Windows 11 25H2 is coming soon, now available for Insiders

[harlan4096]

Microsoft has confirmed the existence of Windows 11 25H2. In fact, the next feature update is already being tested in the Windows Insider Preview Program.

The Redmond company has announced various improvements over the past few months for insider channels, including a redesigned homepage for Recall, options to change where on-screen indicators appear, a GIF creator in Snipping Tool, a scrollable Start Menu, redesigned Search Settings, idle power management, Markdown format for Notepad, etc. It is possible that some of these features could ship with Windows 11 25H2. Windows 11 is replacing Blue Screen of Death with a new Black Screen of Death, Windows Security is also getting a major update and will prevent antivirus software from running on a kernel-level. These features are expected to roll out this summer.

Microsoft says that Windows 11 25H2 installs really fast, it's as quick as a restart. That's because servicing stack updates (SSUs) and latest cumulative updates have been combined, which has apparently reduced the package size by 40%. They share the servicing branch, which essentially means annual feature updates take the same amount of time to install as monthly updates.



And because they share the branch, Microsoft is adding new features for 25H2 by including them in Windows 11 24H2, in a Disabled state. So when you update to the final build, the code flags are enabled, the device is restarted, the new features are enabled, and you are on a shiny new build number. Okay, that sounds impressive on paper, but reliability is what matters. On the other hand, Microsoft also recently claimed that Windows 11 is 2.3 times faster than Windows 10, so believe what you will.  Those on older versions before Windows 11 24H2 will face longer installation times, since the code base is different.

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[harlan4096]

No Windows 12 this year: Microsoft promises speedy Windows 11, version 25H2 updates