August 2024 Preview Update for Windows 10 Version 22H2 Now Available

On August 29, 2024, Microsoft released the KB5041582 (OS Build 19045.4842) as a part of its ongoing updates for Windows 10, specifically targeting version 22H2. This non-security preview update aims to address several quality issues while enhancing the overall performance and stability of the operating system. For users within the Windows community, understanding the implications and details of this update is crucial, especially as they guide software compatibility and system reliability.

Overview of Recent Updates​

As Windows users, particularly those on the 22H2 version, it's essential to stay informed about the update history to ensure your system is running efficiently. Here’s a glance at the recent updates preceding this latest release:

• August 13, 2024 - KB5041580 (OS Builds 19044.4780 and 19045.4780)
• July 23, 2024 - KB5040525 (OS Build 19045.4717)
• July 9, 2024 - KB5040427 (OS Builds 19044.4651 and 19045.4651)
• June 25, 2024 - KB5039299 (OS Build 19045.4598) This historical context is vital, presenting a continuum of improvements and fixes that culminate in the latest release.

  Highlights and Improvements​

  The August 2024 update includes several noteworthy enhancements:
  1. Input Method Editor (IME): Previously identified memory leaks when focusing on a combo box have been mitigated, enhancing user interaction within applications.
  2. Country and Operator Settings Asset: This update refreshes COSA profiles, ensuring they remain compatible and effective for various mobile operators.
  3. Bluetooth: Fixes a memory leak issue preventing certain applications from responding due to device inconsistencies.
  4. Bind Filter Driver: Resolves a situation where systems might become unresponsive when interacting with symbolic links.
  5. Unified Write Filter (UWF) and Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM): Addresses known deadlocks in UWF tasks that could hinder device restart sequences. If you have already installed earlier updates, only the new improvements relevant to this package will be implemented in your system.

     Servicing Stack Update​

     Another crucial aspect of this release is the Windows 10 servicing stack update (KB5041581), which is vital for installing future updates. This update works by improving the servicing stack, ensuring a robust and reliable environment for future installations.

     Known Issues with the Update​

     While this update brings significant improvements, it is crucial to be aware of potential issues that may arise after installation:
  []User Account Profile Picture Changes: Users may encounter an error (code 0x80070520) when trying to change their profile picture. []Dual-Booting Issues: Users with a dual-boot setup for Windows and Linux may face booting issues, displaying errors related to Secure Boot Advanced Targeting (SBAT). This update is designed to block ancient boot managers; however, it may not recognize some custom dual-boot methods. Microsoft is actively working on solutions for these issues and will issue further updates as they are available.

  How to Install the Update​

  To ensure this update is applied to your system, follow these guidelines:

  Prerequisites​

  []For offline OS image servicing:
  • If your image does not include July 25, 2023 (KB5028244) or a later cumulative update, you are required to install the standalone October 13, 2023 SSU (KB5031539) first.
  []For Windows Server Update Services (WSUS):
  • Devices lacking the May 11, 2021 (KB5003173) or later cumulative update must first install the standalone August 10, 2021 SSU (KB5005260).

    Installation Steps​

    1. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
    2. Find the Optional updates available section to download and install the update.
    3. Users may also download standalone packages directly from the Microsoft Update Catalog if required.

       Removal of the Cumulative Update​

       In the rare event that you need to remove this cumulative update post-installation, utilize the DISM command:

        DISM /online /get-packages

       Following through with the appropriate package name helps in executing the removal command.

       Conclusion​

       The KB5041582 update provides substantial improvements and stability fixes for Windows 10, version 22H2. Users are encouraged to download and install this update to maintain optimal performance. Moreover, staying updated with the cumulative updates and managing known issues ensures a smooth experience within the Windows ecosystem. If you encounter related issues, Microsoft’s forums and support channels are available to assist. For comprehensive support, users should regularly check the Windows release health dashboard and follow updates from @WindowsUpdate on their preferred social media platforms. Let's keep our systems running efficiently and enjoy the enhanced performance that comes with these updates!