agent works on the system
The AI components of the settings provide an experimental field for agent actions.Apps like Copilot automate tasks related to organizing files, scheduling, or sending emails.This function remains disabled until you enable it and use it.
Bug fixes and detail improvements
Current builds of Windows also fix visual bugs with the auto-hidden taskbar, the unexpected rebuilding of desktop icons, and display issues in Windows security login windows.File Explorer fixes improve accessibility, allow custom folder names, and add tooltips to favorites.
Fixed Address app hangs during file operations with OneDrive and Dropbox, as well as configuration issues for Outlook saving PST files to OneDrive.Voice Access expanded language support to include Dutch.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT, translated and localized from German.
