Microsoft has released the August 2026 cumulative update for Windows 11 version 26H1, bringing the operating system to OS Build 28000.2704. The update, identified as KB5121000, was released on August 11 and combines the latest security fixes with several non-security improvements that were previously introduced through July’s preview updates.
Although KB5121000 is primarily a monthly security update, it also delivers several useful changes to the Windows 11 experience. These include improvements related to accessibility, Widgets, Windows Update, Secure Boot, TPM reporting, and Windows AI components on compatible Copilot+ PCs.
In this guide, we will look at the new Windows 11 26H1 August 2026 features, what has changed in KB5121000, and how to install the update.
What Is Windows 11 26H1 KB5121000?
KB5121000 is the August 2026 cumulative update for Windows 11 version 26H1. Microsoft lists it as OS Build 28000.2704.
The update includes:
- Latest August 2026 security fixes
- Non-security improvements from the July 2026 updates
- Accessibility improvements
- A redesigned and quieter Widgets experience
- The ability to pause Windows Updates for up to 35 days
- Secure Boot certificate deployment improvements
- TPM maintenance reporting improvements
- Updates to Windows AI components on Copilot+ PCs
- Removal of the Drop Tray experience
Microsoft says the update incorporates features and quality improvements from KB5101649, released July 14, and KB5101681, released as a preview on July 28.
New Features in Windows 11 26H1 August 2026 Update
The August 2026 update brings several useful changes to Windows 11 26H1, including accessibility improvements, a quieter Widgets experience, and more control over Windows Update. Here are the main features users should know about.
1. Screen Tint Accessibility Feature
One of the more noticeable additions is the new Screen tint accessibility feature.
Screen tint allows users to apply a color overlay across the entire display. Users can select from preset tint options and adjust the intensity according to their preference.
This can be useful for people who find certain display colors uncomfortable or want to customize the appearance of the screen for easier viewing.
Microsoft introduced the feature through the July preview update and included it in the August KB5121000 release.
You can find accessibility-related display options under:
Settings → Accessibility
2. A Quieter Widgets Experience
Microsoft is also changing how the Windows 11 Widgets experience behaves.
The updated Widgets experience is designed to reduce unnecessary interruptions and make the feature less distracting.
Some of the changes include:
- Widgets no longer automatically open when you hover over them.
- Notifications and taskbar badges are minimized by default.
- The Widgets dashboard becomes the default starting experience.
- Users can customize notification and display settings.
- Dashboard icons can show the number of alerts.
- Badges can automatically clear after leaving a dashboard.
- Reliability and responsiveness have been improved.
These changes make Widgets less intrusive while still keeping information easily accessible.
3. Windows Update Can Be Paused for Up to 35 Days
Another useful change is the new Windows Update pause calendar.
Windows 11 users can now choose a specific date when updates should resume, with the pause period supporting up to 35 days.
Instead of simply selecting a fixed pause period, users can choose an end date from the Windows Update settings.
Go to:
Settings → Windows Update → Pause updates
Microsoft notes that updates automatically resume when the selected pause period ends. Users can also extend the pause as long as the new end date remains within the supported 35-day window.
This can be particularly useful if you are working on an important project, traveling, or simply want to avoid an unexpected restart at an inconvenient time.
4. Drop Tray Has Been Removed
There is also a change that removes a previously introduced feature rather than adding one.
Microsoft has removed the Drop Tray experience, previously known as Drag Tray, from devices where it was available.
The associated setting under:
Settings → System → Multitasking
has also been removed.
Microsoft says it will continue evaluating the experience and exploring possible improvements in the future. This change was added to the KB5121000 release notes on August 17, 2026.
5. Secure Boot Improvements
KB5121000 includes additional improvements related to Secure Boot certificates.
Microsoft has added more high-confidence device targeting information to increase the number of eligible devices that can automatically receive new Secure Boot certificates.
Certificate deployment through Windows Update will continue across supported PCs and non-managed business devices in the coming months.
For most users, this process is designed to happen automatically without requiring manual configuration.
