Windows 11 February 2026 update brings external Windows Hello devices, faster file navigation, and smarter voice controls
The February 2026 Windows 11 update is rolling out via the Release Preview channel with a Stable Channel deployment expected soon. It adds Enhanced Sign-in Security that supports external Windows Hello fingerprint readers, speeds up File Explorer when navigating network locations, introduces a guided Voice Access setup wizard, and adds a Wait time option for Voice Typing. Microsoft advises backing up beforehand (create a system restore point and full backup) due to ongoing update quality issues and potential uninstall difficulties from the January 2026 patch.