- Windows 11 25H2 has been confirmed as a feature update that will include faster installation via an enablement package.
- Microsoft has yet to announce the new features and changes officially, and it’s expected to arrive sometime in the fall, presumably in October 2025.
UPDATED 7/15/2025: Microsoft has officially announced Windows 11 25H2 (2025 Update), the fourth feature update planned for the operating system, and there’s a lot to like about this one. It’s faster to install, easier to manage, and brings improvements without the hassle. Or at least that’s the intention. Let me break it down for you.
What’s Windows 11 25H2?
Windows 11 25H2 is the next major feature update of the operating system, sharing the same core as version 24H2, and it’s expected to be released in October 2025.
However, it won’t be a full-blown upgrade, such as upgrading to a new operating system. Since both versions share the same core, Microsoft will push new features and changes belonging to version 25H2 to a device running 24H2. The enablement package then updates the version number from 24H2 to 25H2, unlocking the new features that were previously dormant on your device.
What’s the support cycle for Windows 11 25H2?
If you’re on Windows 11 Pro or Home, you’ll get 24 more months of updates. For Enterprise and Education users, the term is 36 months. This update keeps your system secure and supported for a longer period.
When is the release date for Windows 11 25H2?
Windows 11 25H2 is expected to be released in October 2025, but the company hasn’t officially announced the exact date.
Is Windows 11 25H2 a free upgrade?
Windows 11 25H2 will be a free upgrade for compatible Windows 11 and 10 devices. If you’re already running version 24H2, you’ll experience a quick upgrade process like a monthly update. However, if you’re using an older version of Windows 11 or Windows 10, it’ll require a full reinstallation of the operating system.
Will Microsoft force Windows 11 25H2 on PCs?
No, the company won’t (initially) force version 25H2 on your computer. Once the feature update is ready, you will be notified to download the new version manually through Windows Update. If you’re a “seeker,” you can force the upgrade by turning on “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” and then clicking the “Check for updates” button in Settings, followed by the “Download and install” button.
Alternatively, you will be able to install the new version using a USB installation media or ISO file to perform an in-place upgrade or clean installation. In addition, you can use the Installation Assistant to upgrade. If you want to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2 early, you’ll have to enroll your computer in the Windows Insider Program once the feature update is in the Release Preview Channel.
If you want an even earlier start, you can enroll your computer in the Dev Channel now. Or you can download the Windows 11 25H2 ISO file using the UUP Dump script.
Will every PC receive all the features in version 25H2?
The short answer is “No” because some features will require new hardware. While many features will be available for existing supported devices, some improvements will be specific to Copilot+ PCs.
Additionally, even after the Windows 11 2025 Update becomes available, Microsoft will continue the gradual rollout of new features and changes, meaning you won’t likely have immediate access to all the new features with this feature update after the official launch.
This guide highlights the most important features and changes appearing in previews through the Windows Insider Program and will be updated regularly to reflect the changes. The last update was on July 15, 2025, with the changes available to build 26200.5702 in the Dev Channel.
What features are being introduced in version 25H2?
These are new features and improvements that are expected to become available with the release of Windows 11 25H2. In addition to the changes highlighted below, the company is also working on a new Start menu. However, it remains unclear whether it’ll arrive in version 24H2 or will be exclusive to version 25H2.
New AI image description on Copilot+ PCs
If you have a Copilot+ PC, starting with version 25H2, Click to Do is adding a new “Describe image” action that uses AI to generate a description of an image, chart, or graph.
When selecting this action for the first time, the system must configure another AI model that runs on the device to generate the information.
The feature is now available for devices with Snapdragon processors, but support for AMD and Intel will arrive at a later date.
New admin protection for app elevation
The “Administrator protection” is a security feature available through the Windows Security app. Once enabled, it provides a new security layer that prompts for authorization when an untrusted or unsigned app requires elevation to make system changes.
The interface provides a yellow color scheme for applications that may be harmful to run on your computer. However, it’s also available with a light color scheme to allow elevation for trusted and signed programs.
To enable the security feature, open Windows Security > Account protection, click on the “Administrator protection settings” page, turn on the “Administrator protection” toggle switch, and restart the computer.
Although this feature may resemble the “User Account Control” (UAC) feature, it’s different. The UAC feature is a broader security feature within Windows 11. In contrast, the Administrator protection feature ensures that any access attempt or tampering with the code or data of an elevated session requires authorization.
Redesigned app permission dialogs
The company is also redesigning app permission dialogs for a more consistent experience. When an app requests access to sensitive resources, such as location, camera, or microphone, the system now displays a centered modal dialog with a dimmed background to draw more attention and improve clarity.
Passkeys with 1Password support
Microsoft is also taking another step toward eliminating passwords on Windows 11 with the seamless support for plugin-based passkey managers, with 1Password (beta) as the first integrated provider.
This means you can now store and use passkeys directly through 1Password and log in using Windows Hello (face, fingerprint, or PIN).
If you want to try this feature, you’ll need to install the 1Password (beta) on your computer. Then, in Settings > Accounts > Passkeys > Advanced options, you’ll need to enable the plugin.
Once you have done this configuration, you can use your existing passkeys saved to the plugin credential manager or save new passkeys.
Other changes
In addition, it has been discovered that version 25H2 will include a new policy called “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages from the system,” which will enable you to uninstall most of the default apps that come preinstalled on Windows 11.
Windows 11 25H2 – Update History
- Dev Channel releases:
Update July 15, 2025: This content has been updated with new information, and it’s been revised to ensure accuracy.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 22 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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