Windows 11 July 2025 Update (Preview): Build 26100.4482 (KB5060829) Released

Windows 11 July 2025 Update Previews: What’s New and What to Expect

Microsoft has rolled out exciting new updates for Windows 11 as part of the upcoming July 2025 Patch Tuesday Update. This series of previews includes builds 26100.4482 (KB5060829) for version 24H2 and 22631.5545 (KB5060826) for version 23H2, now available in the Release Preview Channel.

Key Highlights of the July 2025 Updates

Build Releases: The latest previews include features like enhanced Taskbar configurations, improvements in default app settings for the European Economic Area (EEA), and a streamlined file transfer process between PCs via Windows Backup.
Mandatory Update Notice: These updates will transition into mandatory status on July 8, 2025, coinciding with the official Patch Tuesday rollout.
New Features and Fixes: The updates focus on various issues including search optimizations, authentication enhancements, and printing solutions, promising a smoother user experience.

Updated on 6/19/2025: Introduction of builds 26100.4482 and 22631.5545, heralding new features for the July 2025 Security Update.

Detailed Build Analysis

Windows 11 24H2 (Build 26100.4482) Updates

Microsoft has integrated several noteworthy enhancements in the build 26100.4482:

Default App Configurations for EEA

This update will expand the “Set default” functionality on Settings > Apps > Default apps. Compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) adds support for file types such as ftp, .svg, and more, ensuring a broader range of assignments depending on user browsers.

Windows 11 new default browser setting / Image: Microsoft

Redesigned Taskbar Icons

The Taskbar now features an option under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar to utilize smaller icons. This functionality can be customized in settings labeled “Always, ” “Never, ” or “When taskbar is full.”

Taskbar smaller icons setting / Image: Mauro Huculak

Seamless File Transfers with Windows Backup

The new PC-to-PC file transfer capability within the Windows Backup app allows users to migrate files effortlessly. This feature, while in early stages, promises fully functional file movements between machines as soon as the setup experience solidifies.

Windows Backup file transfer feature / Image: Mauro Huculak

Sharing Options and Compression Features

Windows Share has been optimized to include compression options, allowing users to select quality levels for images shared, and also provides visual previews for shared web content.

Windows Share compression option / Image: Mauro Huculak

Windows 11 23H2 (Build 22631.5545) Updates

Updates for build 22631.5545 introduce similar EEA compliance changes:

Enhanced Default App Assignments

The Set default functionality extends to more file types, ensuring more comprehensive user experience in the EEA region.

Interface and Connectivity Improvements

Several fixes focus on enhancing system stability, user authentication, and file-sharing capabilities. Patch updates aim to resolve ongoing issues with Remote Desktop Protocol and Windows Search performance.

Security Logs Management: An issue regarding excessive security logs has been addressed, improving system access.
File Sharing Enhancements: Resolved connectivity interruptions across network shares.
Performance Boosts: Improvements have been made for faster file extraction and overall responsiveness of various applications.

Patch Tuesday Installation Instructions

To receive these updates, users must join the Release Preview Channel via the Windows Insider Program settings. Users can then initiate the download through the Windows Update settings by enabling the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option.

Upcoming Patch Tuesday Release Schedule

Initial Release: The builds were initially released on June 12, 2025. Further updates occurred on June 19, 2025.
Optional Update Release: A Stable Channel preview update is expected later in June 2025. Specific release dates are pending.
Final Mandatory Update: The official security update will roll out on July 8, 2025.

Note: Updates may vary per region due to compliance and rollout schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What new features are included in the July 2025 update for Windows 11?

The July 2025 update introduces features like PC-to-PC file transfer capabilities, smaller Taskbar icons, and expanded default app options for compliance with EEA regulations.

2. How can I install the Windows 11 July 2025 update?

To install the update, you need to enroll in the Release Preview Channel of the Windows Insider Program. After enrolling, navigate to Windows Update settings to download and install the latest builds.

3. When will the updates become mandatory?

The updates will be mandatory on July 8, 2025, coinciding with the official Patch Tuesday rollout.

Source & Images