Microsoft is on the verge of rolling out the much-anticipated 25H2 update for Windows 11, with final preparations underway. According to reports from Windows Latest, the tech giant has begun uploading the update to its servers, and the latest build, version 26200.6584, has been designated as the final release to manufacturers (RTM) candidate. This aligns with an early October rollout, ensuring that the new version will be available just before Windows 10 reaches its end of support deadline in mid-October.
Interestingly, Windows Latest highlights that some of the most notable features of the 25H2 update may actually be available to users of Windows 11 24H2 first, raising questions about the necessity of the new upgrade.
Analysis: A truly lukewarm upgrade
As Microsoft has previously indicated, the 25H2 update is primarily a minor upgrade. The features included in this update are already present in Windows 11 24H2, making 25H2 essentially an ‘enablement package’ that activates these capabilities. A significant highlight of the 25H2 update is the redesigned Start menu, which streamlines the layout into a single panel and allows users to remove the recommended section, a move that reduces the presence of Microsoft’s promotional elements.
Microsoft has confirmed that this revamped Start menu will be rolled out to both 25H2 and 24H2 users in phases. This means that those who opt for the 25H2 update may not receive the new menu immediately, while users who remain on 24H2 could potentially access it first. This unique rollout strategy raises questions about the overall value of upgrading to 25H2.
As noted by Windows Latest, every new feature set to arrive with 25H2, including the Start menu redesign, will also be available to 24H2 users. This unusual scenario prompts a critical inquiry: what exactly is the incentive to upgrade to 25H2? While it is expected that there will be some minor additions exclusive to this latest version, the specifics remain unclear.
Moreover, while there may be enhancements beneath the surface of 25H2 aimed at improving the overall functionality of Windows 11, early testing has not indicated any significant performance improvements. However, it is important to note that these tests did not utilize the final version of the update, leaving room for potential optimizations that could enhance user experience.
Additionally, users who upgrade to 25H2 will benefit from an extended support timeline of an extra year. Nevertheless, the lack of compelling features may lead to a subdued response from Windows 11 users regarding this update. Ultimately, while the next annual update for Windows 11 is on the horizon, the urgency to adopt it appears minimal, particularly given that the most significant change—the new Start menu layout—might be accessible to those who choose to remain on 24H2 first. The timing of these updates will depend largely on individual hardware and software configurations, adding an element of unpredictability to the rollout process.