Microsoft has begun the rollout of the mandatory update for Windows 11, known as KB5063878, which introduces a range of new features and enhancements aimed at improving user experience. Among the updates are Quick Machine Recovery and improved overall performance. For users who find themselves unable to download this August 2025 Update, Microsoft has provided direct download links for the offline installers (.msu).
This update, KB5063878, will be installed automatically over the next few days, even if you do not manually check for updates. However, if you take the initiative to look for updates, the installation will commence right away. It is identified as “2025-08 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5063878)“and upgrades systems to Windows 11 Build 26100.4946.
According to observations from Windows Latest, this update addresses numerous stability issues associated with Windows 11 24H2. After the May 2025 update, several users reported degraded performance, including reduced frame rates in popular games like Fortnite. With the release of KB5063878, performance improvements are noticeable. Microsoft has not disclosed specific details about previous bugs but acknowledged that earlier patches led to “devices experiencing stability issues, ”including instances where devices became unresponsive in certain situations. This has since been rectified.
Download Links for Windows 11 KB5063878
For those interested, direct download links for Windows 11 KB5063878 are available here: 64-bit and ARM-64 via the Microsoft Update Catalog.
While it’s recommended to download the update through Windows Update for ease, some users may encounter installation issues. In such cases, the Update Catalog provides an alternative option.
When visiting the provided link, you will find the patch with a download button. Click this button and open the link in a new tab to download the.msu file.
| Architecture | Size | Build |
|---|---|---|
| ARM64 | 3509.1 MB | 26100.4946 |
| x64 | 3054.9 MB | 26100.4946 |
| x64 (Server 24H2) | 3054.9 MB | 26100.4946 |
The substantial size of the update can largely be attributed to Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to incorporate advanced AI models, even for systems lacking dedicated Neural Processing Units (NPU).
New Features in Windows 11 Build 26100.4946
1. Enhanced Settings Interface
As part of this update, Microsoft has revamped the Settings app, moving the search bar to a more prominent location at the top. This change is applicable to all Windows users. For those with a Copilot+ PC, the search feature now includes AI capabilities that anticipate your settings needs based on your inquiries.
For instance, typing “battery optimization”or asking, “How can I extend my battery life for classes tomorrow?”prompts the Settings app to automatically display relevant links relating to battery management.
While this integrated AI functionality enhances the usability of Windows 11 24H2, it is currently exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, which require higher processing powers. This limitation does not fully resolve existing search functionality issues found in Windows Search.
2. Optimizations for Handheld Gaming
This update also includes advancements for the touch keyboard’s gamepad layout, improving controller navigation. Users will observe enhanced focus when selecting menus and toggling language options. Additionally, new controller shortcuts facilitate quick PIN entry and access to the desktop. These enhancements align with Microsoft’s broader initiative to deliver an optimized gaming experience on future handheld devices.
3. Transition from Blue Screen to Black Screen of Death (BSOD)
In a significant design shift, Microsoft has replaced the traditional Blue Screen of Death with a sleeker Black Screen of Death. This update reflects Windows 11’s modern aesthetic; however, it may cause confusion as the new error screen closely resembles the Windows installation screen.
The new BSOD is minimalist and excludes the familiar frowning face, instead highlighting that an error has occurred while collecting logs. Microsoft has mentioned that error logs are generated more swiftly now, resulting in a quicker appearance of the BSOD.
4. Quick Machine Recovery Feature
A noteworthy addition in this update is the Quick Machine Recovery feature, which offers a valuable solution for users facing booting issues following faulty updates from OEMs or applications. This functionality allows users to restore their operating system even when trapped in a BSOD or advanced startup screen.
Our tests indicate that Quick Machine Recovery is one of the most beneficial features introduced recently, as it enables users to recover their Windows installation without compromising any personal data. Microsoft implemented this feature in response to significant outages, such as the CrowdStrike incident that reportedly caused over $10 billion in financial losses.
5. New AI Features for Copilot+ PCs in the EEA
The KB5063878 update also launches new AI features, particularly for Copilot+ PCs in the European Economic Area (EEA).The Recall feature is being rolled out, enabling users to leverage AI while maintaining privacy without data being transmitted to the cloud. Users are required to toggle this setting during the out-of-box experience (OOBE) after the update.
Moreover, users can control Recall settings directly through the Privacy section in the system settings. In the US, users are also provided with an option to delete Recall data easily.
Beyond Recall, the AI Copilot can streamline tasks in Word by drafting documents, summarizing content, and creating tables. However, this function is exclusive to Microsoft 365 subscribers and is unavailable on local Office installations.
Key Fixes, Improvements, and Changes in Windows 11 KB5063878:
- Rectifies erroneous Windows Firewall alerts in Event Viewer.
- Restores functionality to the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS).
- Resolves an issue causing the File Explorer Home tab to show incorrect folder visibility.
- Corrects a bug affecting the saving of Wi-Fi credentials within the Settings app.
- Fixes issues with the ‘Do nothing’ toggle within laptop power settings.
- Introduces inline messages within File Explorer for better group management of applications.
- Merges Windows Search-related settings for improved accessibility.
- Fixes visibility issues with the More “…” menu in File Explorer.
- Enhances overall File Explorer performance.
- Resolves issues causing application icons to appear as white thumbnails during updates.
While Microsoft states that there are currently no known issues with Windows 11 KB5063878, I will continue to test the August 2025 update on a variety of configurations. Any new bug reports will be updated accordingly, and users are encouraged to share their experiences or problems in the comments section below.
Leave a Reply