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

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Summary AI-generated

May 2026 non-security preview update for Windows 11 26H1/25H2/24H2 adds shared audio, enhanced NPU metrics, multi-app camera, custom user folder names, and may require an extra restart for Secure Boot.

Suggested actions AI-generated

  • Review release notes
  • Install update
  • Inform users of new features
  • Prepare for possible Secure Boot-related restart

Written by Azure OpenAI (gpt-4.1) from the text of the post below. It can be incomplete or wrong; the original post is authoritative.

Original post from Microsoft

The May 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:
  • Shared audio enables two people to listen to the same audio from a single Windows 11 PC at the same time.
  • Task Manager now provides enhanced visibility into NPU usage, including new metrics and AI activity insights.
  • Multi‑App Camera allows multiple apps to access the camera simultaneously. Basic Camera mode enables simplified camera functionality, useful for troubleshooting when your camera is not working correctly
  • You can now choose a custom name for your user folder on the Device Name page during Windows setup. User folder names must follow standard Windows naming requirements.

For instructions on how to install this update, see the KB for your operating system listed below:
• Windows 11, version 26H1: KB5089570
• Windows 11, versions 25H2 and 24H2: KB5089573

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.