Overview
- Microsoft confirmed Tuesday that the public, staged rollout of Windows 11 version 26H2 began on September 29, 2026 and that servicing has started for the new release.
- 26H2 is distributed as a small enablement package on the Germanium platform that activates features already present in prior monthly updates, so most up-to-date PCs install with a short download and a single restart.
- To get the update now users should opt in to ‘Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available’ and check Windows Update, but Microsoft will expand availability in stages and may apply safeguard holds to block devices with known compatibility problems.
- The update changes enterprise defaults and lifecycles: Point-in-time restore and Windows settings backup will be enabled by default on eligible managed PCs, and support runs 24 months for Home/Pro and 36 months for Enterprise/Education from the release date.
- Pre-release indicators such as ESD files (Build 26300.9457) seeded on Microsoft servers signaled the imminent launch and underline that 24H2 and 25H2 PCs share the same Germanium core and can move to 26H2 with the enablement package while older or different-core builds require a fuller upgrade path.