Technology Advisor Blog

In January, multiple updates for Windows 11 affected millions of users. These mostly consisted of security patches, bug fixes, AI implementation and a new feature in the mix to improve the user experience for Microsoft users. As we enter a new month, Microsoft has another wave of updates for users that can help improve their security posture, enhance some features and discontinued others.

At Ekaru, we specialize in Microsoft applications, we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date news on cybersecurity, Windows and more! Staying ahead of trends and updates is the best advantage for you and your colleagues!

Updates: Gradual Rollout Vs. Normal Rollout

If there's a pattern we've noticed with Windows updates, there are the gradual and normal rollouts of updates. You may be thinking, 'I see these terms all the time, what's the differentiation between the two?"

Gradual Rollout: Delivers updates through phases. This means that features updates can reach your devices overtime gradually (see what I did there) instead of all at once. Depending on what devices you may have, this is possibly how updates may arrive.
Normal Rollout: Compared to gradual where they occur piece by piece, a normal rollout is the release to all eligible devices at the same time, reaching general availability. 

Security Patches, Stability, and User Experience Enhancements

On the second Tuesday of each month (Patch Tuesday), we can expect a release of a security update to improve window's functionality for users. On February 10th, Microsoft's security patch known as KB5074105 will be rolled out.  Ekaru tools will test this patch before it is released to our community. 

Patch Improves:

• Functionality 

• Performance

• Reliability

These updates are meant to keep you protected across your devices and maintain productivity as normal, keeping Windows devices secure and compliant by addressing security vulnerabilities. 

Implementation of AI Features Continue Across Windows 11

AI is expected to feel less experimental and more embedded into everyday workflows. Rather than being limited to a single assistant or app, AI capabilities are anticipated to appear more naturally throughout the operating system.

This may include smarter system search, contextual suggestions based on user activity, and AI-assisted support for writing, summarizing, and organizing content. Microsoft is also expected to continue expanding on-device AI processing, improving performance while maintaining privacy.

AI Implementations Include:

• More intuitive system search and task recommendations

• AI-assisted productivity features integrated across apps

• Enhanced troubleshooting and settings guidance

For organizations taking on these new AI implementations, these are great in the sense of productivity gains. But with any new feature, it is essential to ensure there is an Acceptable AI Use policy in place to ensure your business is using monitored AI features, training amongst employees for using AI and data security.

Duo Productivity from Desktop to Mobile Device

In May 2025, Cross-Device resume was introduced, particularly if you are an Android user. Allowing you to continue your work productivity across two devices; android device and PC. If you're unfamiliar with using this feature, you need the following:

• Both android device and desktop connected to the internet.

• Android device connected to your PC with link to Windows App.

• For Android- Has to be running Android 10 or later. PC-Windows 11 or later.

From several updates within the last year, Cross Device Resume now works with Spotify playback, Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and presentations through Microsoft PowerPoint.

Narrator Controls and Voice

Accessibility is expected to be a major focus in early 2026 updates. Microsoft has been steadily enhancing Narrator and other assistive technologies, and February’s updates are likely to build on that momentum.

For those that find it easier to vocalize their thoughts instead of meticulously typing, new and improved controls for Narrator are here. users can adjust their on-screen controls but how they are present, choose what they would like spoken and their preferences for materials to read aloud.
For Voice Access, this feature allows users to control their PC with Windows 11 using speech to access where and what applications they prefer to use. Instead of a standard voice while using Voice Access, new and improved tools includes a new set up approach, model for your specific language while also explaining how these new features work for you.
These enhancements are especially impactful for people who require accessibility accommodations, including users with visual impairments, learning differences, motor limitations, or conditions that make prolonged typing difficult, helping ensure Windows 11 remains inclusive and usable for everyone.

What We know For March With Updates

Aside from usual Microsoft updates and security patches, new features or improved stability, Microsoft teams has a new feature coming in mid-March with a whole general rollout for April 2026. To combat malicious scam attempts on folks within the organization, Microsoft teams is releasing a new security feature known as 'Report-A-Call'. This feature's intent is to help flag suspicious calls, allowing your organization and application to further identify a scam attempt to not affect your everyday workflow. Users will be able report one-to-one calls on teams using windows, mac, and web.
What Happens When Call is Reported
Once a call is reported, data is recorded, such as:

• Time stamps

• Caller ID

• Team ID

These are shared within the organization in order to help quickly identify threats.

Ekaru Helps You Stay Ahead

The Ekaru team helps organizations prepare for upcoming Windows 11 changes by working closely with your team to ensure updates align with your business needs, minimize disruption, and support accessibility, security, and productivity goals.

Our services include:

• Phased rollout strategies to reduce downtime while explaining what these mean for you and your colleagues.

• Security patch management and compliance support to remain on top of all updates.

• User awareness training, to stay ahead of all things cybersecurity.

• Ongoing monitoring and optimization across devices for any unusual activity.

Bottom Line

Throughout 2026, Windows 11 will continue to evolve.  With the right planning and support, these updates can be an advantage rather than a disruption.

If you're looking for further information, contact our team today to start planning your Windows 11 update strategy and ensure your organization is ready for what’s next!