Table of Contents
Summary
- February 2026 non-security preview update is available for Windows 11 versions 26H1, 25H2, and 24H2.
- New Emoji 16.0 release includes carefully selected emojis, now accessible in the emoji panel.
- Built-in network speed test feature introduced on the taskbar, measuring various connection types.
- Users can now control pan and tilt settings for supported cameras via the Settings app.
- Sysmon functionality is added natively to Windows for enhanced system event monitoring.
Admin Impact: Low
User Impact: Medium
Release Start: 25 Feb 2026
Release End: 25 Feb 2026
Services: Windows
Category: Stay informed
Tags: Admin Action
History
2/24/2026 Item Added to Message Center
Microsoft Message
The February 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:
- The Emoji 16.0 release introduces a small, thoughtfully curated set of new emojis, one from each major category. Each emoji carries timeless symbolism and practical versatility. These new emojis now appear in the emoji panel.
- A built‑in network speed test is now available from the taskbar. You can open it from the Wi‑Fi or Cellular Quick Settings, or by right-clicking the network icon in the system tray. The speed test opens in the default browser and measures Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, and cellular connections.
- You can now control pan and tilt for supported cameras in the Settings app. The controls appear under Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras, in the “Basic settings” section for your selected camera.
- Windows now brings System Monitor (Sysmon) functionality natively to Windows. Sysmon helps you capture system events for threat detection, and you can use custom configuration files to filter the events you want to monitor. Windows writes captured events to Windows Event Log, which allows security tools and other applications to use them.
For instructions on how to install this update, see the KB for your operating system listed below:
- Windows 11, version 26H1: KB5077239
- Windows 11, versions 25H2 and 24H2: KB5077241