Windows 11's latest update quietly ends support for picture passwords
A recent Windows update focused on "quality improvements" and security has removed an authentication feature that quite a few users still rely on. Released on July 14, 2026, the KB5101650 update has quietly disabled support for picture password, an image-based sign-in method originally introduced in 2012 with Windows 8 as... Read Entire Article
Microsoft has quietly discontinued support for picture passwords in Windows 11 with the latest update KB5101650, released on July 14, 2026. The feature, introduced in Windows 8, allowed users to authenticate using a personal photo and a series of gestures. However, Microsoft deems picture passwords as an insecure authentication method and recommends biometrics instead.
The update affects Windows 10 and Windows 11 users, preventing them from setting up new picture passwords. Existing picture passwords will remain functional until users change or remove their current sign-in method. Microsoft encourages the use of more secure alternatives such as Windows Hello, PINs, and biometric authentication. The removal of picture passwords aims to enhance security on the Windows platform.
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