Microsoft to Roll Out Windows 11 26H2 as 5th Feature Update Later This Year
Updated
Updated · Windows Central · Jul 19
Microsoft to Roll Out Windows 11 26H2 as 5th Feature Update Later This Year
3 articles · Updated · Windows Central · Jul 19
Summary
Windows 11 version 26H2 is expected later in 2026 as the desktop OS’s fifth feature update, but it will largely mirror version 25H2 rather than deliver a major new release.
26H2 shares the same platform, features and cumulative updates as 25H2, with the main visible changes limited to the version label, 26300-series build numbers and a refreshed support lifecycle.
For PCs already on 24H2 or 25H2, Microsoft is expected to ship 26H2 as a small enablement package requiring only one restart; older Windows 11 versions and Windows 10 will need a full feature upgrade.
Support is the main reason to move: version 25H2 remains supported through October 2027, while 24H2 retires on October 13, 2026, and 26H2 is expected to add another year for eligible devices.
Microsoft is also expected to keep the same hardware requirements and use a gradual controlled rollout, meaning availability may spread over weeks or months instead of reaching all PCs at once.