Overview

• Microsoft placed Windows 11 version 25H2 in the Release Preview channel on August 29, signaling the final testing phase before broad release.
• Builds for 25H2 start with 26200, and Release Preview now serves a role comparable to the old RTM milestone.
• Microsoft is servicing 24H2 and 25H2 on the same branch, with 25H2 delivered as an enablement package that activates features already on devices.
• For most systems already on 24H2, installation is expected to be quick and finish with a single restart.
• The update removes deprecated PowerShell 2.0 and WMIC, adds IT controls to remove select preinstalled Microsoft Store apps on Enterprise/EDU devices, and restarts the two-year security support window for this annual release.