01/09/2025
Releasing Windows 11, version 25H2 to the Release Preview Channel
Written By
Windows Insider Program Team
published
August 29, 2025
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.
Windows 11, version 25H2 shown as available as an optional update highlighted in a red box.
Windows 11, version 25H2 shown as available as an optional update highlighted in a red box.
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.
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