Microsoft Adds External Fingerprint Reader Support in August Patch Tuesday Update

Microsoft has released its August 2026 Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, bringing new features and security fixes to affected systems. The KB5121003 cumulative update moves systems to builds 26100.9165 and 26200.9165.

The update includes support for external fingerprint readers with Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS), allowing users to extend hardware-isolated authentication to desktops and other PCs. This feature previously only supported devices with built-in fingerprint sensors.

File Explorer has also received some upgrades, including the ability to show file sizes in KB, MB, or GB depending on scale, as well as middle-clicking folders in the address bar or Home view to open them in new tabs.