Releasing Windows 11, version 25H2 to the Release Preview Channel

[Brandon LeBlanc]

Hello Windows Insiders! Today, we are making this year’s annual feature update Windows 11, version 25H2 (Build 26200.5074) available in the Release Preview Channel for customers to preview ahead of general availability later this calendar year. Windows 11, version 25H2 will be delivered as an enablement package (eKB). This means that Windows 11, version 24H2 and version 25H2 use a shared servicing branch. It also means that they also share the same new features and enhancements delivered through our continuous innovation efforts. Windows 11, version 25H2 also includes some feature removals such as PowerShell 2.0 and Windows Management Instrumentation command-line (WMIC). And for our commercial customers, Windows 11, version 25H2 includes the ability for IT admins to remove select pre-installed Microsoft Store apps via Group Policy/MDM CSP on Enterprise/EDU devices. For more details on Windows 11, version 25H2, see this blog post. [caption id="attachment_178192" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Windows 11, version 25H2 shown as available as an optional update highlighted in a red box.[/caption] Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel can install Windows 11, version 25H2 via our “seeker” experience in Windows Update. This means if you are an Insider currently in the Release Preview Channel on a PC that meets the Windows 11 hardware requirements, you can go to Settings and Windows Update and choose to download and install Windows 11, version 25H2 if you want. Once you update your PC to Windows 11, version 25H2, you will continue to automatically receive new servicing updates through Windows Update (the typical monthly update process). For instructions on how to join the Windows Insider Program and join your PC to the Release Preview Channel, click here. Commercial* customers enrolled in the Windows Insider Program for Business can begin validating Windows 11, version 25H2 on PCs in their organizations. For these customers, the Windows 11, version 25H2 is available through Windows Update for Business (WUfB) and Windows Server Update Service (WSUS). Azure Marketplace will be available later today. You can learn more about deploying pre-release feature updates using these deployment methods here. Should any issues arise, IT admins in organizations deploying Release Preview updates can request Microsoft Support. And finally – ISOs will be available for download for Windows 11, version 25H2 via the Windows Insider ISO download page next week. Thanks, Windows Insider Program Team *We consider a device a commercial device if it is not running the Windows 11 Home edition AND is being managed by an IT administrator (whether via Microsoft Endpoint Manager or other management solution) or has a volume license key or commercial ID or is joined to a domain.

Source: Releasing Windows 11, version 25H2 to the Release Preview Channel

 

[ForgottenSeer 114717]

Microsoft's Insider Programs for all of its products is dumb #####ery, plain and simple. The documentation team responsible for explaining what is and what is not, what channels are available at any given time, other issues, and so on - that all matter to users (those that are people) - is dismally incomplete. Even "Known Issues" aren't accurately documented and made available, if at all.

All anyone does by enrolling in ANY Insider Program and using the updates is exposing themselves to big issues and regret.

The entire intent of Windows Insider programs is to use users - both informed & experience and the unwitting - as guinea pig test lab animals. Push out Windows Insider builds that are the equivalent of putting acid in peoples' eyes. Microsoft benefits and users suffer.

I have little respect for Microsoft, but it holds the entire world hostage - mostly through Office programs and as a gaming platform.

 

[Sorrento]

I agree, I used insider builds for some time but eventually apart from getting a few wallpapers nothing was gained & an unstable system was the main result - I understand some users like to be the first to get exciting new features but they often don't come to fruition anyway, of course MS need people to test try new ideas but maybe giving guinea pigs something for it might be an idea? - No longer for me, though MS seems to feel I'm still part of it & receive the emails.

 

[Marko :)]

I agree, I used insider builds for some time but eventually apart from getting a few wallpapers nothing was gained & an unstable system was the main result - I understand some users like to be the first to get exciting new features but they often don't come to fruition anyway, of course MS need people to test try new ideas but maybe giving guinea pigs something for it might be an idea? - No longer for me, though MS seems to feel I'm still part of it & receive the emails.

Nothing in a life is free. Want me to test your software? Pay up! Otherwise, no thanks!

 

[Sorrento]

Its not as if MS software is free or open source, I'm often happy to try out with the aim of improving free & open source projects, I actually paid a good price for my 11 Pro license & as my wife & others use 365 which is far from free & I have to say is at times more unstable than one of my sister-in-laws which is a big statement to make - Give something in return Brandon LeBlanc if you wish the likes of me to test your commercial software rather that it seemingly now being a great privilege to do this for you (MS) - Again my 50 pence worth this morning.