Microsoft’s June Windows 11 Update: The Technique Briefly Ramping The CPU To Full Clock Speed For One To Three Seconds During Specific Shell Interactions Before Dropping Back Down Has Been Standard In MacOS And Linux For Years, And Windows Is Now Catching Up With Build 26200.8655 Or 26100.8655
According to PCWorld and Windows Latest, Microsoft is releasing the long-awaited “Low Latency Profile” feature for Windows 11 as part of its regular update cycle via update KB5094126. What was once optional is now rolling out to all Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 PCs.
Low Latency Profile makes Windows respond faster during certain actions. You should notice the speed boost especially on older or cheaper PCs with weaker hardware, whereas machines that are already powerful probably won’t notice much of a difference.
Low Latency Profile briefly boosts CPU clock speed to full power for at least 1 second and up to 3 seconds, but only for specific tasks like launching an app or opening the Start menu. It’s intended to address unnecessary lag and stuttering over the course of regular operation.
Once Windows has performed this action, the CPU clock speed is brought back down again. It’s a technique that’s been used in macOS and Linux for a long time. Windows is now catching up.
In the update notes, Microsoft describes it as: “This update accelerates app launch and core shell experiences such as Start menu, Search, and Action Center.”
To install, navigate to Settings → System → Windows Update and install KB5094126. Your build number should show 26200.8655 for 25H2 or 26100.8655 for 24H2. Note that Microsoft is still gradually rolling out the new Low Latency Profile feature, which means even if your PC is eligible to receive it, it may not be activated yet and there’s no official indicator in Windows that shows whether Low Latency Profile is active. To verify, install the free HWiNFO app and watch for CPU spikes to maximum during Start menu or app launches.
To check out our previous coverage on Windows 11, Microsoft updates, and PC performance, read our articles here.
