Microsoft has officially unveiled the upcoming iteration of its operating system, Windows 11 25H2, signaling a shift towards a more streamlined upgrade process compared to its predecessor.
Streamlined Upgrade Process
The forthcoming Windows 11 25H2 will utilize a “shared servicing branch” for updates, a method that simplifies the upgrade experience. This approach allows Microsoft to identify and send only the necessary code to users’ machines through Windows Update, resulting in a significant reduction in download size—approximately 40 percent less than previous updates.
In contrast, the earlier update to Windows 11 24H2 required a more complex full code swap, which could take nearly two hours on older hardware. This method replaced all existing code with a complete update, making the process more time-consuming and cumbersome.
With the return to a shared servicing branch, users can anticipate a much quicker transition to Windows 11 25H2. The update will be delivered quietly in the background, with components ready to be activated via an enablement package. Once users reboot their systems, the new code will be fully operational.
For those curious about their current version, navigating to Windows Settings > System > About will reveal the latest updates from Microsoft.
Anticipated Rollout Timeline
While Microsoft has yet to announce a specific release date for Windows 11 25H2, historical patterns suggest a likely rollout in September or October. As for the features accompanying this update, details remain sparse. However, recent test builds have hinted at new functionalities, including a dashboard for Recall technology and passkey integration with 1Password.
