- Microsoft is reportedly developing a new feature update (potentially labeled “26H1”) specifically for Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon X2 Elite processors.
Microsoft is reportedly preparing a new feature update for its “Copilot+ PC” ecosystem that supports the upcoming Snapdragon X2 Elite platform, and it could roll out as early as next year under the version label “26H1.” According to postings by the leak-account “Phantomofearth,” this update will be exclusive to ARM-based PCs powered by Snapdragon X2 Elite, the next-generation chip from Qualcomm following the original Snapdragon X Elite lineup.
While this information remains unofficial, internally, Microsoft has reportedly used the version code 26H1. It’s possible the update may instead ship as “26H2,” with the numbering logic depending on Microsoft’s release cadence. The primary purpose is described as platform support for the new Snapdragon X2 Elite, rather than a broad Windows build feature-drop.
Importantly, this rumor should not be taken as indicating that Microsoft intends to roll back to a semi-annual release cadence or shift its release timing to early in the year. Instead, the company may simply be developing an update that could stretch into or be branded as 26H2. In fact, Microsoft took a similar approach with the earlier update labeled “24H2.” The initial build was exclusive to Snapdragon X-series machines (targeting Copilot+ PCs), followed later by a broader rollout to all supported devices.
Although we’re still months away from this release, Microsoft could start testing the support for the X2 platform, along with new features and other changes, soon through preview builds through the Windows Insider Program.
Furthermore, the company is already previewing some of the new features and changes that are planned for the November 2025 Security Update for Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2, which includes a new Start menu design, the new Administrator Protection security features, new iconography and a percentage indicator for the battery, and more.
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.
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