Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 version 25H2 has entered the Windows Insider Release Preview Channel, marking its final testing phase before being released to the general public. The company stated that version 25H2 will launch without any new features and will maintain feature parity with version 24H2.
According to a Microsoft blog post, Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 utilize a shared servicing branch. The post states that this shared branch means that both versions will receive the same features and enhancements through continuous innovation efforts. This announcement confirms that version 25H2 will not introduce any new features that are not already present in version 24H2. The shared servicing branch ensures consistency in feature sets across the two versions, simplifying the development and maintenance processes.
Despite maintaining feature parity, version 25H2 will remove certain features. Specifically, PowerShell 2.0 and the Windows Management Instrumentation command-line (WMIC) tool will no longer be available after upgrading to the 25H2 release. While these components are being removed, Microsoft anticipates that the impact on most users will be minimal. These features are likely used by a limited number of individuals, therefore, their removal should not significantly affect the user experience for the majority of users.
Due to the shared platform release and servicing stack between Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, users upgrading from 24H2 to 25H2 can expect a faster download and installation process. The update will require only a single restart, and the reboot process is expected to take just a few minutes. This streamlined process is attributed to the fact that version 25H2 is delivered as an enablement package rather than a full operating system upgrade, minimizing the amount of data that needs to be transferred and installed.
Additionally, the compatibility between the two versions should be seamless. There should be zero compatibility issues between version 24H2 and 25H2, meaning that all applications and games should function correctly after upgrading. According to Microsoft, even though version 25H2 will not introduce any new features, the company has focused on ensuring that the update process is as smooth and efficient as possible. This focus on compatibility helps to minimize disruptions for users during the upgrade process.
Following its entry into the Release
