Windows 11’s annual feature update—version 25H2 (Build 26200.5074)—is now available in the Release Preview Channel. This signals that the update is nearly finalised and ready for broader deployment later this year.
If you are a Windows Insider on the “Release Preview Build”, this will be offered to you as an optional update.
Windows 11 25H2 – What’s New
This update is delivered as an enablement package (eKB), meaning that Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 share the same servicing branch and feature set. This is a huge benefit to users and businesses, since it means it’s deployed and installed like an update with out the need for a full OS reinstall over the top.
The formal Windows 11 Build number jumps from 24H2’s 26100 series to 26200.5074 (or later), marking the official 25H2 release. Once installed, monthly servicing updates will continue seamlessly – following the standard Windows Update cadence
Feature Removals and Enterprise Controls
- PowerShell 2.0 and the Windows Management Instrumentation command-line tool (WMIC) are removed in this update, aligning with Microsoft’s deprecation roadmap
- IT admins on Enterprise and Education editions can now remove select preinstalled Microsoft Store apps via Group Policy or MDM CSP—streamlining bloat management across managed devices
Deployment Paths and Timing
- Seeker Experience – Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel can opt into 25H2 via Settings → Windows Update → “Download and install”.
- Commercial Channels – Available through Windows Update for Business (WUfB) and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
- Azure Marketplace images go live later today, empowering large-scale testing and validation.
- Fresh-install ISO files will be published next week on the Windows Insider ISO download pages.
Why 25H2 is good for IT Management
Predictable annual cadence lets you plan testing windows without chasing large-scale feature overhauls.
- 25H2 uses the same servicing branch as 24H2 which reduces validation overhead since it acts like a new feature rather than new build. This means new features arrive continuously instead of big bang releases.
- New enhanced Group Policy controls for Store apps improve image standardisation and reduce endpoint clutter.
- Early access via Windows Insider Release Preview gives IT departments a runway to validate compatibility, prove stability, tweak policies, and train end user support teams before general availability.
References and more reading
Preparing now of course will help ensure your organisation can move smoothly to Windows 11 25H2 when the public rollout begins around October time. Validate in your environment, document any custom policies, and align with your Windows Update for Business strategy to deliver a seamless upgrade experience. It is worth noting that
Microsoft consider a device a commercial device if it is not running the Windows 11 Home edition AND is being managed by an IT administrator (whether via Microsoft Endpoint Manager or other management solution) or has a volume license key or commercial ID or is joined to a domain.