What’s New in Windows 11: August 2025 Updates

As we move beyond August 2025, it’s essential to review the significant updates made to Windows 11 last month. This includes new features introduced, deprecated components, bug fixes, and other noteworthy developments that promise to enhance user experience.

Key Additions to Windows 11

Pointer Crosshair: A valuable feature from PowerToys is making its way back. Users in the Canary build can now activate a mouse crosshair, enhancing visibility and improving accessibility by allowing for easier cursor tracking on screen.
Enhancements to File Explorer: Users will find an enriched activity pane for those using work or school accounts. Enhanced quick-action buttons on the Home page streamline access to features and functionalities.
Refinements to SCOOBE: The second-chance out-of-the-box experience has received essential updates, improving first-time user interaction.
Notepad Context Menus Revamped: Notepad’s context menus have been updated to align with the aesthetic of Windows 11. The operating system itself also features neater context menus complete with enhanced icons.
Enhanced Dark Mode: Microsoft has extended dark mode compatibility across various user interface elements, including file dialogs and progress bars.
AI Features for Canary Users: Notable AI-driven functionalities, such as Recall and Click to Do, are now accessible to users on the Canary build.
Updated Copilot App: The Copilot app now boasts a fresh home page with additional actions, including the capability for users to locate files using natural language queries.
New Keyboard Shortcuts and Enhancements: The introduction of novel keyboard shortcuts improves cross-device interactions, along with a revamped Settings app for a more user-friendly experience.

Features Removed from Windows 11

Sunset of Windows 11 SE: Microsoft announced the discontinuation of Windows 11 SE, the budget-friendly version aimed at entry-level PCs. Version 24H2 will be its final update, and it will be phased out after one year.
End of Support for Version 23H2: Users are urged to upgrade, as support for Windows 11 version 23H2 is set to conclude shortly.
PowerShell 2.0 Removal: The upcoming 24H2 version will no longer support PowerShell 2.0. Users dependent on this version should consult Microsoft’s guidance for alternatives.
Elimination of Manual App Update Control: Microsoft has removed the option to disable automatic updates in the Microsoft Store; users can now only suspend updates for a limited time.

Noteworthy Developments

Release of Windows 11 Version 25H2: This new version is now available in the Release Preview Channel for users to explore.
Open-Sourcing of UI Framework: Microsoft has began the process of open-sourcing the UI framework for Windows 11, sharing key details about the initial phase of this endeavor.
Changes to Desktop Shortcuts: An upcoming shift in how desktop shortcuts function has been announced for the Windows 11 version 25H2.
Launch of Windows 365 Reserve: This innovative service offers businesses access to backup PCs in the cloud when local hardware experiences outages.
Hints at Future Windows Version: A Microsoft executive recently shared insights about the anticipated Windows 12, featuring extensive AI integration.
Automatic Quality Updates During Setup: For some users, Windows 11 now automatically installs quality updates during the out-of-box experience (OOBE).
Commitment to Improving Bluetooth Audio: Microsoft has promised enhancements to Bluetooth audio standards in Windows 11, alongside ensuring appropriate notifications for USB-C connections.

Resolved Bugs and Issues

Concerns Over SSD Damage: There were reports regarding system updates in August 2025 affecting SSD functionality; however, Microsoft, along with other entities, has refuted these claims, asserting that the updates did not cause any issues.
Event Viewer Bug Fix: Microsoft has finally resolved the long-standing bug in the Event Viewer that users were advised to overlook.

Optional Updates

In addition to standard updates, both Windows 10 and 11 users can install several optional updates. For instance, Windows 11 version 23H2 offers KB5064080, which includes the Windows Backup for Organizations app and various enhancements. Meanwhile, Windows 11 version 24H2 includes KB5064081, featuring a redesigned Windows Hello and improved Task Manager. Lastly, Windows 10 users can access KB5063842, one of its last non-security updates.

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