Windows 11’s February 2025 Optional Updates Are Here

Microsoft released yesterday the February optional updates for all supported versions of Windows 11 and Windows 10. Windows 11 users will get the same minor new features that Microsoft previously made available for Insiders on the Release Preview ring, including the ability to share files directly from a jump list on the taskbar.

The KB5052093 patch is available for Windows 11 version 24H2, and the KB5052094 update can be installed for users still on Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2. You can find the main new changes in these two updates below:

Taskbar jumplists: You can now share files directly from a jump list on the taskbar.

Windows Spotlight: Users can now hover over a background image or click the “Learn about this picture” icon at the lower right area of the desktop to learn more about it.

Lock screen wallpaper: Clicking the “Like” icon on the lock screen will display more information about the image.

Game Pass ad in Settings: Insiders who are signed to their PCs with their Microsoft accounts may see a new referral card for a PC Game Pass subscription on the Settings home page. They can use it to invite friends and family to try PC Game Pass for free.

Narrator scan mode: Insiders can try new functions to go to the text after a link (n), jump to the start of an item (,), jump to the end of an item (.), or quickly access a list on a web page or in a document (l).

File Explorer: You can now snooze or turn off the “Start backup” reminder in the File Explorer address bar. This only applies if you are not already backing up your files and folder.

Camera app (24H2 only): A new multi-app camera feature allows multiple apps to access the camera stream simultaneously. This can be used for providing video streaming for both a sign language interpreter and the end audience at the same time.

Settings app (22H2 Enterprise and Education editions only): On managed PCs, a new home page will show new cards detailing device information and the accessibility features available on the device. Commercial customers using their Microsoft account on their managed PC will also see a new card showing all the Microsoft account types that are in use on the device.

For Windows 10 users, the KB5052077 patch is also available for the version 22H2 of the OS. This update adds support for DST changes in Paraguay, and it brings Country and Operator Settings Asset (COSA) profiles up to date for certain mobile operators.