Microsoft is making it easier for Windows 11 users to manage updates. The latest Windows 11 update, released in July 2026, introduces a new calendar tool that allows users to pause updates indefinitely. This feature, part of the July Patch Tuesday update, also brings a powerful "Point-in-time Restore" system recovery feature.

The new Windows Update changes allow users to pause updates for up to 35 days. However, the catch is that users must manually re-pause updates if they wish to extend this period beyond 35 days.

Key features and improvements in this update include:

* **Point-in-time Restore for Windows:** A flexible recovery system that automatically creates restore points, including settings, files, and apps, to help users quickly roll back their PC to a previous working state, simplifying troubleshooting. * **Windows Update Enhancements:** A new calendar experience in Windows Update Settings allows users to pause updates for up to 35 days and extend the pause by selecting a new end date. * **Widgets Improvements:** A quieter and more focused Widgets experience with minimized notifications and taskbar badges by default. Users can customize Widgets settings for a more personalized experience, with improved reliability and responsiveness. * **Accessibility Features:** Enhancements to screen tinting to reduce eye strain and improve readability, along with improved zoom increments and settings management in Magnifier. * **File Explorer Updates:** Quick actions like "Open file location" and "Ask Copilot" now appear on hover for files in File Explorer Home, with improved compatibility for work and school accounts. The update also addresses issues with renaming items and improves overall File Explorer responsiveness. * **Bluetooth Enhancements:** Improved reliability and performance for Bluetooth devices, including better synchronization of microphone mute states, enhanced accessory compatibility (AirPods, Beats Studio Pro), and improved stability with certain manufacturer drivers. * **Voice Access and Voice Typing:** Now available in French, German, and Spanish, with real-time text correction for grammar, punctuation, and recognition errors. * **General Performance and Reliability:** Improvements to the shutdown process for Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), enhanced reliability for explorer.exe, and better compatibility with third-party credential providers.

Users can download this update through Windows Settings or the Microsoft Update Catalog.