Windows 11 gets a KB5089573 update that enhances system speed.

Microsoft has launched a new optional update for Windows 11 aimed at making the system faster for daily use. The update, KB5089573, was released on May 26, 2026 for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, upgrading the system to builds 26100.8524 and 26200.8524. This update is said to deliver enhancements in quality and performance for compatible PCs, as stated by Microsoft.

The main improvement is not in a dramatic visual alteration, but in the quicker response times when launching apps, utilizing the Start Menu, searching, and accessing important sections of the interface. Microsoft claims that the update speeds up the launch of apps and essential shell features like the Start Menu, Search, and Action Center.

Windows 11 KB5089573 is designed to enhance performance.

The KB5089573 update is included in Microsoft’s non-compulsory preview bundles. It is not a required security update but includes anticipated enhancements and fixes set to be more widely available in the next monthly update.

This public update, known as Windows K2, is Microsoft’s response to criticisms about Windows 11’s performance issues, aiming to enhance the system’s responsiveness and reliability for everyday tasks.

Microsoft is attempting to address a longstanding issue with Windows 11, where users often experience delays when performing various tasks, leading to a sluggish user experience.

The update from Microsoft enhances the opening of applications and the responsiveness of features like the Start Menu, Search, and Action Center. It also brings improvements in reliability for the lock screen, login screen, File Explorer, touch gestures on touch screen devices, and changing themes in Settings.

Floating menus can show up 70% more quickly, and app opening can be up to 40% faster, as per Windows Central’s testing of the new update.

Windows 11’s new “Low Latency Profile” mode has shown real performance enhancements by speeding up flyout and app launches. Benchmark tests have demonstrated the noticeable difference in app opening times with this feature enabled versus disabled.

Not everyone will experience the benefits of the update right away, as Microsoft has implemented a phased release model for KB5089573. This means that the resources will be delivered gradually to devices in waves, rather than all at once for everyone.

Two computers may not get all the features on the same day even if they have the same update installed, as Microsoft employs this method to identify any issues before making the announcement to a wider audience.

News about audio, camera, and Task Manager updates are also available.

The KB5089573 update introduces new features, including Shared Audio that enables sharing audio from a PC with two compatible devices simultaneously using Bluetooth LE Audio. This feature allows two individuals to listen to the same content on separate headsets, provided that the hardware supports it.

Task Manager on PCs with NPU has been enhanced by Microsoft with additional columns indicating NPU usage, NPU engine, dedicated memory, and shared memory. This update enables tracking of AI-related tasks on compatible devices. Furthermore, the performance tab now showcases neural GPU mechanisms, providing a comprehensive overview of AI resource utilization.

Windows 11 introduced the Multi-App Camera feature in its camera section, enabling multiple applications to access the camera stream simultaneously. Additionally, a basic camera mode is available for troubleshooting and stability, with customization options for administrators in corporate settings.

Windows Hello, Research, and USB have been modified.

The update enhances Windows Hello functionality on the lock and login screens by giving priority to facial recognition and fingerprint scanning when they are set up and ready. Microsoft also states that it has improved the biometric service for better performance during Modern Standby.

Windows search can now locate and give importance to files with just two characters, benefiting users searching for documents, folders, or files with brief names. Additionally, the update enhances the stability of monitors connected through USB docks and hubs, particularly when resuming from sleep mode, and introduces recovery options for USB devices in case of unexpected malfunctions.

Windows will now display the User Account Control prompt in the Storage settings only when the user opts to view temporary files, instead of showing it immediately.

KB5089573 contains internal updates in Microsoft Store to enhance download speed and reduce bandwidth usage. It also includes improvements in error reporting for failed downloads due to Windows Update policies.

There is a known issue that still requires attention.

The update still contains a significant alert despite enhancements. Microsoft acknowledges an ongoing issue with installation failure error 0x800f0922 related to the May security update KB5089549.

Some devices experiencing low storage space on the EFI partition, particularly those with 10 MB or less remaining, may encounter installation issues during reboot at around 35% to 36%. This can result in Windows reversing the installation process.

Microsoft has confirmed the issue with home devices and unmanaged companies and recommends restarting the PC to apply the fix more quickly. A permanent solution will be provided in a future update.

It is best for regular users to refrain from making changes to the Windows Registry without technical expertise as it can lead to severe system issues, according to Microsoft.

How to set up KB5089573

Since it’s an optional update, not everyone will receive it as an immediate automatic installation. To install, visit:

Settings > Windows Update > Advanced Options > Additional updates

Look for the KB5089573 in the optional updates section and verify the installation. Microsoft states that the package is also available for download from the Microsoft Updates Catalog, with versions compatible with x64 and Arm64 architectures.

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