Microsoft has announced the upcoming release of Windows 11, version 25H2, with general availability planned for the second half of 2025. This will be the annual feature update following version 24H2. For users currently running Windows 11, version 24H2, the transition to version 25H2 will be seamless - requiring only a single restart.
The update will be powered by Microsoft’s shared servicing branch model, which allows new features to be staged gradually via monthly updates before being fully enabled through an enablement package (eKB). This method reduces overall update size by up to 40% and ensures minimal downtime during installation.
The shared servicing model applies the same approach used for monthly updates to major feature upgrades. New functionality is delivered in a disabled state as part of cumulative updates, then activated when the eKB is applied. As a result, both versions share the same underlying codebase, limiting compatibility concerns and allowing organizations to focus testing on new features rather than full system interactions.
This update also brings a fresh support lifecycle: Enterprise and Education editions will receive support for 36 months, while Pro, Pro Education, Pro for Workstation, and Home editions will be supported for 24 months from the release date.
For early access, Windows Insiders can now preview features in the Dev Channel. For broader deployment, Microsoft recommends upgrading existing devices to version 24H2 ahead of time to ensure the smoothest possible transition when version 25H2 becomes available to the public later this year.
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