Microsoft dev explains why they use H1/H2 naming scheme for updates

Windows 11 25H2: A New Era of Stability

This fall, Microsoft is set to unveil Windows 11 25H2, the latest iteration of its operating system. Unlike its predecessor, 24H2, which stirred quite a bit of disruption, this upcoming update promises a more stable experience, bolstered by stricter driver standards.

For those who have been following the evolution of Windows updates, the shift to the H1 and H2 naming convention may seem recent. In a thoughtful post on Microsoft’s Dev Blogs, Raymond Chen sheds light on the rationale behind this change. He recalls the days of the Fall Creators Update in 2017 and the Spring Creators Update in 2018, highlighting an internal discussion that revealed an interesting point: the seasonal naming conventions were not universally applicable.

Chen notes that while “Fall” and “Spring” updates made sense for users in the Northern Hemisphere, they posed a confusing contradiction for those in the Southern Hemisphere, where the seasons are reversed. This realization prompted Microsoft to adopt a more inclusive naming strategy. The new system designates H1 for updates released in the first half of the year and H2 for those in the latter half. Consequently, the designation “Windows 11 25H2” signifies a significant update slated for the second half of 2025.

This thoughtful approach not only enhances clarity but also reflects Microsoft’s commitment to creating a user-friendly environment for its global audience.

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Microsoft dev explains why they use H1/H2 naming scheme for updates