6. Improved TPM Maintenance Reporting
The update also improves TPM maintenance reporting.
Microsoft says KB5121000 improves the accuracy of reporting for the EK certificate status associated with TPM maintenance.
TPM, or Trusted Platform Module, is an important hardware-based security component used by Windows for features such as device security and authentication.
This is mainly a behind-the-scenes improvement, so most users will not notice a visible interface change.
7. Windows AI Components Updated
Windows 11 26H1 also receives updates to several Windows AI components.
Microsoft lists the following components:
- Image Search
- Content Extraction
- Semantic Analysis
- Settings Model
These components are updated to version 1.2605.856.0 as part of the release.
However, these AI component updates are applicable to Windows Copilot+ PCs. They do not install on standard Windows PCs or Windows Server systems.
Security Improvements in KB5121000
Security remains one of the main reasons to install the August 2026 update.
KB5121000 contains the latest security fixes for Windows 11 26H1 in addition to the feature and quality improvements. Microsoft recommends keeping supported Windows installations up to date to receive security protections.
The update also includes a servicing stack update that improves the reliability of the Windows update installation process.
Windows 11 26H1 KB5121000 Build Number
After installing the August 2026 update, Windows 11 version 26H1 should show:
Version: Windows 11 26H1
Update: KB5121000
OS Build: 28000.2704
Release Date: August 11, 2026
You can check your Windows version and build number by pressing:
Windows + R → type winver → Enter
Alternatively, go to:
Settings → System → About
How to Install Windows 11 26H1 August 2026 Update
For most users, KB5121000 should be installed automatically through Windows Update.
To manually check for the update:
- Open Settings.
- Select Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- If KB5121000 is available, allow Windows to download and install it.
- Restart the computer if Windows asks you to do so.
Microsoft also provides the update through the Microsoft Update Catalog for users who need to install it manually.
Should You Install KB5121000?
Yes, installing KB5121000 is recommended for supported Windows 11 26H1 devices.
This is not a major visual overhaul of Windows 11, but it combines important security fixes with several quality-of-life improvements.
The most noticeable changes are the new Screen tint accessibility option, quieter Widgets, and more flexible Windows Update pause controls. Other improvements, such as Secure Boot and TPM changes, work mostly in the background.
If you are already running Windows 11 26H1, there is generally little reason to avoid the update unless you have a specific compatibility concern.
Final Thoughts
The Windows 11 26H1 August 2026 update (KB5121000) is a relatively focused release rather than a completely redesigned version of Windows.
Microsoft has concentrated on security, accessibility, Windows Update controls, system reliability, and smaller usability improvements. The new Screen tint feature and quieter Widgets experience should be useful for everyday users, while Secure Boot, TPM, and AI component updates provide more technical improvements behind the scenes.
For Windows 11 26H1 users, keeping the system updated with KB5121000 is a sensible way to receive the latest security fixes and improvements without waiting for a future major Windows release.
FAQ
What is Windows 11 KB5121000?
KB5121000 is the August 2026 cumulative update for Windows 11 version 26H1. It brings the OS to Build 28000.2704 and includes security fixes, quality improvements, and features from July’s preview updates.
What new features does Windows 11 26H1 KB5121000 add?
The update includes the Screen tint accessibility feature, a quieter Widgets experience, the ability to pause Windows Updates for up to 35 days, Secure Boot improvements, TPM reporting improvements, and updated AI components for compatible Copilot+ PCs.
Can Windows 11 updates be paused for 35 days?
Yes. Windows Update now provides a calendar-based option that allows supported updates to be paused for up to 35 days.
What happened to Drop Tray in Windows 11 26H1?
Microsoft removed the Drop Tray experience, previously called Drag Tray, from devices where it was available. The related Multitasking setting was also removed.
What is the Windows 11 26H1 August 2026 build number?
After installing KB5121000, Windows 11 26H1 is updated to OS Build 28000.2704.
How do I get KB5121000?
Open Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates. KB5121000 is available through Windows Update and can also be obtained through the Microsoft Update Catalog.
