Microsoft Releases Windows 11 25H2 Update Preview – Key Features Revealed

Windows Insiders, today marks a key milestone as Windows 11, version 25H2 (Build 26200.5074) becomes available in the Release Preview Channel.

This annual feature update arrives as an enablement package (eKB) that transforms eligible PCs from version 24H2 to the latest release, unlocking new features delivered via our continuous innovation model.

Below is an in-depth look at what’s new, what’s removed, and how you can preview version 25H2 ahead of its general availability later this year.

Enablement Package Delivery and Shared Servicing

Windows 11, version 25H2, is being rolled out as an eKB, meaning the underlying files for version 25H2 are already present on devices running version 24H2.

The enablement package simply flips a switch to unlock these features without a full OS reinstall.

Both versions 24H2 and 25H2 share the same servicing branch, ensuring that monthly quality updates and security patches delivered via Windows Update will continue uninterrupted once you install the enablement package.

Insiders in the Release Preview Channel can access the update through the “seeker” experience under Settings > Windows Update—look for “Feature update to Windows 11, version 25H2” and select Download and install.

powershell# Example: Check for eKB update
Get-WindowsUpdate -Classification FeaturePack -Restart

For full hardware requirements, refer to the official documentation on Windows 11 requirements.

Feature Removals and Enterprise Controls

While version 25H2 introduces many enhancements, it also removes legacy components to streamline the operating system:

• PowerShell 2.0 and the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) have been deprecated and removed.
• The removal of these components helps reduce the OS footprint and encourages migration to modern management tools such as PowerShell 7+ and Windows PowerShell Modules.

For commercial and Enterprise/Education customers, version 25H2 enables IT administrators to remove select pre-installed Microsoft Store apps via Group Policy or MDM CSP:

xml<!-- Example: MDM CSP URI to remove built-in Store apps -->
<Configuration>
  <AppRemoval>
    <PackageFamilyName>Microsoft.GetHelp_*</PackageFamilyName>
  </AppRemoval>
</Configuration>

Visit Microsoft’s guidance on app removal policies to customize deployments per organizational needs.

Availability and Deployment Options

Release Preview Channel insiders can install version 25H2 immediately if their PCs meet all requirements.

After installation, devices will continue to receive monthly cumulative updates via Windows Update. Commercial customers enrolled in the Windows Insider Program for Business have additional deployment paths:

• Windows Update for Business (WUfB) and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) for centralized management.
• Azure Marketplace images of version 25H2 will be available later today.
• ISOs for clean installs and offline deployment will be posted next week on the Windows Insider ISO download page.

For step-by-step deployment instructions using WUfB, WSUS, or Azure Marketplace, refer to the Windows deployment documentation.

Should any issues arise during your evaluation, IT admins can request assistance through the Microsoft Support portal.

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