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Let's face it: most monthly Windows 11 patches are ho-hum. They usually focus on bug fixes and security updates, with the occasional new feature sprinkled in. The February 2026 update, however, looks significant, introducing several new features that will change how users interact with the operating system.
Also: 5 Windows apps I always install first on a new PC - and they're free to download
While the update won't officially roll out until February 10, Microsoft has already released Preview Update KB5074105 to Windows Insiders. This early patch includes the same features and fixes that'll arrive next Tuesday. Below is a breakdown of the major new features and fixes coming with the update, available for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2.
If you're interested in trying out the preview build, ZDNET Contributing Writer Lance Whitney has a detailed guide explaining how to join Microsoft's Windows Insider Program.
1. Cross Device Resume expansion
Lenovo ThinkPad P1 (Gen 8) Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET
Cross Device Resume was first introduced back in May 2025, allowing users to start a task on an Android phone, and seamlessly pick it up on their PC -- similar to Apple's Handoff tool. With this update, Microsoft is expanding the feature.
Cross Device Resume now works with Spotify playback, Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, and browsing sessions from the Vivo Browser app. Additionally, users with Honor, Oppo, Samsung, Vivo, or Xiaomi phones can work on online files opened via the Copilot app.
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