Windows Central Insider
Microsoft is now rolling out a new Windows 11 update that brings with it a number of quality of life and foundational OS improvements that will make using your PC feel faster, with better responsiveness, and more reliability. The update, dubbed KB5089573, is now generally available as an optional OS update.
KB5089573 is notable as it's the first OS update designed to make Windows 11 faster under Microsoft's special Windows K2 effort, which is seeing the company focus on addressing top criticisms around the OS and deliver foundational improvements.
Mentioned in the changelog for this release is general OS performance improvements, which "accelerates app launch and core shell experiences such as Start menu, Search, and Action Center." Additionally, Microsoft says that this update also "improves Windows reliability on the sign-in and lock screens, in File Explorer, when using touch gestures on touchscreen devices, and when changing themes in Settings."
Low Latency Profile improvements are a genuine upgrade
These performance and reliability improvements are not nothing, either. Microsoft has been testing these changes with Insiders for a number of weeks, and testers have noted some genuine performance gains with these improvements enabled.
In our own reporting, we understand that these new performance improvements are called "Low Latency Profile" and involve maxing out CPU frequency in very short bursts to speed up actions, and can result in system flyouts appearing up to 70% faster, and app launches up to 40% faster. With the performance improvements enabled, Windows 11 feels more snappy and responsive to input.
TESTED: Windows 11's upcoming "Low Latency Profile" mode brings genuine performance improvements to the OS, speeding up flyout and app launches significantly.We've benchmarked opening some apps on video with the Low Latency Profile enabled and disabled, and you can see… pic.twitter.com/BCNtsXmx31May 8, 2026
Microsoft says these improvements are rolling out gradually, meaning you likely won't see the performance gains right after installing the update. Instead, the performance improvements will become enabled over the coming weeks as Microsoft makes it available in more waves.
Outside of fundamental performance issues, this new OS update also includes new features such as the ability to share Bluetooth with two devices at once, the ability to name your device during the setup experience, and Task Manager updates.
It's good to see Microsoft delivering genuinely good OS updates in recent months. Ever since the company promised to commit to improving Windows OS quality, we've seen the company continuously deliver meaningful improvements. Let's keep it coming, Microsoft!
How to get Windows 11 KB5089573
The KB5089573 update is now available, but you'll need to manually install it by heading to Windows Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates and select the update to install.
Alternatively, you can make sure the "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available" toggle enabled on the main Windows Update page, and hit check for updates. This will ensure you receive the optional OS updates as soon as they've made available for your device.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
