Windows 11 25H2 vs 24H2: How they compare, and what’s different

• Windows 11 25H2 and version 24H2 both share the same core file system, but 25H2 enables new features, visual changes, and other improvements.
• Microsoft will activate these features through an enablement package.

Microsoft is preparing to release Windows 11 25H2 in late 2025. While version 24H2 laid the foundation for AI integration, version 25H2 builds upon that with refined features, performance improvements, and exclusive capabilities for Copilot+ PCs and newer devices.

If you’re trying to understand the difference between Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, this guide breaks down the key comparisons to help you decide if the upgrade is necessary, especially as Microsoft shifts its focus to AI experiences.

What’s the difference between Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2?

Despite being labeled a major update, Windows 11 25H2 shares the same “Germanium” platform (core file system) as version 24H2. This means that both versions are nearly identical under the hood.

Instead of releasing a full operating system upgrade, Microsoft will deliver 25H2 as an enablement package (eKB) that unlocks dormant features already present in 24H2. If you’re already running 24H2, the 25H2 update will install quickly using the “Windows Update” mechanism and will simply activate the new features and bump the version number, no reinstallation required.

It’s expected to be more focused on stability, bug fixes, and refining existing features rather than introducing a vast array of completely new functionalities. This is somewhat in response to some reported issues with the 24H2 release, even though the company touts version 24H2 as one of the best releases.

The key takeaway, from a technical standpoint, is that Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 are functionally the same. The main differences lie in the features Microsoft decides to enable in the new update.

If you’re coming from version 23H2 or an earlier release, you will need to perform a complete operating system upgrade or clean installation to jump to 25H2.

New features are coming to version 25H2

Microsoft hasn’t officially announced the complete feature set for 25H2, but recent Dev Channel preview builds provide strong indicators of what to expect.

For instance, Windows 11 25H2 is expected to include a redesigned Start menu that combines the “Pinned” with the “All” sections into one page, and now, you’ll have the ability to hide the “Recommended” section.

This new version will also focus on AI improvements, meaning that you will see new features coming to Windows Recall and Click to Do, and the company may include more AI models to enable more experiences.

Microsoft is also working on a new security feature known as “Administrator Protection” to improve security by prompting for authorization when an untrusted or unsigned app requires elevation to make system changes.

This update will also bring changes to Windows Search with image results in a grid, Notification Center with multi-monitor support, redesigned Second Chance Out-of-Box Experience, and more.

Upgrading to Windows 11 25H2

If you’re already running version 24H2, the upgrade to 25H2 will have minimal impact. Since both versions share the same codebase, the update requires minimal system changes and unlocks additional features without requiring a reinstall.

Upgrading also extends your support lifecycle by another 24 months, which is a key consideration for long-term stability and security updates.

If you’ll be coming from version 23H2 or an older release, then that’s a different story. If you’re comfortable using one of those versions, consider staying with your specific release for a little longer.

Now, it’s important to note that version 23H2 support will end on November 1, 2025, and the support for version 22H2 ended in 2024.

In that case, upgrading to 25H2 is highly recommended to continue receiving security patches and new system features.

If you have any other questions, let me know in the comments.