What the Windows 11 Low Latency Profile Is and How It Works
Windows 11’s Low Latency Profile is a performance feature in the KB5089573 update that temporarily boosts CPU frequency for one to three seconds during latency‑sensitive actions, such as opening the Start menu, search, Action Center, or built‑in apps, to make core Windows features feel faster and more responsive. Instead of raising performance all the time, it uses short CPU performance boost bursts when you click or tap key interface elements. Reports show the CPU can reach its maximum boost frequency and even spike to 100% utilization when opening the Action Center, which helps remove micro‑stutters and lag. At launch, the feature focuses on shell components and native Windows tools, not third‑party applications, though Microsoft plans to expand support in a future update so more apps can benefit from the same low‑latency behavior.
How to Install the KB5089573 Update That Adds Low Latency Profile
To use the Windows 11 low latency feature, you first need the KB5089573 update, which Microsoft is offering as an optional preview for supported builds. Open Settings, go to Windows Update, then choose Advanced options and open Optional updates. Look for the 2026-05 Preview Update labeled KB5089573 (Build 26200.8524 or 26100.8524) and start the download. When the installer finishes, restart your PC to complete setup. According to Wccftech, “the change is included in the Windows 11 KB5089573 optional update for versions 24H2 and 25H2.” After the restart, Windows includes the Low Latency Profile in the system, but it might not yet be enabled for every device while Microsoft continues a gradual rollout. Even if you do not notice a visible toggle, installing this update prepares your machine for the CPU performance boost once it is activated for your configuration.
How to Enable the Low Latency Profile Today (and Why There’s No Toggle)
Right now, the Low Latency Profile does not appear as a simple switch in Windows 11’s settings, and it may be disabled by default even after you install KB5089573. Microsoft is rolling it out server‑side, so many users must wait until the company flips it on automatically. If you want to force‑enable it early, enthusiasts have confirmed you can use the third‑party ViVeTool utility from its official GitHub repository. This involves running several commands in an elevated Command Prompt or Windows Terminal to enable hidden feature IDs. PCMag notes you will “have to jump through a few hoops and run a few commands” to activate it this way. When Microsoft finishes deployment, the profile will run by default on all supported PCs, and you will not need ViVeTool or any manual steps beyond installing the KB5089573 update.
What Performance Improvements to Expect from the CPU Boost
The goal of the Windows 11 low latency feature is not higher benchmark scores but a Start menu faster to open and smoother everyday actions. When Windows detects that you are launching an app or opening shell UI such as Start, Search, or Action Center, it pushes the CPU to higher clock speeds for about one to three seconds. This short overclock‑style burst gives those operations priority so they complete quickly, then the processor returns to normal behavior. Windows Latest testing, cited by Wccftech, shows CPU usage rapidly climbing and even hitting 100% when the Action Center opens, which helps remove micro‑stutters in the interface. At present, the CPU performance boost is limited to native Windows tools and experiences; Microsoft has confirmed that support for third‑party apps will arrive in a future Low Latency Profile update.
When You Should Enable Low Latency Profile (and When to Wait)
You should consider enabling the KB5089573 update and Low Latency Profile if you notice sluggish Start menu animations, slow search results, or delays opening the Action Center. Systems with mid‑range CPUs, busy background workloads, or many installed apps are most likely to benefit from faster shell responsiveness. Because the CPU performance boost lasts only a second or two, typical desktop and gaming rigs should handle the extra momentary load without issues. However, power‑sensitive users may prefer to wait for Microsoft’s full rollout instead of forcing it on with ViVeTool, especially on laptops where battery life is a priority. The KB5089573 update also adds other improvements, including better Task Manager NPU reporting, improved search recognition from two characters, more reliable USB4/USB3 connections, and enhancements to Bluetooth audio sharing and camera streaming—useful bonuses even if you treat Low Latency Profile as an experimental feature for now.